The Cincinnati Bengals suffered a disappointing 20-17 loss to the Chicago Bears, revealing three key takeaways about the team's current state:

1. Zac Taylor's Job Security Concerns

• Taylor's record falls to 7-26-1 as head coach
• Players expressed frustration with conservative playcalling
• Both Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase criticized the late-game offensive adjustments
• Nagy outcoached Taylor despite having his own job security concerns

2. Offensive Line Issues Persist

• Joe Burrow has taken 9 sacks in two games (second-most in NFL)
• Protection remains inadequate following Burrow's season-ending injury last year
• Predictable playcalling makes blocking more challenging
• Jackson Carman could provide upgrade over struggling Xavier Su'a-Filo at right guard

3. Defense Shows Promise

• Strong performance against both run and pass
• Allowing only 3.4 yards per carry (6th best in NFL)
• On pace for 51 sacks this season (compared to 17 in 2020)
• Key additions Trey Hendrickson and Larry Ogunjobi making immediate impact
• Young linebackers showing improvement, especially Logan Wilson
• Defense appears significantly improved from 2020

The defense's progress offers hope, but offensive struggles under Taylor's leadership remain a serious concern as the team prepares to face the Steelers in Week 3.

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