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The Cincinnati Bengals sat most starters in the Week 3 preseason win over the Los Angeles Rams.
Only two roster battles took center stage during the exhibition: The one at left guard and the one at punter.
Not exactly the most dramatic of situations, but two spots that could play a big role in quite a few games in 2022.
Here’s a look at some brief thoughts, recaps and numbers to know.
Quick Hits
— Jackson Carman got the start over rookie Cordell Volson at left guard. That might merely be a hint the team has seen enough from Volson, who entering Saturday had many more snaps than Carman in preseason games.
— Drue Chrisman and Kevin Huber alternated punts on the night in what is the final battle for the job.
— First-round rookie Dax Hill didn’t play as the team saved all of its starters for Week 1. Hill will rotate in right away in the base defense.
— Wideout Kwamie Lassiter had an outside chance at the final roster, pending his special teams play. A muffed punt Saturday night might mean he’s locked into the practice squad.
— Most of the backup offensive line looked rough again, which again promotes the idea they’ll be looking for help after cuts or via trade.
— Thaddeus Moss had a really bad drop late that could come up in cut decisions.
— Undrafted rookie CB Allan George might just have himself a roster spot after a strong summer, especially with injuries to Cam Taylor-Britt and Eli Apple.
Key Stat
9 for 93: The numbers for wideout Trenton Irwin, whose special teams versatilty was already a boon before this showing.
Game Balls
WR Kendric Pryor: Besides Irwin, the undrafted Pryor had a strong night with five catches for 65 yards.
LB Tegray Scales: Scales was in on a turnover in the second half and finished with seven tackles.
Top Takeaway
Cutdown time: There won’t be anything too shocking about final cuts. It seems clear Volson has the job at left guard and Chrisman the job at punter, perhaps making the veteran Kevin Huber the most notable release.
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