The Bengals running game

[76Texan]

Is a different twist of the ZBS.

They utilize the ZBS concept, but mix up the usual stables of running plays that we see with the Texans with some counters, misdirections.

Sometimes, they also set it up so that it looks like a run, but they will run off of the formation; and that is besides the normal draw play.

Also, Benson actively looks for the cut back lane, the one thing I'd like to see Slaton do more often.

[CloakNNNdagger]

Benson is a chugger who can consistently churn short yardage out........he isn't the type of runner who hits the "home run" (unless maybe against the Texans). My concern is that we see our defense constantly stacking the box like in the Raiders game despite the fact that the Bengals don't have T. Jackson throwing at us. We have been "stubborn" like that too many time in the past.

[76Texan]

It would be good if we emphasize our gap 8 defense, making sure that the OLB and the SS don't overpursue.

That ought to be the requirement in stopping Benson, for as you said, he's not a homerun hitter.

It would be nice if either Okoye or Okam can penetrate up the middle as well.
That will make it more difficult for him to take a good angle cut.

[76Texan]

On their misdirection play, the line will fire off to one side, but the FB and Benson will go the other direction.

On the counter play, the FB will go one way, and Benson the other.

The key is for our LBs/SS to maintain their gap assignment, and not to overpursue.
And the CBs must be ready to help.

[76Texan]

On the fake pass, their O-line will take steps back as if they are to pass-pro.
When the DE rush to the outside, Benson will take the ball and go up inside the tackle.

[76Texan]

In some instance, they will line up in an odd-looking I formation.

The TE will motion to one side and line up just outside and behind the tackle.

The FB will line up behind him, and Benson will line up off to one side of the QB, closer to the FB and TE.

If the Defense load the strong side to counter, Benson will run to the weak side.

[76Texan]

In all of these formation, penetration up the middle is important.
If they pass, the NT/DT will be in good position to rush.
If they run all these different plays, the NT/DT will be in good position to make it harder for Benson.
Since he's not the quickest guy to the hole (not that he's slow), our guys have a little better chance and a tiny tad little more time to penetrate.