We're going to hear from Duke Tobin in January for the first time, and fans are eager to hear what the Bengals' director of player personnel has to say. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down what they're hoping to learn from Tobin's presser, and what it means that Zac Taylor and the Cincinnati Bengals will be facing off with new head coaches across the division after the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns moved on from their head coaches.

With Bengals President Mike Brown releasing a statement saying Zac Taylor and Duke Tobin will both be returning in 2026, it's time for Zac Taylor to do what he should have done a long time ago: defer play calling duties. Alex Frank, Jake Liscow, and Art Valero discuss why this could make Zac Taylor a better head coach, and, as a result, the defense possibly better in 2026. Mike Brown said the Bengals are going to take a hard look at EVERYTHING, and Zac relinquishing play-calling may be what enables the Bengals to be better situationally. Zac Taylor said yesterday that the Bengals are going to run it back with their coaching staff. Fans are not happy, but was it the RIGHT decision? The guys discuss if running it back is what will help the young defensive players continue to develop. Cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt is sentenced to five days in jail after pleading guilty to traffic charges from an incident in September. Does this have an impact on his future with the Bengals? Bengals Director of Players Personnel Duke Tobin will be speaking to the media Friday at 1:00. What could come of it? The guys discuss what could happen Sunday when the much-maligned "de facto general manager" speaks on Friday. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rocket Money Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDON. DripDrop Right now, DripDrop is offering podcast listeners 20% off your first order. Go to http://dripdrop.com and use promo code lockedonnfl. Ultimate QB Ultimate QB is totally free to play, has no ads, and works 100% offline — perfect for when you want to sneak in a quick game or two on the go. Just head over to http://ULTIMATE-QB.COM. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. So before tip-off, check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. A little basketball, a little action, and a whole lot of Friday energy. PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LO... Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. Zocdoc Stop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need. Go to http://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnfl to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Cincinnati Bengals right tackle Amarius Mims showed off his development in the home stretch of the 2025 season, and looks like a star in the making for a team that has desperately been looking for young cornerstones on the offensive line. Jake Liscow and Mike Santagata break down Mims' progress this season in our final film review of the year, along with expectations for offensive line running mate Dylan Fairchild as he wraps up his rookie season. Plus, we dive into what the future holds for defensive rookies Demetrius Knight, Barrett Carter, and Shemar Stewart, as all three must find ways to evolve into reliable and consistent starters in 2026.

Cincinnati Bengals owner Mike Brown made it official on Monday: Zac Taylor and Duke Tobin aren't going anywhere. Is it the right decision? James Rapien and Jake Liscow read Brown's statement, react to the news and explain why the Bengals' decision to make Tobin available in a press conference setting is noteworthy. They also discuss Brown's decision and why this should be a make-or-break season for Taylor and Tobin.

Sunday's game at Paycor Stadium was emblematic of the entire 2025 Bengals Season. Even worse, this season ended with a loss to the Cleveland Browns. Alex Frank and Art Valero discuss the atrocities that unfolded in Cincinnati and how this better result in major changes. No matter how bad a season is, this was a terrible way for it to end. The Bengals' defense did play well, but not when it counted. Are we worried about Joe Burrow throwing three pick sixes in five weeks? How much should we worry about Evan McPherson this offseason? Finally, Alex includes the show with a message to the Bengals front office, while referencing a classic 80's rock song. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rocket Money Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDON. DripDrop Right now, DripDrop is offering podcast listeners 20% off your first order. Go to http://dripdrop.com and use promo code lockedonnfl. Ultimate QB Ultimate QB is totally free to play, has no ads, and works 100% offline — perfect for when you want to sneak in a quick game or two on the go. Just head over to http://ULTIMATE-QB.COM. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. So before tip-off, check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. A little basketball, a little action, and a whole lot of Friday energy. PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LO... Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. Zocdoc Stop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need. Go to http://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnfl to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4

The Cincinnati Bengals collapsed in their season finale as turnovers and missed opportunities led to a 20-18 loss to the Cleveland Browns. And with plans to run it back with Zac Taylor, off season decisions are as important as ever - and Joe Burrow made sure everyone knew that in his final press conference of the season. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down it all down after another brutal loss, highlighting the crucial off season needs and how the Bengals' draft position changed with Week 18 results. Will Bengals management rise to the challenge after a 6-11 finish?

Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase were both adamant that changes need to be made within the Bengals' organization after three straight seasons of missing the Playoffs. Alex Frank, Mike Santagana, and Art Valero discuss how much weight these comments carry and if the Bengals front office will act upon their stars making their voices heard this week. The Bengals close the 2025 season against the Cleveland Browns Sunday, with Myles Garrett going for the NFL sack record. The guys discuss what makes Garrett so dangerous against Burrow and how the Bengals' offensive line can shut out Garrett and prevent him from breaking the sack record. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Aura Frames For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. FanDuel If you want to be right in the middle of the action this season, visit FanDuel.com and place your NFL live bets all season long. PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LO... Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Cincinnati Bengals can end a forgettable season on a high note against the Cleveland Browns this weekend. Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins will face off against Myles Garrett chasing the sack record and one of the best defenses in the NFL, and if they can put on a show, they'll have confidence in their offensive design for 2026. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down the game’s most intriguing storylines, from offensive line improvement and AFC North rivalries to draft positioning and potential roster upgrades.

The Cincinnati Bengals and Joe Burrow are preparing to face Myles Garrett as he pursues the NFL sack record—will he break the record in Week 18? The Battle of Ohio takes center stage with only pride and records on the line. James Rapien and Speaker German break down the top storylines: Garrett’s pursuit of greatness, the Bengals offense’s recent dominance with Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins playing together, and looming coaching decisions for both franchises. Key topics include Browns’ elite defense vs. Bengals’ revamped offensive line and Shedeur Sanders’ future in Cleveland. Can the Bengals close the season on a high note?

The Cincinnati Bengals are expected to bring back head coach Zac Taylor and Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin next season. Should they? Jake Liscow and James Rapien answer that question with in-depth analysis of Taylor's tenure and the overall performance of the team. They also talk about the front office, their process in free agency, the NFL Draft, how ownership is involved and so much more! The guys close the show by reacting to Al Golden's recent comments about veteran safety Geno Stone, that weren't necessarily the endorsement they seemed to be.

The Cincinnati Bengals put together their strongest defensive performance of the year, and that includes rookie linebackers Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight Jr., while cornerbacks Dax Hill, and DJ Turner continued to show they're building block players. How much of that performance gives real hope for the future? Jake Liscow and Mike Santagata break down what's worth buying on defense, including Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart's outings. Plus, Amarius Mims and Dylan Fairchild are showing they're the future on the Bengals' offensive line, which helped enable another awesome day from Joe Burrow, Chase Brown, and the Bengals' offense.

For the first time since Weeks 1 and 2, the Bengals have won consecutive games. Not only that, but their defense is starting to make an impact. Alex Frank, Mike Santagana, and Art Valero break down the Bengals' blowout win over the Cardinals and how their defense continues its late-season ascension. How does their performance impact the plan for the offseason? On the other side, Ja'Marr Chase finally got in the end zone for the first time since Week 7. Just how great is Chase? The guys discuss if he's the best wide receiver in Bengals' history and what makes him great. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Aura Frames For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. FanDuel If you want to be right in the middle of the action this season, visit FanDuel.com and place your NFL live bets all season long. PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LO... Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Bengals dominated the Arizona Cardinals as you'd expect them to, with starters once again taking the 4th quarter off. That's the standard for the Bengals if they're playing their starters and bringing this coaching staff back. But it was a fun-filled game nonetheless, and Jake and James break down the highlights including two touchdowns a piece for Ja'Marr Chase and Chase Brown, an explosive play for Cody Ford, Shemar Stewart's first sack, a standout coverage game from Dax Hill, and a strong overall effort from the defense.

The Cincinnati Bengals used their first two draft picks in 2023 on defensive players Myles Murphy and DJ Turner. It may have taken longer than they had hoped, but both of them have finally taken off and look like players the Bengals' defense can build around. Alex Frank, Jake Liscow, and Art Valero discuss how the Bengals should prioritize insuring they are both on the roster long-term and how much the Bengals can build their defense around them. With the Arizona Cardinals coming to town on Sunday, it will be another test for the Bengals' young defense facing Cardinals' tight end Trey McBride. Art explains how the Bengals can limit McBride's ability to take over the game and destroy the Bengals' defense in the middle of the field. Bengals' fans don't like the San Francisco 49ers because they have beaten them twice in the Super Bowl. But, Alex and Art discuss the number of lessons that the Bengals can learn from them with the season they are having despite injuries and missed draft picks. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Aura Frames For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. FanDuel If you want to be right in the middle of the action this season, visit FanDuel.com and place your NFL live bets all season long. PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LO... Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Even though the Cincinnati Bengals aren't playing for playoff implications, late season development for young players like Myles Murphy, Shemar Stewart, Amarius Mims, and Dylan Fairchild are paramount. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down what really matters for the Bengals as they host the Arizona Cardinals, including why the team needs to be careful about buying into their defensive "progress" late in the season, and discuss draft pick status as the season winds down.

Playoff hopes are gone, but fireworks could be on deck as the Cincinnati Bengals and Arizona Cardinals square off in a high-octane Week 17 battle. Can Joe Burrow torch the Cardinals’ battered secondary? Will Jacoby Brissett keep pace with Trey McBride and Michael Wilson? James Rapien and Locked On Cardinals host Alex Clancy break down quarterback futures, key defensive concerns, and receiving studs Tee Higgins, Ja'Marr Chase, McBride, Wilson, and Marvin Harrison Jr. The guys also dive into Zac Taylor’s strategy, the Bengals’ urgent offseason needs, and whether injuries should spare Jonathan Gannon’s job.

The Cincinnati Bengals dismantled the Miami Dolphins on Sunday as Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins reignite the offense. Jake Liscow and film expert Mike Santagata examine the Bengals’ revitalized play-calling, the impact of improved offensive line performance led by Amarius Mims and Dalton Risner, and Chase Brown's role as a versatile complementary weapon. Key discussion points include Myles Murphy’s defensive breakout, lingering issues at linebacker and safety, and why the Bengals’ offseason priorities have gotten clearer and clearer over the course of the season.

After a tumultuous two weeks in which some national sports media members tried to spin narratives about Joe Burrow's future in Cincinnati, the Bengals franchise quarterback reminded everyone why he is just that in a prolific bounce-back performance. Alex Frank, Mike Santagana, and Art Valero break down Burrow's prolific day in South Florida as the Bengals beat the Dolphins and snap a two-game losing streak. Winning matters all the time, even in the situation the Bengals are in. The squad discusses what positives the Bengals can build on with this win in the final two games of the regular season and going into 2026. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Aura Frames For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. FanDuel If you want to be right in the middle of the action this season, visit FanDuel.com and place your NFL live bets all season long. PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LO... Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNFL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals had some fun in Miami, and takeaways led to a runaway victory as Joe Burrow threw for 4 touchdown passes and the Bengals turned in a ton of highlight plays. Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down what matters after a game the Bengals dominated despite being eliminated from playoff contention, including the ramifications for future Bengals teams.

Another Joe Burrow presser has ramped up pressure on the Cincinnati Bengals' front office and ignited more speculation about his future in Cincinnati if the Bengals don't make serious changes. Will the Bengals finally get creative and overhaul their defensive roster to secure long-term success with Burrow, Tee Higgins, and Ja'Marr Chase? Jake Liscow and James Rapien break down Burrow’s headline-grabbing presser, discuss Zac Taylor’s contract status, and analyze the impact of recent failed free-agent classes on draft strategy.