... a disappointing season in which they finished with a 4-11-1 record, many analysts were predicting the 2009 Cincinnati Bengals as a sleeper team, and to breakout as playoff contenders.

Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer was returning after missing most of the 2008 season with an elbow injury. Cedric Benson finished last season on a strong note, averaging 118 yards rushing the final three games. Chad Ochocinco was looking to recover from his worst season since his rookie year after hauling in just 53 receptions for 540 yards, and four touchdowns.

Through the first five weeks of the 2009 sea...

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