Some fans show patience with Lewis' plan

A little mid-week e-mail from Enquirer readers.

Question, from Kevin from Fort Mitchell: I'm not worried yet. Cincinnati especially
doesn't deserve this long of a drought in terms of winning. But I figured that we could judge
what Marvin is doing at the end of his second season. This year should have been writen off by
Bengal fans the day Marvin was hired. It takes time. Two years I can take. Even three. But
something has to show before the end of this season.

Answer: This is clearly a rebuilding year for a number of reasons. The organization is
committed to Lewis and should let him continue to follow his plan.

Question, from Jim in Batesville: How does a concussion keep a player out of as many
games as Rogers Beckett?

Answer: Not one. Three. Beckett had concussions against Atlanta in the preseason and then
against the Jets and Steelers. He wants to play. There is, unfortunately, a pattern here. The
team and Beckett should be congratulated for moving ahead cautiously.

Question, from R.W. in Covington: I think the two problems that the Bengals have right
now are the defensive front four and the lack of depth overall on the team. They have to play
young guys because they are trying to rework the team. I do have a question: What was Lewis'
record his first two years in Baltimore, defensive rankings?

Answer: Lewis was Baltimore's defensive coordinator for the Ravens from 1996-2001. In
1996, the Ravens finished 30th (last) in total defense at 368.1 yards a game. They were 23rd in rush defense and 30th in pass defense.

In 1997, the Ravens improved to 25th in total defense, 10th in rush defense and 28th in pass defense.