Scribe Session 12.29: Reflections from the road

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner record their first mobile podcast of the season as they come to you from the front seats of a Nissan Sentra on their drive back from the Bengals 27-17 loss at Heinz Field.

Despite working until 3:30 a.m. and hitting road early in the day, still plenty to react to in the first of two podcasts this week as the Bengals take aim at their first playoff victory since 1990.

We go into what to expect from Andy Dalton, what's wrong (if anything) with A.J. Green, the difference between this group that of one year ago as well as background of fallout in the locker room from Sunday's loss.

Also, a man in a mini-van going 53 mph eating a cheeseburger draws Skinny's anger, we discuss the best I-71 landmarks and avoid bringing in any cameos by state law enforcement officials.

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in. Look for our second podcast of the week to run live on the web site this Thursday and be archived online soon after.

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Scribe Session 12.23: The New World

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner take to a new format with a live, interactive version of the podcast to open up the conversation after the season-changing victory against Denver on Monday Night Football. 

Hear from Adam Jones as well as dig into our debate about how much the win against the Broncos should make believers  in a playoff run, analyzing Andy Dalton, the Bengals MVP, what would be the ideal playoff scenrio and the implications of the A.J. Green injury.

Plus, we take 10 minutes to field Twitter questions, including some that include people drawing faces on their thumbs at 6 a.m, then over up a Disney influence to truly get the heart of the evolution of the Bengals and this podcast. 

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 12.16: Playoffs Start Now

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner briefly recap the demolition of Johnny Football and look forward to the playoff run which begins now for the Bengals. 

You hear from defensive coordinator Paul Guenther as we debate if the defense has just struggled against quality or deals with self-imposed consistency issues. 

Also, we analyze the running game as the identity of a playoff run and fallout from Jermaine Gresham's postgame beef. 

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 12.9: Assessing the wreckage

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner assess the new outlook of the Bengals and their playoff picture following the 42-21 loss and fourth-quarter ruination against the Steelers. You hear from defensive coordinator Paul Guenther following the nightmarish final quarter in which the team gave up 229 yards of offense. Also, we debate the big-picture fallout should December spiral and if there's reason to believe this team can still make a run, mainly reflecting on the dominating play of A.J. Green over the last four months. We break out another edition of the Skinny old guy moment of the week, peruse the thesaurus and apologize to Fred from Delhi. As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 12.2: The challenge of Marvin Lewis

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner break down the Bengals completion of a three-game road win streak and look ahead at the hopes of December.

We hear from sick Andy Dalton, optimistic George Iloka and versatile Clint Boling then delve deeper into topics of how to win with Marvin Lewis and Dalton as the most treacherous month of the season is upon the Bengals.

Also, harrowing stories of near-death along with the relevance of diapers and tricycles.

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 11.25: Tracking the magic number

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner break down the Bengals in preparation for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay and assessing the developments from Sunday's win against Houston.

You hear from defensive coordinator Paul Guenther, special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons and head coach Marvin Lewis.

We delve into the topic of the Bengals defense, what was learned about Giovani Bernard/Jeremy Hill and Lewis' comments about fans not showing up on time to games.

Also, we discuss unhealthy Thanksgiving addictions, prediction failures and why Schoolhouse Rock should be playing in the Bengals locker room this week.

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 11.18: Return of the swagger

You hear from wide receiver A.J. Green about the words he hadn't heard in a long time as well as defensive coordinator Paul Guenther regarding the injection of attitude and run defense supplied at linebacker that could bring back the stout Bengals defense of earlier days. 

Also, Skinny and I discuss the Andy Dalton roller coaster, the new most hated man in the NFL and my ability to become the first person to spend two days in New Orleans without a hangover, 

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 11.11: The Game Changer

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner look forward at the dramatically different feel surrounding the Bengals after the Browns laid a 24-3 beatdown at Paul Brown Stadium on Thursday.

You hear from cornerback Terence Newman about why these blowouts keep recurring and from offensive coordinator Hue Jackson regarding how to pull Andy Dalton from the abyss of 2.0.

Also, Skinny and I discuss Dalton vs. the defense in terms of most concerning going forward, the Bengals poor response to adversity and it's time to hop on the soapbox for a rant on why the Bengals future has come into clearer, gloomy focus.

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 11.4: Midpoint Assessment

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner take stock of where the Bengals stand at the midway point in the season following a 33-23 victory against Jacksonville.

In a special final 30 minutes of the podcast we break down the wall once again and welcome Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com into the roundtable and debate the midseason Bengals awards for MVP, best assistant coach, best storyline, rookie of the year and the most important aspect of the final eight games.

In the first 30 minutes Skinny and I talk about what will happen now to Jeremy Hill when Giovani Bernard returns from injury as well as handicapping the AFC North heading down the stretch.

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 10.28: Standing their ground

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner reflect on the wild weekend at Paul Brown Stadium following the Bengals dramatic 27-24 victory against Baltimore. 

You hear from offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth and head coach Marvin Lewis as the team enjoys a change in momentum with their first victory in over a month.

We discuss the offensive pass interference penalty and subsequent reaction, the resounding belief in Andy Dalton, the Mohamed Sanu phenomenon, rise of the secondary and run through how the current injuries should play out. 

Also, we rate the gifts of the three wisemen and Skinny returns to the tell tales of the 70s. 

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 10.21: Arriving at a Crossroads

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner sift through the wreckage of the Bengals 27-0 shellacking up I-74 in indianapolis. .

You hear from offensive coordinator Hue Jackson, offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth and Marvin Lewis as the Bengals try to figure out how to piece the puzzle back together with a suddenly enormous game taking place at Paul Brown Stadium this weekend against surging Baltimore.

We discuss if this team has a fatal flaw, if getting healthy could be enough, trends of the offensive clunker, A.J. Green's playing status and why a cloud hangs over the status of Vontaze Burfict.

Also, we bring a few stories from the road and we break out a classic from the late 90s for this critical juncture in the season.

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 10.14: It just got weird

Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner discuss a Bengals season that took an odd turn following the 37-37 tie and the podcast follows suit.

You hear from Mike Nugent, offensive coordinator Hue Jackson and angry Panthers tight end Greg Olsen, as well as insight from inside the locker room following a day few people will forget or quite know how to feel about at PBS.

We discuss Nugent's future, the struggling defense, Vontaze Burfict's Kurt Angle impression, the offensive magic and biggest injury concerns.

Meanwhile, Skinny brings back another old man moment, we say hello to a live audience and in an embarrassing display, Paul pays up on an embarrassment bet at the conclusion of the podcast being forced to sing a sweet 70s ballad. Indeed, it gets weird.

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 10.7: Fresh adversity

Issues galore to discuss as the Bengals come off their first loss of the season at New England. 

We delve into the defense dealing with adversity for the first time all year, the concept A.J. Green has received a pass by critics in big games, fans constant displeasure with Brandon Tate and reflecting on those who have already jumped off the bandwagon. 

You hear from defensive coordinator Paul Guenther, Green, Marvin Lewis and safety George Iloka. 

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.

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Scribe Session 9.30: Bye Week Perspective

he Bengals return from bye week, so Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner back away and take stock of the new reality looking over the big picture of the season four weeks in. 

We discuss concerns with the defensive line pass rush, Dalton's struggles in the spotlight, if fans should believe should the Bengals beat New England, debate if the schedule looks easier or harder now and delve deeper into the phenomenon of the Devon Still story. 

Also, no old guy moment of the week, but we do have a special appearance from late Georgia legend Larry Munson and Skinny admits to his rapping prowess. 

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.
If you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout, just download/subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.
The best way to follow is to listen in the podcast section of our must-have Bengals app.
To download the app, search for "Cincinnati.com" in the iTunes app store, or here's a direct link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/www2.cincinnati.com-bengals-football/id390749633?mt=8
For android, download our Bengals app in Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yinzcam.nfl.bengals&hl=en
If you would like to listen you can also head over here: http://enqbengals.podomatic.com/entry/2014-09-23T07_51_51-07_00

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Scribe Session 9.23: Best in the NFL?

The Bengals are 3-0 entering the bye week so Bengals beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner discuss the most dominant team in football through three weeks.
We ask the question if the Bengals are the best team in the NFL and are they the best Bengals team since 1988, as Paul Daugherty contended this week. We offer concerns going forward as well as debating how the return of injured players will affect the dynamic.
Hear from Hue Jackson about his imaginative play-calling and how he plans on using Marvin Jones when he returns against New England and also hear from Jones himself in regards to how fast he believes he can return to the 10-touchdown receiver he was last season.
Also, Skinny harkens back to 1976, we break out Puddy from Seinfeld and chances increase I will be forced to sing Air Supply.
As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.
If you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout, just download/subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.
The best way to follow is to listen in the podcast section of our must-have Bengals app.
To download the app, search for "Cincinnati.com" in the iTunes app store, or here's a direct link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/www2.cincinnati.com-bengals-football/id390749633?mt=8
For android, download our Bengals app in Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yinzcam.nfl.bengals&hl=en
If you would like to listen you can also head over here: http://enqbengals.podomatic.com/entry/2014-09-23T07_51_51-07_00

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Scribe Session 9.16: Optimism grows

With a 2-0 start in the books, beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner discuss all the developments from this weekend's 24-10 victory against Atlanta.

You hear from Andy Dalton and defensive coordinator Paul Guenther on the quarterback's altered philosophy and the coordinator's first signature shutdown against Atlanta's high-octane passing game.

Skinny and I delve into the versatility shown in Hue Jackson's offense, how many carries is too many for Giovani Bernard, the defense taking shape and all injury concerns from Vontaze Burfict's head to A.J. Green's toe.

Also, we discussed press conference guinea pigs, Travis Tritt and Skinny's old guy moment of the week harkens back to his college days.

As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.
If you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.
The best way to follow is to listen in the podcast section of our must-have Bengals app.
To download the app, search for "Cincinnati.com" in the iTunes app store, or here's a direct link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/www2.cincinnati.com-bengals-football/id390749633?mt=8
For android, download our Bengals app in Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yinzcam.nfl.bengals&hl=en
If you would like to listen you can also head over here: http://enqbengals.podomatic.com/entry/2014-09-09T09_38_53-07_00
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Scribe Session 9.9: One down, 15 to go

With the win in Baltimore in the books beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner discuss all the developments from this weekend's 23-16 Bengals victory against the Ravens.
You hear from Andrew Whitworth on the enormity of how the Bengals won, Adam Jones on his on-field conversation with Steve Smith Sr., and Hue Jackson on his unpredictable offense and the future split of Giovani Bernard/Jeremy Hill.
Skinny and I delve into the injuries of the weekend, implications of the unique new attack, review Paul Guenther and offer Bengals fantasy football advice.
Also, we talk about sarsaparilla, kindness to troubleshooting airplane reps and unveil our new theme music for the "Skinny Dates Himself Moment Of The Week."
As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every Tuesday throughout the season, so lock it in.
If you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.
The best way to follow is to listen in the podcast section of our must-have Bengals app.
To download the app, search for "Cincinnati.com" in the iTunes app store, or here's a direct link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/www2.cincinnati.com-bengals-football/id390749633?mt=8
For android, download our Bengals app in Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yinzcam.nfl.bengals&hl=en
If you would like to listen you can also head over here: http://enqbengals.podomatic.com/entry/2014-09-09T09_38_53-07_00
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Scribe Session 9.2: Season Preview Edition

A special edition of the podcast as we break out the season preview extravaganza.
Not only do Paul Dehner Jr. and Richard Skinner take a look at the construction of the roster, cuts and preview Baltimore, we usher in the first four-mic podcast roundtable of the year.
There, Paul, Skinny, Dan Hoard and Dave Lapham sit around and talk about the longview of the year. What they like, what concerns, who could break out and the always relevant question of if this is the year the Bengals finally win the elusive playoff game.
If you only want the roundtable, scroll forward to the 27-minute mark.
Dan takes credit for our impressive podcast setup, Lap -- not shockingly -- pounds the table multiple times and Skinny threatens public embarrassment.
Plus, you'll hear from Devon Still, Marquis Flowers and Sean Porter in reaction to news of their new roles with the team.
As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every week throughout the season, so lock it in.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.
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Scribe Session 8.27: Analyzing the defense

Following the third preseason game across country in Arizona Skinny and Paul take a closer look at the roster and issues at play with the Bengals defense.
After discussing the early round of cuts we delve into predictions for those who will make the roster following Saturday's purge to 53.
Meanwhile, we discuss where Cat Stevens would play if he toured Cincinnati, the possibility Skinny gets beat up next week and I get compared to Joey Votto for all the wrong reasons.
This is the second cut of this podcast, because the original first half of it where we talked about the Burfict contract debacle went to the great podcast studio in the sky since his deal was finally signed Wednesday. With the rest of this podcast we celebrate that segment's life, not its death.
As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every week throughout the season, so lock it in.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.

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Scribe Session 8.19: Analyzing the Offense

Following the second preseason game against New York Skinny and Paul reflect on begin to take on the formulation of the roster. This week the focus shines on the offense.
You hear from offensive coordinator Hue Jackson, offensive line coach Paul Alexander regarding his backing of rookie Russell Bodine as the starting center and from tight end Tyler Eifert on the frustrations of battling injury throughout this offseason.
Also, we go position by position analyzing the roster battles and how we think they will hash out.
Meanwhile, we have the latest "Skinny shows his age moment of the week," as well as brainstorming synonyms for dumpster fire in regards to the second half of preseason Game 2.
As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every week throughout the season, so lock it in.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.

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Scribe Session 8.12: KC fallout and fantasy feud launch

Following the first preseason game in Kansas City Skinny and Paul reflect on the fallout up and down the roster, but particularly the interesting storylines covering every member of the quarterback room.
You hear from offensive coordinator Hue Jackson, who reflects on the interesting night for his group and delves into specifics and hope for his running game going forward.
Also, we concoct our draft for the our Skinny/Dehner Fantasy Feud to help you gain insight on the Bengals for your fantasy draft and possibly help us with a few public embarrassment bets in the process.
If you are only interesting in the fantasy aspect it starts around the 45-minute mark.
As always, keep in mind we will be bringing you these podcasts every week throughout the season, so lock it in.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.

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Scribe Session 8.4: Dalton Deal Delirium

After a 12-hour day chock full of Andy Dalton breakdown, Richard Skinner and Paul Dehner Jr. put together this podcast to offer all you need to know about how it went down, what it means and other behind the scenes looks at the biggest day in the Bengals offseason agenda.
We let you hear from Mike Brown, Marvin Lewis, Dalton, Andrew Whitworth and Leon Hall as well as discuss the most interesting dynamics of the contract going forward. We also take a look at the opening of the preseason on Thursday.
Remember, we will be bringing you these podcasts every week throughout the season, so lock it in.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.

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Scribe Session 7.31: Reactions to Week 1

One week into camp Paul Dehner Jr., and Richard Skinner react to the camp intensity kicking up, realistic expectations for Geno Atkins and discuss players that have caught our eye during camp.
On this episode of Scribe Session presented by the Joseph Auto Group you wilil hear interviews with Wallace Gilberry, DL coach Jay Hayes, Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Lewis. Also, we take you inside the candid conversation with Devon Still discussing his daughter's fight with pediatric cancer.
Plus, judge how our fancy new equipment sounds.
We will be bringing you these podcasts every week throughout the season, so lock it in.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.

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Scribe Session 7.23: Training Camp Preview

The new season is upon us and so is the first podcast of the new season. Paul Dehner Jr., and Richard Skinner offer up discussion about Andy Dalton, Vontaze Burfict, Mike Brown and other elements of the new season in this training camp preview.
You'll hear interviews with Brown, Marvin Lewis and Paul Guenther, including Lewis picking up where he left off with my predecessor with a new edition of the railroad special for me.
Plus, we have a flashy new open and sponsorship from JosephAuto.com. Look at us!
We will be bringing you these podcasts every week throughout the season, so lock it in.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.

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Scribe Session Series: Joe Walter

The Scribe Session podcast series catching up with former Bengals from the 90s and early 2000s concludes this week with the sixth and final edition to see what they are up to now, hear stories from old days, opinions on what went wrong (and occasionally right) as well as the challenges in the changing landscape of post-football life.
This week I chat with offensive lineman Joe Walter. A 1985 Cincinnati draft pick he spent his entire 12-year career with the Bengals amassing 166 games played and 136 starts. He was a starter at guard for the 1988 AFC Championship team and hung around through the bottom falling out into the mid-90s.
These days he works as a Vice President at Forcht Bank in Kentucky.
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Adrian Ross (6.5.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Ashley Ambrose (6.12.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Tony McGee (6.19.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Akili Smith (6.26.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Lee Johnson (7.3.14)
Walter discusses his transition from football into the banking world, the reaction when Sam Wyche began installing his revolutionary offense and, of course, how he came up with the sandwich that bears his name at Izzy's.
Mostly notably though, Walter discusses why the back end of his career ended up shrouded with losses and the frustration and sadness watching those great teams from 80s quickly dismantled.
In answering a question many still ask today regarding Dave Shula, Walter offers when he believes the young, inexperienced head coach lost control of the team.

"He lost the team, I would say, from the get-go. The very first meeting that we had you had those (overhead projectors), he was sweating so bad and so nervous that everything was wiped off before you could see what it was. So right then you lose your guys because you see your head guy that nervous. What's that telling you? How's he going to run the club? What's he going to be like in a stressful situation? Dave was a great guy, a really good guy. He would talk to me quite a bit, call me up, have me come in the office, talk things through me, I was the old head. But there was no way he was going to win. He was done before he even got started."

Walter offers this and much more about Shula, suspicions the coaching staff was plotting against the head coach in his later years, the significance of this box score, discusses the good guys that graced the locker room -- and spills those who weren't so good. Regardless, a fantastic 30-minute look inside the transition from Super Bowl to super bad.
Keep an eye out next Thursday as the series will offer a best-of podcast for those of you slackers who haven't been paying attention. I'll pick out the best parts of each of the six throwback podcasts and splice them together for you. Clip Show!
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.

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Scribe Session Series: Lee Johnson

The Scribe Session podcast series catching up with former Bengals from the 90s and early 2000s continues with the fifth edition to see what they are up to now, hear stories from old days, opinions on what went wrong (and occasionally right) as well as the challenges in the changing landscape of post-football life.
This week I chat with punter Lee Johnson, he spanned nearly the entire life of The Lost Decade in his 11 seasons from 1988 to 1998, totaling 1,266 career punts. The 1985 selection of the Houston Oilers eventually rounded out his career with the New England Patriots and then enjoying a playoff run with the Eagles in 2002 at age 41.
These days he works as an Associate Athletic Director in charge of development at his alma mater BYU in Provo, Utah.
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Adrian Ross (6.5.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Ashley Ambrose (6.12.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Tony McGee (6.19.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Akili Smith (6.26.14)
Johnson discusses the feelings joining the Super Bowl team in the tail end of 1988, his record for longest punt in a Super Bowl which still stands, the disbelief in the Stanley Wilson story and his theory on why players struggle to deal with post-football life.
Mostly, though, Johnson discusses his time in Cincinnati, his theory on why he holds the record as the losingest player in NFL history and the details on his controversial dismissal over words stated postgame that irritated management to the point of cutting him the day after they were spoken.
Johnson still holds regret over what he said answering questions about the funk of the franchise in 1998 that led to this Paul Daugherty column.

"We played the Bengals three years later when I was with the Patriots and I met Mike and John Sawyer and some of the owners at the 50-yard line and apologized. Look, Mike was great to me and my family and just to think that I was released because of comments that I made that made me seem so ungrateful for the opportunity. What I loser I was to come across that way. I was answering questions in a way I thought were truthful answers, but not vengeance, not spiteful, not bitter."

Johnson went on to discuss the situation further later in the podcast noting he never did speak with Mike Brown about the tone of his comments:

"He didn't want any part of me. He pulled me out of a meeting. I think it was a ploy to do all they could do to embarrass me. They knew exactly what they were going to do in terms of how they were going to cut me. It was a team meeting started, they grab me and pull me and Jim Lippincott ... pulled me out and let me go. I never talked to Mike. He didn't want to know how I felt. I think he felt like I betrayed him. And he was really good to me. Really, really good to me. One day I'll run into him again and I'll give him a hug and he'll probably hit me (laughs). I'll go buy him some Montgomery ribs or something."

Keep an eye out next Thursday as the series continues with offensive lineman Joe Walter.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.

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Scribe Session Series: Akili Smith

The Scribe Session podcast series catching up with former Bengals from the 90s and early 2000s continues with the fourth edition to see what they are up to now, hear stories from old days, opinions on what went wrong (and occasionally right) as well as the challenges in the changing landscape of post-football life.
This week I chat with quarterback Akili Smith, a centerpiece of the The Lost Decade and third overall pick of the 1999 draft. Smith spent four seasons in Cincinnati going 3-14 as a starter, completing 46 percent of his passes with five touchdowns to 13 interceptions.
These days he helps run two football player preparation organizations, Akili Smith Training as well as Combine5 training and is a high school football coach in San Diego.
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Adrian Ross (6.5.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Ashley Ambrose (6.12.14)
Scribe Session Podcast Series: Tony McGee (6.19.14)
Smith discusses being depressed while with the Bengals, battling drinking and excessive partying in the offseason. These days he says he'll talk about anything -- and does -- from the parties to his biggest mistake to seeing Johnny Manziel make the exact same poor choices he did.
Mostly, though, Smith talks about taking responsibility for how his NFL career flopped. And how he changed from finger-pointing to growing up and accepting his own failure.

"Was just a realization about five, six years ago. At one point I said, I'm about to stop drinking, I'm about to get married, start a family and that type of stuff. I started doing some reading and trying to fix my mind before I ended up dead somewhere or in jail somewhere. It just clicked. Next thing you know I woke up and I'm looking in the mirror and saying my whole career is my fault. It's nobody's fault but my fault. Even if it didn't work out in Cincinnati if I would have kept my nose clean for four years in Cincinnati I could have possibly gone somewhere else and played for another team."

Smith went on to tell stories about his disastrous first season, the first time he realized he screwed up holding out and why he decided to include himself in the concussion lawsuit.
Clearly, Smith has turned a corner, and it shows with his honesty throughout the 35-minute podcast which includes moments like this discussing his bad offseason habits.

"At the time our leadership wasn't as strong as it needed to be. It wasn't where it needed to be as far as the leadership was concerned. We did have guys like Willie Anderson and Takeo Spikes. Sometimes I would listen to them then sometimes I flat out wouldn't listen because I was so depressed about my NFL career and the way that things had transpired."

Keep an eye out over the coming weeks as the series continues.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one.


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Scribe Session Series: Tony McGee

The Scribe Session podcast series catching up with former Bengals from the 90s and early 2000s continues with the third edition to see what they are up to now, hear stories from old days, opinions on what went wrong (and occasionally right) as well as the challenges in the changing landscape of post-football life.

This week I chat with tight end Tony McGee, who spent nine years in Cincinnati and two more in the NFL with the Giants and Cowboys.  He's currently the CEO of HNM Enterprises, a successful global logistics company with over 30 employees at the home office in Orlando and multiple locations, warehouses across the US.

He played 156 games with 322 receptions for 4,089 yards and 21 touchdowns, but by arriving in Cincinnati in 1993 never experienced a winning season or trip to the playoffs.

Beyond telling stories about his time as a player, McGee opens up about how he made one of the most successful transitions from football to the business world of anyone you will talk to from that era.

He also talks about frustrations in that despite that remarkable transition, valuable advice he could offer and a loyal nine-year career with the Bengals, the team has never invited him back once.

"Quite honestly, I can say I haven't been invited back to do anything or be a part of it or talk to the guys. There's been no outreach at all. And that's fine. At some point I will come to a game and buy my own ticket and take my daughter to a game just to show her where I used to play. It would be greatly appreciated if the team would reach out and put something together and invite us out. I know some teams have alumni functions and things like that, quite honeslty, I've never been invited to anything or heard anything. So, you just go on with your life."

Keep an eye out over the coming weeks as the series continues. Here are the previous two Lost Decade podcasts:

Adrian Ross (6.5)
Ashley Ambrose (6.12)

Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one. 

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Scribe Session Series: Ashley Ambrose

The Scribe Session podcast series catching up with former Bengals from the 90s and early 2000s continues with the second edition to see what they are up to now, hear stories from old days, opinions on what went wrong (and occasionally right) as well as the challenges in the changing landscape of post-football life.

This week I chat with former free agent splash and All-Pro cornerback Ashley Ambrose, now the defensive backs coach at the University of Idaho.

Ambrose put together a 13-year NFL career with his greatest season coming in 1996, his first in Cincinnati. He collected eight interceptions that year and went to the Pro Bowl but the season goes down as one of the most interesting in Bengals history.

Why would a top player on the free agent market come to Cincinnati at that time? What was the locker room like during Dave Shula's final days before a move to Bruce Coslet was promoted to head coach? What is the internal struggle like decided whether or not to pursue coaching once an NFL career ends? What do you tell kids today chasing an NFL dream about concerns of the league and how it's changed?

Answers to all those questions and much more as this series rolls on.

Keep an eye out over the coming weeks as a string of former players will join me to discuss life after football and stories from The Lost Decade. Next week will be former longtime Bengals tight end Tony McGee.

Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one. 

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Scribe Session Series: Adrian Ross

Scribe Session returns as we kick off the first in a special series that will take us up toward training camp in July. So often fans today complain about the frustrations rooting for a team that has made the playoff three consecutive years and four of the last five. How soon they forget what life used to be like around this franchise.

That's why I'm catching up with Bengals from 90s and early 2000s to see what they are up to now, stories from old days, opinions on what went wrong (and occasionally right) as well as the challenges of post-football life.

The series opens with former Bengals linebacker Adrian Ross. He spent six years with the team from 1998-2003 playing in 90 games with 34 starts, 127 tackles, three sacks and one memorable hairstyle.

Ross, now living in Sacramento as a sports agent, dishes on his real feelings about exactly why the Bengals could never get over the hump, how Marvin Lewis changed the culture, Akili Smith, Carl Pickens, Bruce Coslet and the stink of Spinney Field.

Keep an eye out over the coming weeks as a string of former players will join me to discuss life after football and stories from The Lost Decade. Next week will be former free agent splash and All-Pro cornerback Ashley Ambrose.

Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one. 

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Scribe Session 5.15.14: Draft Review Edition

Scribe Session returns in the wake of the wild weekend of additions in the Bengals draft. But this is not any ordinary edition of the podcast. This week the walls of oppression come tumbling down as two sides often pitted against each other come together for an overflowing cornucopia of knowledge and freedom. (Too much?)

Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com crosses over as we discuss each of the first five draft picks, the fallout from each and of course the always popular AJ McCarron-Andy Dalton dynamic.

Hobson and myself have been at every major event from the combine to the NFL league meeting in Orlando to every press conference and every draftee interview. Only makes sense to drop the competition for an hour and bring together all the information we've gathered in the process.

If you are only interested in McCarron, Dalton's contract and all things quarterback, you can scroll forward to the 30-minute mark as we dive head first into the popular topic.

Thanks to Geoff for coming on the podcast was a fantastic discussion that I think brings reality to light in what can be a league full of opinion and misinformation. You can read him at Bengals.com and follow on Twitter @GeoffHobsonCIN. You can follow me on Twitter @pauldehnerjr.

Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one. 

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Scribe Session 5.5.14: Draft Spectacular

Scribe Session offers up the draft preview edition with three of the top national experts in analysis of this weekend's festivities at Radio City Music Hall.

After 10 minutes to open the podcast discussing the Bengals situation at No. 24 in the first round and divulging my change in who the team will select in the first round, we take to the phones.

From minutes 10-25 I chat with Rob Rang, senior NFL draft analyst for CBSSports.com, SportsXchange and NFLDraftScout.com joins and we delve deep into the options at linebacker as well as the options among the second and third-tier quarterbacks.

From minutes 25-40 I catch up with Nolan Nawrocki, who spent the last 10 years leading draft coverage for Pro Football Weekly, currently with NFL Media and author of exhaustive player analysis book 2014 NFL Draft Preview. He breaks down the top five corners, all options for the Bengals in the first round.

The spectacular closes out with Dane Brugler from minutes 40-55. Dane is a draft analyst for CBSSports.com, NFLDraftScout.com and author of NFL Draft Guide. He breaks down quarterbacks and more fits of the Bengals.

Make sure you follow these guys on Twitter during the draft coverage for all the analysis you need and more as the Bengals picks begin rolling in (@robrang, @dpbrugler) and track Nolan at NFL.com.

Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one. 

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Scribe Session 4.15.14: Josh Katzowitz Edition

The podcast tour continues this week as I reach out to Austin, Texas and CBSSports.com national football blogger for Eye On Football Josh Katzowitz. He's a former Bengals reporter for CBS and also spent six years in Cincinnati, including time at the old Cincinnati Post.

We chat about the Andy Dalton situation and draft possibilities. Plus, since Katzowitz wrote an E-book on Johnny Manziel following his Heisman trophy campaign, we take a deeper look into the NFL future of Johnny Football.

We also roll out the Blaine Gabbert joke book, consider a Bald Men In The Media Roundtable Podcast and suggest Josh head up the Faith No More fan club page.

Much thanks to Josh joining from Texas and make sure you check out the Eye on Football blog at the link here.

Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one. 

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Scribe Session 3.31.14: Advanced Stats Edition

The podcast tour continues this week as I reach out to Wisconsin and Pro Football Focus Bengals correspondent and media liason Jake Liscow.

What we saw during free agency was the latest wave of acceptance of advance stats in pro football. PFF has served as the leader of that movement. They break down the video of every game and every player to excruciating detail. Jake does a fantastic job with the Bengals ratings, grades and advanced stats.

We chat about the evolution of advanced football stats, interesting analysis on Bengals players, I played audio from Mike Brown and Marvin Lewis in Orlando and we take on the Andy Dalton topic.

Much thanks to Jake for taking time to join me on the phone and make sure you head over to check out his work and all the great football coverage at Pro Football Focus. 

Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one. 

You can read more from Mo on his blog here at ESPN1530 or listen to him regularly weekdays from 3-6 on ESPN1530.

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Scribe Session 3.14.14: Mo Egger Edition

In the first post-Joe Reedy edition of Scribe Session I hit the road for Montgomery to chat with ESPN1530/700 sports radio host Mo Egger. 

We run the gamut of news topics to hit the Bengals this week including the flurry of free agency, loss of Anthony Collins, missteps with Andrew Hawkins and thoughts on the intriguing question about extending Andy Dalton. 

We also discuss Mo's fanboy obsession with Bruce Springsteen, Cliff's Notes Vegas stories and the Real Housewives of Kenwood. 

Remember to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Or if you want to listen on your drive to work or during the morning workout just download a free podcasting app on your phone, search Scribe Session and subscribe. The podcast will come directly to you the instant we post a new one. 

You can read more from Mo on his blog here at ESPN1530 or listen to him regularly weekdays from 3-6 on ESPN1530.

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Scribe Session 2.28.14: Pass The Torch Edition

In the final podcast for Bengals beat writer Joe Reedy before he moves home to join Fox Sports Ohio covering the Indians, the torch is officially passed to now full-time Bengals beat writer Paul Dehner Jr.

For the first 30 minutes we discuss the state of the Bengals as Reedy leaves the beat after five years, the outlook on free agency, the draft and next season. In the final 45 minutes we run down the best of Scribe Session, including counting down our top five moments in a year of weekly ridiculousness.

In the final 10 minutes Reedy offers his final farewell to readers, co-workers and everyone else he came across during his 8 1/2 years at The Enquirer and signs off in the only fitting way we can.

Thanks to everyone who listened, fear not, the podcast will continue to go on as Joe moves forward. Keep an eye out for the next wave of Scribe Session in the coming weeks.

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Scribe Session 2.18.14: Breaking News Edition

Bengals Enquirer beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Joe Reedy look at the NFL Combine, free agency and the team's focus this offseason.

More importantly, beginning at the 46:30 mark, Joe makes a game-changing announcement and we discuss. Of course, we drop the news as we often like to do at Scribe Session, through the majesty of song. You won't want to miss this.

As always, remember to subscribe and rate the podcast on iTunes by following the link here and search Enquirer Scribe Session on your podcasting app to subscribe and have the podcast come to you on the go. Enjoy.

As always, remember to subscribe and rate the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Also, search Enquirer Scribe Session on your podcasting app to subscribe and have the podcast come to you on the go. Enjoy.


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Scribe Session 2.4.14: Dan Hoard Edition

Bengals Enquirer beat writer Paul Dehner Jr. takes the helm of the offseason podcast with Joe Reedy enjoying deserved vacation time. For this episode we bring in voice of the Bengals and Bearcats Dan Hoard.

Dan has been the play-by-play voice for the Bengals since 2011 as well as hosting numerous weekly radio shows in season on the Bengals Radio Network.

We discuss the Super Bowl, if the Bengals could follow the Seattle blueprint, offseason needs, draft possibilities and the direction of the team under two new coordinators.

I also flip the script on Dan's fantastic regular feature Fantastic Fun Facts. Instead of Dan interviewing players, coaches and even owner Mike Brown about their interest and lives away from the field, I unearth all the stories behind Mr. Hoard.

Needless to say: Gold, Jerry, Gold.

As always, remember to subscribe and rate the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Also, search Enquirer Scribe Session on your podcasting app to subscribe and have the podcast come to you on the go. Enjoy.


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Scribe Session 1.14.14: Offseason Change Edition

Bengals Enquirer beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Joe Reedy enter into the world of offseason podcasts by discussing the move of former OC Jay Gruden to Washington and promotion of Hue Jackson. They also take a look at DC Mike Zimmer and Minnesota.

We hear Hue Jackson talking about his relationship in pushing Andy Dalton and dedication to the running game.

We also experience our first podbomb as Reds beat writer C. Trent Rosecrans pops in for a few minutes, Pink Floyd scripts the first 15 plays and we allow readers to hear their concerning rage out loud.

As always, remember to subscribe and rate the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Also, search Enquirer Scribe Session on your podcasting app to subscribe and have the podcast come to you on the go. Enjoy.


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Scribe Session 1.7.14: Ugly Aftermath Edition

Bengals Enquirer beat writers Paul Dehner Jr. and Joe Reedy enter in the aftermath of the team's devastating first-round playoff loss to San Diego to discuss the fallout as the organization moves forward.

We hear from quarterback under fire Andy Dalton, coach under fire Marvin Lewis and sought after offensive coordinator Jay Gruden about what went wrong and what the future holds.

Of course, what would Scribe Session be without the Reedy Railroad, music from each of the last four decades and the brutal truth of the rubble left behind of Chargers 27, Bengals 10.

As always, remember to subscribe and rate the podcast on iTunes by following the link here. Also, search Enquirer Scribe Session on your podcasting app to subscribe and have the podcast come to you on the go. Enjoy.


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