We’re at the halfway point of the season and the Bengals stand with a somewhat surprising 5-3 record. The biggest surprise could be the emergence of third-year receiver Tyler Boyd as a go-to weapon this offense didn’t know it needed. The preseason reports of Boyd looking refreshed and synchronized with Andy Dalton weren’t just training camp fluff; he’s actually good.



Last week’s game against the Buccaneers showcased how far Boyd has come in his third year. A career-high 138 yards on nine receptions to go with a touchdown helped the Bengals score 37 points in a win that needed every yard and point he produced.



Sunday’s total brings Boyd to 66 targets, 49 receptions and single-season highs of 620 yards and five touchdowns. He’s played 77 percent of his routes from the slot and has converted 32 of his receptions into first downs as well as caught 15 balls on third and fourth downs this season.



Boyd, with just one drop...