A Trick Up Their Sleeve

The Bengals are off to a 3-0 start while establishing a reputation for offensive unpredictability with trick plays under new offensive coordinator Hue Jackson.

Trick plays have become the norm in Cincinnati's offense. Since the Bengals promoted Hue Jackson from running backs coach to offensive coordinator in January, the team has featured at least one trick play per game, including one that resulted in a touchdown. Trick-play nominees are suggested in coaches' meetings on Mondays and Tuesdays. By the start of practice Wednesday, the Bengals have a clearer idea of which one they want to execute. After running a few reps of the gadget play during the mid-week practices, the Bengals circle back on Fridays to make sure they are good with what they want to employ. After that, the play doesn't get discussed much until Sunday.