Bengals and Packers: Super Bowl Contenders Without the Run Game
In the NFL, the mantra "Run the ball. Run the ball. Run the ball." echoes through coaching circles and fan discussions alike. The prevailing belief is that without a strong rushing attack, a team is doomed to fail. However, the Cincinnati Bengals and Green Bay Packers are challenging this notion as they enter Week 10 of the 2026 season as legitimate Super Bowl contenders, despite their struggles on the ground. Their success can be attributed to their exceptional passing offenses.
Currently, the Bengals boast the top passing offense in the league, averaging an impressive 285.5 yards per game. Hot on their heels are the Packers, who are not far behind with an average of 279.7 yards per game. Both teams have shown remarkable consistency, each surpassing the 300-yard mark in their last three games. This aerial prowess has allowed them to remain competitive, even as their rushing statistics tell a different story.
When it comes to rushing, the Bengals rank a dismal 30th in the league, while the Packers sit at the bottom, dead last. Neither team manages to average 100 rushing yards per game, and their rushing averages are below 4.0 yards per carry. The Packers, in particular, struggle with a mere 3.0 yards per rush, placing them 31st in the NFL. While both teams have seen slight improvements in their rushing performance over the past three games, it is clear that their ground games are not the key to their success.
As the season progresses, both teams will need to find ways to improve their rushing attacks, especially in late-game situations where running the clock becomes crucial. However, for now, the strategy of allowing quarterbacks Joe Burrow and Jordan Love to air it out is proving effective. The Bengals and Packers are equipped with two dynamic quarterbacks who can make big plays, supported by talented receivers capable of stretching the field.
Power rankings reflect passing game success
In this week’s power rankings, the Bengals have climbed to No. 7, while the Packers have made their way into the top 10, landing at No. 10. Maintaining these positions will require both teams to stick to their strengths and resist the pressure to conform to traditional offensive strategies that prioritize the run game. Instead, they should continue to embrace their high-octane passing styles, which have the potential to carry them deep into the playoffs.
The Final Whistle
The success of the Bengals and Packers serves as a reminder that in today’s NFL, a strong passing game can often outweigh the need for a robust rushing attack. As both teams continue to rely on their quarterbacks, they are redefining what it means to be a successful offense in the league. If they can keep their foot on the gas and avoid falling into the trap of conventional wisdom, they may very well find themselves competing for a Super Bowl title come season's end.
In conclusion, the Bengals and Packers are proving that the NFL is evolving. Their ability to thrive without a strong running game highlights the importance of adaptability in modern football. As they continue to leverage the talents of their quarterbacks, they are setting a new standard for offensive success in the league. If they can maintain their current trajectory, both teams could very well be in the mix for a championship, challenging the old adage that running the ball is essential for success in the NFL.
