Mark Schlereth questions Bengals' playoff chances due to offensive scheme issues

Mark Schlereth has expressed doubts about the Cincinnati Bengals' ability to make the playoffs in 2026. He cites their heavy reliance on shotgun and pistol formations, which limits their play-action effectiveness and overall offensive explosiveness. Last season, the Bengals used under-center snaps only 17.3% of the time, ranking them among the lowest in the league. Schlereth advises that the team should prioritize incorporating more under-center plays to improve its running game and help star quarterback Joe Burrow succeed. Bengals' head coach Zac Taylor has indicated plans to experiment with the offensive scheme this offseason.

• 2:55 AMYahoo Sports — Why Mark Schlereth Believes the Bengals Won’t Make the Playoffs