Matchup with Derrick Henry, Ravens is true test of new and improved Bengals defense

Troy Finnegan writes that the Cincinnati Bengals' revamped defense faces its biggest test of the season against Derrick Henry and the Baltimore Ravens in Week 7. Cincinnati, currently sitting at 3-2, rebuilt its defense during the offseason by acquiring defensive tackles Dexter Lawrence and Jonathan Allen alongside safety Bryan Cook. The writer notes this upcoming AFC North clash will reveal whether Cincinnati's statistical improvements are genuine.

The Bengals lead the NFL with a 23% stuff rate against the run and rank among the top ten in pass rush efficiency with 17 sacks. However, Baltimore enters with Henry ranking fourth in the NFL with 534 rushing yards. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson remains questionable with an ankle injury, potentially leaving backup Tyler Huntley to start against Cincinnati's surging pass rush.