Bengals’ Defense Faces Historic Low as NFL Trends Emerge

As the NFL enters Week 13 of the 2025 season, significant trends are emerging, particularly regarding defensive performances. One standout is the Cincinnati Bengals, who are set to face the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving night. Currently, the Bengals are allowing an alarming average of 32.7 points per game and 415.8 yards per game, marking them as the team with the worst defensive statistics in the league.

To assess the historical context of the Bengals’ defense, advanced metrics known as DVOA (defense-adjusted value over average) were analyzed from past seasons. This evaluation, covering every season since 1978, reveals that the Bengals have the worst defensive DVOA through 11 games ever recorded. In stark contrast, their defensive performance stands out not only for its poor execution but also for the relatively weak offenses they have faced, with their opponents ranking 25th in average offensive DVOA.

The Bengals’ defensive struggles became apparent early in the season, particularly highlighted by a 48-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3. Since then, the team has allowed over 30 points in five additional games and has permitted over 500 yards on three occasions. Standard statistics further underline their deficiencies, with the Bengals allowing 6.3 yards per play, tied for the worst in the league, while also ranking last in pass rush win rate.

While injuries have impacted the squad, the absence of key defensive players has not been the sole cause of their struggles. Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, considered the team’s best defensive player, has only participated in seven games, contributing four sacks. Other injuries, such as cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt being on injured reserve, have also affected the unit, but the Bengals have largely failed to deliver consistent performances from their intended starters.

Looking ahead, the Bengals’ schedule does not appear to offer much relief. They will face the Ravens twice, including their Thanksgiving matchup, followed by challenging games against the Buffalo Bills and the Miami Dolphins. If the Bengals continue to concede 30 points per game, they may solidify their reputation as one of the worst defenses in NFL history.

Giants and Other Notable Trends

In addition to the Bengals, the New York Giants are also struggling significantly, particularly in run defense. After a tumultuous start to the season, they now hold the record for the second-worst run defense through 12 games since 1978. After allowing 219 yards and two touchdowns to Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs in Week 12, the Giants’ defense has been unable to contain opposing rushers effectively. They currently allow an astonishing 6.0 yards per carry, the highest figure recorded in modern NFL history.

On a more positive note, two offensive players are capturing attention for their impressive performances. Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has already set a franchise record for receiving yards in a season, accumulating 1,313 yards in just 11 games. He is on pace to challenge Calvin Johnson’s all-time receiving yard record of 2,000 yards in a single season.

Similarly, San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey is making headlines with 785 receiving yards to date, positioning him to break the NFL record for receiving yards by a running back in a season, which currently stands at 1,048 yards set by Marshall Faulk in 1999. McCaffrey needs an average of 52.8 yards per game over the remaining matches to achieve this milestone.

Patriots and Bears at Historical Crossroads

The New England Patriots, despite boasting a 10-2 record, have the second-lowest DVOA for a team at that record since 1978. Their statistical performance suggests they are not playing at a championship level, with their below-average ratings in both offensive and defensive categories. This discrepancy is largely attributed to an easier schedule, with opponents having a DVOA of minus 15.0%.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears, sitting at 8-3, have the lowest DVOA for an 8-3 team ever recorded. Despite their winning record, they have been outscored by opponents over the season and face a more challenging path ahead, including matchups against strong divisional rivals.

As the season progresses, the trends emerging from these teams will not only shape playoff pictures but also influence their strategies for the upcoming seasons. For teams like the Bengals and Giants, there is a pressing need for defensive improvements, while others like the Patriots and Bears must navigate the complexities of maintaining their records amidst underlying statistical challenges.