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Bengals’ RBs, WRs brace for game of ‘survivor’

By Chick Ludwig | Tuesday, May 13, 2008, 02:46 PM

ONLY STRONG WILL SURVIVE

Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski calls it a game of “survivor” for the running backs and wide receivers.

Looking good in the first on-field coaching session at Paul Brown Stadium on Tuesday, May 13: Rudi Johnson and Chris Perry.

Rudi is determined to play at 225 pounds and become the Jerome Bettis-style hammer between the tackles that he once was.

Perry practiced for the first time since fracturing and dislocating his right ankle at Cleveland on Nov. 26. 2006, and looked terrific.

Looking bad: Linebacker Ahmad Brooks. He took only five reps and is admittedly extremely frustrated for two reasons: One, he’s still not completely healthy from the groin injury that wrecked his 2007 season. Two, he’s playing a position — strong side linebacker — he’s never played before.

Change of scenery: Eric Henderson has moved back to defensive end from outside linebacker.

He’s baaaack: Wide receiver Bennie Brazell surfaced in the locker room. He was headed to the doctor for a physical exam and was hopeful about being signed later in the day.

Missing in action: Middle linebacker Odell Thurman, who is in Georgia for the funeral of his grandmother.

Here’s the transcript of the media’s interview with Bratkowski:

Q. How did Chris Perry look?

A. It was good to see him out here. I went over at one point and told him, ‘It’s really good to see you out here.’ To me, with him, it’s going to tell over time how he handles the wear and tear of going every day. But he got off to a real good start today.”

Q. What does Perry mean to the offense?

A. If you go back to the last year he played healthy, he gave us a lot of catches, close to 50 receptions. His run-average per carry was real high. He was a nice change of pace to Rudi. He was a very important part. He had some big plays for us. If we can get that back, it’s certainly going to make us a better offense.

Q. Could you tell anything about the way Perry is moving around?

A. From what I saw, he looked good. Now we’ll have to just continue to go through this. See how he handles it and how everything comes out over time, day after day of doing things. But I thought he got off to a great start.

Q. Chris said his body feels fine. He just has a long way to get back to football shape. Do you agree?

A. It’s been a while since he’s played, and that takes time. It’s one thing to do all the conditioning, but the unexpected changes in direction that you get on a football field, the different angles on the routes you have to take…those things take a while. To a good athlete, they come along pretty quick.

Q. Does Perry have good hands for a running back?

A. Oh, he’s got excellent hands. He made a couple of one-handed catches out here today. He’s got, not above average, but excellent hands.

Q. Rudi looks thicker. Would you agree?

A. Rudi’s worked really hard in this offseason. He’s got a great attitude and really approached it as a professional, and that’s a very positive sign.

Q. It looks like a crowded house in the backfield. You’ve also got 12 wide receivers. What do you make of the competition?

A. It’s kind of like a survivor course. Who’s going to manage to do things over time and make it through the battles. It’s going to be very competitive.

Q. With your running backs, will you have a good sense by the end of camp, health-wise, where guys are at? Or will you cross your fingers till the start of the season?

A. By the time we get through training camp, we’ll know where we’re at. You obviously have the unforeseen things that happen after that. But we’ll know where we’re at as we get to the end of training camp.

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Bengals legend nearly loses right leg

By Chick Ludwig | Monday, May 12, 2008, 09:17 PM

THE IMMORTAL REGGIE WILLIAMS

It’s equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming.

It’s a story about how former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Reggie Williams nearly lost his right leg after knee-replacement surgery went haywire with a bone infection that ultimately led to his resignation as an executive at Walt Disney World.

Written by New York Times sportswriter George Vecsey and published on May 12, 2008, the story details Williams’ lengthy hospitalization, his rescue by a medical “cavalry,” his relentless battle to regain his health, his dogged determination to walk again, and the fact that he has “no regrets” about playing football.

NFL fans see only the glamorous side of a brutal sport. They never see the pain these athletes endure.

It’s time for all of us to pause, reflect and visit with Reggie.

Please see:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/12/sports/football/12vecsey.html?ref=sports

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Somebody likes the Bengals

By Chick Ludwig | Monday, May 12, 2008, 07:00 AM

‘FAB FIVE?’

Somebody out there likes the Cincinnati Bengals.

He’s national sports columnist Randy Hill.

Hill includes the Bengals (7-9 in 2007) among his “five teams that could get over playoff hump” in 2008.

The others are the New Orleans Saints (7-9), Philadelphia Eagles (8-8), Carolina Panthers (7-9) and Denver Broncos (7-9).

Check it out at:

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8107036/Five-teams-that-could-get-over-playoff-hump

MORE ON SHAUN

Wanna make the NFL playoffs?

You had better be able to run the football, which the Bengals weren’t able to do consistently in 2007.

Clifton Brown of the Sporting News believes ex-Seattle tailback Shaun Alexander has enough gas in his tank to help a team.

That team could be the Bengals.

Check it out at:

http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=408172

REGARDING BOB JOHNSON:

From Richard Scott: “Dear Chick: Although I followed the Bengals early on, I didn’t follow the draft that closely. I was wondering why the Bengals chose a center (Bob Johnson) with the first pick of the 1968 draft as centers generally aren’t chosen until about Round 3. Are we to believe that Johnson, at that time, was equal to today’s young tackles coming out in the top 5 picks every year?”

The Chickster’s Response: “Hi Rick: The only true center the Bengals got in the expansion draft was John Matlock (Jets) of Miami, Fla. The team desperately needed a center and Bob Johnson of the University of Tennessee was the best. He was immediately installed as team captain, which tells you about his leadership skills. Matlock lasted just one season. Johnson was needed to team with QB John Stofa and be the offensive line’s anchor. Johnson played from 1968-79, taking every offensive snap until he fractured his left ankle at Houston on Nov. 17, 1974.

BRUTAL SCHEDULE

The AFC North Division (Cincinnati, Cleveland, Baltimore and Pittsburgh) faces the NFC East and AFC South this season.

I believe 9-7 will win the division.

Cleveland is the favorite on paper, but I don’t believe the Browns will win the division.

My picks: Pittsburgh (9-7), Cincinnati (8-8), Cleveland (7-9), Baltimore (6-10).

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Bunch o’ wimps (and it’s not the Bengals)

By Chick Ludwig | Sunday, May 11, 2008, 06:28 PM

BIG DREAD MACHINE

Is there a bigger bunch of wimps than the Cincinnati Reds?

Losers of 23 of their first 38 games, the Reds’ pitching is poor, their hitting is worse and their game management leaves a lot to be desired.

For crying out loud, they can’t even bat IN ORDER!

Yes, the Reds did the unthinkable in an 8-3 loss to the New York Mets at Shea Stadium on Sunday, May 11.

Cincinnati batted out of order in the ninth inning — after a double switch — with David Ross coming to the plate in the No. 8 spot instead of Corey Patterson. Ross flied out to right, but the out was charged to Patterson. Ross batted again and singled.

It was the worst brain cramp since former Reds manager Ray Knight either fell asleep or wasn’t paying attention in the dugout once upon a time.

The Big Dread Machine is seven-and-a-half games out of first place in the NL Central, and the only reason they’re still breathing is the fact that St. Louis is 5-5 in its last 10 games.

Worse than the Reds’ win-loss record is the fact that they’re not playing hard or smart.

Ryan Freel gets picked off first base — again.

The only thing Freel is good for is a washing machine, which cleans the soot-covered front of his grass-and-dirt-stained jersey.

Freel’s an erratic hitter, a terrible base runner and his diving attempts at his misplays of fly balls in the outfield are comical.

It’s astounding to me that Reds fans keep mentioning him in the same breath with Pete Rose.

PLEASE … STOP! Freel is nothing more than a part-time utility player. Rose is the HIT KING!

Sure, Freel’s a hustler. But I can’t wait for him to take his pool stick & cue ball to another club.

DID YOU HEAR MARTY?

During the “Ask Marty” portion of Sunday’s radio broadcast, Reds play-by-play announcer Marty Brennaman said that when he retires, he’s going to wear an earring and ponytail.

WHAT’S UP, DOC?

Darrell “Doc” Rodgers’ performance as host of Reds’ “Extra Innings” show on WLW radio is enough to send even the most die-hard fan in search of a pillow. Hey, Doc, gimme some emotion. Don’t put me to sleep. Z-z-z-z-z.

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10 delicious notes (Bengals & more)

By Chick Ludwig | Saturday, May 10, 2008, 01:19 PM

===LUDWIG AT LARGE spoke with wide receiver Maurice Purify at Cincinnati Bengals rookie minicamp at Paul Brown Stadium. The former Nebraska star participated on a tryout basis, then signed a two-year contract on Thursday, May 8. Here’s a transcript of the Ludwig-Purify chat:===

I. MIGHTY MAURICE

“It was real tough not getting drafted. Real tough. The Bengals called my agent and invited me to camp. Now I’m here, trying to make the team.

“I’m trying to show that I’m competitive. I can make plays. I know how to learn the system. I can learn the system. I’m here to do whatever they need me to do. I’m just trying to show it all.

“(Quarterback) Jordan Palmer makes us look good, putting the ball right on the money. I thank him for a lot of my catches.

“This is a great opportunity for me. I’m very thankful for the Bengals letting me in here, giving me a chance to play football again. I’m just trying to show what I can do.

“This is a fresh start for me. It means that I’m in here and now I need to do everything right to stay in here.”

II. KEEP AN EYE ON …

Non-drafted rookie cornerback Simeon Castille of Alabama.

He’s the son of a famous father — Jeremiah Castille, the Denver Bronco who stripped the ball from Cleveland Browns tailback Earnest Byner in a play forever known as “The Fumble” in the 1987 AFC title game.

Simeon fell out of the draft because of his 4.6 and 4.7 speed, but he sure knows how to make plays on the ball.

If he doesn’t make the Bengals’ 53-man roster, he’s definitely a candidate for the eight-man practice squad.

III. TORN ABOUT SHAUN

I’m still torn about the prospects of ex-Seattle Seahawks star tailback Shaun Alexander joining the Bengals roster.

If he longs to be the featured back, then the Bengals aren’t for him.

If he’s content to be a complementary back to Rudi Johnson and Kenny Watson, then I’m all for him.

Bottom line: I think Alexander would be an outstanding addition.

The mere fact the Bengals brought him in for a visit is a sign they’re very concerned about their running game.

Alexander can no longer grind it 20-25 times a game, but he sure would be a nice 1-2-3 punch with Rudi and Kenny.

IV. NOTRE DAME PARODY

Notre Dame fans aren’t going to like this. But anybody who roots against the Fighting Irish will love it.

It’s titled, “Fake Men of Genius — Here’s to you Mr. Delusional-Irrational-Hopelessly Pathetic-Irish-Fan.

http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1780723

V. ATLANTA HAWKS DANCE TEAM

I love the Atlanta Hawks Dance Team. Members are known as the “A-Town Dancers.”

Check ‘em out at:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0805/nba.hawks.a.town.dancers/content.12.html

VI. ARE YOU A DANGEROUS GOLFER?

Then this Web site is for you.

http://www.dangerousgolfer.com/

VII. SPEAKING OF GOLF

The only hole more intimidating than the par-3 No. 17 “Island Green” at TPC Sawgrass is the par-3 No. 12 at Augusta.

Tom Weiskopf found Rae’s Creek five times in the opening round of the 1980 Masters. His “13” remains the highest score ever taken on a hole in Masters play.

VIII. INDY 500

The most dangerous part of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway isn’t the track. It’s Pit Row.

Personally, I’ve had my fill of Danica Patrick and Sarah Fisher.

Neither can touch Janet Guthrie and Lyn St. James as race car drivers.

IX. PARTY OF TWO

The only reason I listen to the Cincinnati Reds on radio is because of broadcasters Marty Brennaman and Jeff Brantley.

They inform, entertain and persuade.

They are the best. The very best.

X. WHEN I THINK OF ‘CLASS’ …

I think of Anthony Munoz, Isaac Curtis, Dave Lapham, Carson Palmer, Takeo Spikes, Willie Anderson, Bobbie Williams, John Thornton, Jon Kitna, Brian Simmons, Madieu Williams and T.J. Houshmandzadeh.

THE CHICKSTER is proud to be host Ken Broo’s guest on WLW Sportstalk at 11:05 a.m. on Sunday, May 11.

Happy Mother’s Day to studettes EVERYWHERE!!!

UNTIL NEXT TIME…

This is “The Chickster” saying, “Make Love, Not War; Give Peace a Chance; and Strawberry Fields Forever.”

Contact Chick Ludwig at (937) 225-2253 or email cludwig@daytondailynews.com

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Can Bengals ‘Purify’ Maurice?

By Chick Ludwig | Friday, May 9, 2008, 09:50 AM

PROMISING PRO HAS TROUBLED PAST

The Maurice Purify Story reads like a Chris Henry novel — only worse.

Here’s the four-step Cliffs Notes version:

Purify’s best friend at City College of San Francisco was shot and killed in 2005; Purify’s brother was shot and killed in 2007; Purify’s girlfriend died in a car crash in 2007; Purify was arrested twice in 2007 — for assault and resisting arrest, and later for suspicion of DUI.

The Cincinnati Bengals couldn’t save Henry. LUDWIG AT LARGE wonders if the Bengals can save Purify, who signed a two-year contract on May 8.

From Steven M. Sipple, Lincoln Journal Star:

What Purify would do to erase his well-documented off-the-field issues. “I talked to every single team after the draft,” said Gary Glick, Purify’s agent. “I don’t want to say it’s off-the-field problems, because it’s more like off-the-field perceptions. Each individual thing that’s happened, in itself, is really minor. But I think people have added it all up and taken it in totality. I had four teams tell me they took him off their (draft) board altogether.” I talked to Purify on Monday. Although he appears set to sign a free-agent deal (he’s headed to Cincinnati’s mini-camp this week), he was feeling hurt. He recalled that November day in Kansas, when he kept beating KU cornerback Aqib Talib, a first-round pick. “If he’s first-round, what am I?” Purify asked in a stern voice that hammered home the draft’s harsh reality.

A portion of Purify’s bio, courtesy of NFLDraftScout.com:

Never one to embrace academics, Purify failed to qualify for a major college scholarship coming out of Eureka High School, enrolling at the City College of San Francisco in 2004. He became a two-sport star, excelling in football and basketball.

As a sophomore, Purify received a call the day after Christmas, informing him that his basketball teammate and best friend, Terrell Anderson, the team’s best player, was shot and killed outside a San Francisco night club. Purify was promoted to the starting lineup, replacing his fallen friend who had persuaded him to play basketball for the Rams.

Arriving at Nebraska, all went well for Purify during the 2006, but after his first year with the Huskers, he went through a bit of a tailspin that led to two arrests and an eventual team suspension. In May 2007, he was charged with two counts of assaulting a man and woman at a bar in downtown Lincoln. The media reported that Purify assaulted a doorman of a bar after the doorman had denied him and acquaintance admittance into the bar.

Police say Purify threw a punch at the man and also assaulted the man’s girlfriend when she intervened. When police arrived, they say Purify didn’t comply with their orders. Purify was taken to jail and was let out on bond. He was also authorized to participate in a pre-trial diversion program.

Five weeks later, Purify was again arrested in early June on suspicion of drunken driving. A State Patrol trooper stopped Purify after midnight, at the intersection of Cornhusker Highway and North First Street in Lincoln. Purify was observed driving 53 mph in a 40 mph zone and failing to use his turn signal, patrol spokeswoman Deb Collins said. The 21-year-old Purify was taken to the Lincoln Detoxification Center after being ticketed on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

Purify was suspended from the team for the 2007 season opener, but his off-field issues continued. While in August camp, his 29-year-old brother was shot and killed in Oakland, California. Purify left the team to travel home, returning after the funeral. In early October, just before the Missouri game, Purify’s girlfriend, Reja Shapiro, died in an automobile wreck.

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The beauty of being a Cincinnati Bengal

By Chick Ludwig | Thursday, May 8, 2008, 07:07 AM

It can be summed up in one word — freedom.

Just ask linebacker Dhani Jones, the Bengals’ international man of mystery who re-signed with Cincinnati this offseason as an unrestricted free agent.

“It’s definitely good to be back,” Jones said. “You can have great experiences here. You’re allowed to be who you are. One thing I’ve always looked for in a team is to be able to be who you are.

“The thing about us during the season: You have to be able to direct that energy toward winning, and I think that’s the area where we have the most to work on. Because a lot of people … they’re allowed to be who they are, but when it comes down to the work week, to the team you’re going to play, you have to concentrate all that ‘who you are’ into the plays and into winning — whoever’s out there. It has to be everybody across the board.”

That’s a polite way of saying the Bengals are underachievers.

DID YOU KNOW …

Jones took up rugby in London in February when he was on assignment for the Travel Channel.

Yup, he joined the scrum for Blackheath in a match against Launceston.

“I just like to travel and try new things,” Jones said. “Rugby’s incredible. It’s a great sport. When you go overseas, rugby players are admired to the Nth Degree. A lot of NFL players should try it.”

Jones also owns Five Star Ties, a New York-based company specializing in bow ties. He simply keeps adding to his resume as a renaissance man.

“The bow-tie business is not going to pay my mortgage,” he said. “But it’s going well up to this point. It’s just a matter of where do I go from here? As things work themselves out, you kind of find out what direction you want to go.”

CHRIS HENRY …

Don’t get me started on the former Bengals wide receiver.

He says all the right things about really being a good guy and needing a fresh start. Then once he leaves the shelter and safety of the locker room, he does all the wrong things.

With five arrests in three seasons, he has trouble written all over him. His next team is in for a lot of headaches.

Contact Chick Ludwig at cludwig@daytondailynews.com

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