Should you jump off the Bengals bandwagon?

After yesterday's crushing Wild Card defeat, do the Cincinnati Bengals have hope for the future or should you jump off the bandwagon? First, let's take a look at what the Bengals have in place. They have two offensive playmakers in wide receiver A.J. Green and quarterback Andy Dalton. (Pictured.) Both will improve after a fine rookie season. They're solid at the tackle positions with Andrew Whitworth and Andre Smith. On defense, the defensive line is solid with defensive end Carlos Dunlap blossoming into a star.

The coaching was good. Yeah, you heard me. Head coach Marvin Lewis owns the three winning seasons that Bengals owner Mike Brown has had in 21 years. And this year, let's face it, the Bengals were projected by many to win two to three games. Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has rebuilt the defense. Yeah, it gives up too many explosive plays but that's probably a sign he won't be a head coach candidate any time soon. Offensive coordinator Jay Gruden has reinvigorated a moribund offense.

There are weaknesses everywhere. That doesn't mean the team stinks. They just need more depth and playmakers. The Bengals must answer questions at offensive guard, cornerback and safety.

So what about the future? The Bengals in 2013 will have to spend more on player salary. That's because of the collective bargaining agreement which has salary floor. So owner Mike Brown can no longer be cheap. So, why not spend some money now? More importantly, the Bengals have two first round picks for 2012 due to the Carson Palmer trade. They also have an extra second round pick for 2013 from that trade. Those picks give the Bengals hope for the future. So, Bengals Nation get excited for 2012.