Houston Texans: Top 5 defenses on the 2015 schedule

Nov 23, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) runs with the ball against Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Emmanuel Lamur (59) at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Cincinnati Bengals (2014: 22nd total yards, 20th passing yards, 20th rushing yards)

The Bengals’ defense struggled in 2014, but in 2013 they were a top 5 defense, and most of the same players are still in place. One of the biggest additions the Bengals made this off-season was bringing back Michael Johnson. Johnson had a terrible 2014 season in Tampa Bay (but honestly, who didn’t?) but is just two years removed from an 11.5 sack season. He should help improve a Bengals pass rush that recorded the fewest sacks in the NFL last season.

The Bengals also need Geno Atkins to return to his pre-ACL tear form. After tallying 12.5 sacks and 24 solo tackles in 2012, Atkins was mediocre at best in 2014, registering only 3 sacks and 8 solo tackles. The Bengals also added former Packer A.J Hawk to provide some depth at the linebacker position.

The Bengals have a lot of work to do to prove that 2014 was a fluke, but the players are in place for it to happen. If they can find their pass rush they will make life difficult for opponents, including the Texans, which is why it comes in at number five on my list.

Next: Miami Dolphins