Oakland Raiders Week 11 X-Factors against the Cincinnati Bengals

Johnathan Hankins

Especially with a rookie quarterback starting, the Bengals are likely going to rely on their talented running back, Joe Mixon. Despite missing two games, the Oakley native finished fourth in the rushing title race last season with 1,168 yards and added nine total touchdowns. He hasn’t had the same success in 2019 but has still managed to rack up 581 yards from scrimmage and three scores.

Stopping or slowing down Mixon doesn’t completely fall on Hankins’ shoulders, but the defensive lineman can certainly do his part. He is known for his run-stuffing abilities, and last week the big man might have put together the best game of his career. Against the Chargers, Hankins earned elite Pro Football Focus grades for his overall play and his performance as a run-defender.

As previously mentioned, Cincinnati’s offensive line isn’t exactly a threatening group, so Hankins should wreak havoc for the second week in a row. The veteran defensive lineman should be able to get some pressure in the passing game too, so look for him to make a lot of noise on Sunday.