Stone Shields takes a deep dive into the Bengals’ loss to the Buffalo Bills — and specifically why Cincinnati’s defense couldn’t deliver in the biggest moments. While Joe Burrow’s two late interceptions will dominate the box score, Stone explains why the game truly swung on a handful of defensive breakdowns that occurred long before the fourth quarter.

Stone walks through five critical plays — including multiple 4th-down conversions and Josh Allen’s back-breaking 40-yard touchdown run — that flipped momentum, extended Buffalo drives, and ultimately cost the Bengals control of a game they once led 14–3. He breaks down how issues like inconsistent pass rush, soft coverage, poor rush-lane discipline, and continued struggles against tight ends resurfaced at the worst possible time.

But it's not all doom and gloom. Stone highlights the flashes of speed, physicality, and effort this defense showed — and why the bar for this unit isn’t “elite,” but simply average given the firepower on offense. On Sunday, they fell short of that.

Stone also reacts to the third-and-15 scramble that sealed the game, why the onside-kick debate misses the bigger picture, and how key coaching decisions factored into Cincinnati’s collapse.

Later in the episode, Stone shifts to Tee Higgins’ situation, praising the wide receiver’s toughness while discussing his latest concussion evaluation, the team’s long-term investment in him, and the realistic possibility he could sit if the Bengals fall out of playoff contention.

It’s a detailed, no-nonsense breakdown of what went wrong, where the Bengals showed progress, and what it means moving forward — especially with a massive matchup against Baltimore looming.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Reid Maus and Craig Sandlin discuss the news that the Bengals are waiving Jermaine Burton. While they're live, news breaks that Trey Hendrickson is out for the year. 

On this episode of Chatterbox Bengals, live from Smoke Justice in Covington, Kentucky, hosts Reid Maus and Casey McCollister break down a brutal Bengals collapse in Buffalo that felt about as “Cincinnati” as it gets.

Reid and Casey walk through how the Bengals controlled most of the game behind a nearly flawless Joe Burrow…until everything flipped in two snaps: a corner blitz that turned into a devastating pick-six, followed immediately by a tipped-ball interception. They dive into how those mistakes—combined with a defense that once again couldn’t get stops, whiffed on tackles, and allowed Josh Allen to rip off a back-breaking 40-yard run on a critical drive—turned a 92% win probability into a crushing loss and effectively put the Bengals’ playoff hopes in hospice.

The guys also zoom out and get blunt about bigger-picture issues: the paper-thin margin for error with this roster, frustration with the defense and young linebackers, questions surrounding Trey Hendrickson’s situation, Zack Taylor and Duke Tobin’s futures, and whether it’s time to shift fully into “evaluation mode” and think about draft position and organizational change. They even kick around what the Bengals should do at backup quarterback behind Burrow next season.

If you’re trying to process another Bengals gut punch, question where this franchise is headed, or just want to commiserate with fellow fans, this is the episode for you.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

On today’s episode, Stone Shields dives deep into Sunday’s massive Bengals–Bills matchup in Buffalo — a game that could reshape the AFC playoff picture.

Stone breaks down why the current line makes no sense, why he believes Cincinnati should be closer to a three-point underdog at most, and why he’s confident the Bengals can walk into Orchard Park and win outright. He looks at the health advantage swinging Cincinnati’s way, including the long-awaited return of Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the field together for the first time since Week 2.

From Buffalo’s injuries and turnover issues, to Cincinnati’s improved pass rush, to DJ Turner’s breakout and the challenges ahead for the Bengals’ safeties and linebackers, Stone dissects every matchup that matters. He also explains how James Cook could be Buffalo’s biggest weapon, what the Bengals must do to limit Josh Allen’s legs, and why special teams — especially Evan McPherson and punter Brad Robbins — could swing this game late.

Then it’s on to the fun part: the Bengals offense. Stone details why December is Joe Burrow’s season, how Chase Brown and Samaje Perine have revitalized the run game, why the offensive line is trending up, and why he fully expects Cincinnati to put up points in bunches.

With the Bengals surging, the roster getting healthier, and confidence growing on both sides of the ball, Stone lays out why this team is more dangerous than many realize — and why Sunday could look a lot like past Cincinnati trips to Buffalo.

A huge matchup. A ton on the line. And plenty of value on the Bengals.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

On today’s episode, we zero in on one name dominating Bengals draft conversations: Caleb Downs. We break down why the Ohio State star safety is quickly becoming the most coveted defensive prospect for Cincinnati and why his skill set perfectly matches the Bengals’ biggest needs heading into 2025.

We take a deep look at his elite instincts, physicality, versatility, and rare ability to both quarterback a defense and erase mistakes on the back end. From his downhill explosiveness to his fluid coverage ability, we explain why Downs is viewed as a plug-and-play starter with All-Pro upside — the kind of defensive cornerstone the Bengals haven’t drafted in years.

We also discuss why his leadership, reliability, and football IQ make him an ideal fit for Al Golden's system — and why Cincinnati may need to be aggressive, even consider a small trade-up, if they want to land him. If Downs is on the board, the pick should be automatic.

It’s a full breakdown of why Caleb Downs might be the most impactful player the Bengals could add this offseason — and why he should be at the top of every Cincinnati fan’s draft wishlist.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

On today’s episode, the guys dive into a passionate, unfiltered conversation about the state of the Cincinnati Bengals — and whether fans should believe the team’s late-season surge is real or just another dose of “Kool-Aid.” The show opens with a wild history lesson on the origins of the phrase “don’t drink the Kool-Aid,” before shifting into a raw, honest breakdown of the Bengals’ roller-coaster season.

With Joe Burrow back and the team coming off its most complete performance of the year against Baltimore, national media are suddenly buying Cincinnati stock again. But is it warranted? One host isn’t convinced — laying out why the Bengals’ razor-thin margins, defensive inconsistency, coaching questions, and missed opportunities during Burrow’s eight-game absence make a miraculous run unlikely. From frustrating losses to the Jets and Bears, to what December football typically means in the Burrow/Taylor era, the conversation balances hope with realism.

Stone weighs in, urging patience while acknowledging that optimism needs to be earned. If the Bengals show up again this Sunday in Buffalo, the tone could shift — but with no room for error, one great game isn’t enough to declare a turnaround.

It’s a candid, emotional look at fandom in Cincinnati: the highs of dominating a rival on Thanksgiving, the lows of thinking about what could’ve been, and the eternal belief that as long as No. 9 is under center, the season isn’t dead. A must-listen for Bengals fans riding every twist of this chaotic year.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Charlie Goldsmith joined The Stone Shields Show on Thursday.. Charlie shares insight on Trey Hendrickson’s complicated injury situation, why his week-to-week status has created uncertainty, and whether he may have played his final snap in Cincinnati. He breaks down how the Bengals’ defense has evolved under Al Golden, including new blitz packages, creative third-down personnel wrinkles, and growth from young players like Joseph Ossai and Chris Jenkins. Charlie also discusses Joe Burrow’s impressive return performance, how quickly he shook off the rust, and what that means heading into Buffalo. The conversation wraps with a look inside the Bengals’ draft-day process and how much influence Duke Tobin truly has.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields breaks down the latest in the Trey Hendrickson saga — a story that has taken over Bengals conversations for weeks. With Hendrickson now 37 days removed from his last snap and continually listed as “doubtful,” Stone digs into why the star pass rusher hasn’t returned, why the Bengals chose not to place him on IR, and how his absence has impacted Cincinnati’s defensive rotation.

Stone explores the growing frustration inside the organization, including Zac Taylor’s noticeably short answers about Hendrickson’s status and questions about whether the veteran is protecting himself for free agency rather than pushing to return. With Joseph Ossai, Miles Murphy and others stepping up, Stone discusses how the Bengals may be preparing for life after Trey — and why it now feels likely Hendrickson has played his final downs in stripes unless the Bengals beat Buffalo and stay in the playoff race.

It’s an honest, detailed look at a complicated situation, Hendrickson’s future, and what it all means for the Bengals moving forward.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Wayne Box Miller of the Cincinnati Bengals Radio Network joins The Stone Shields Show for an in-depth breakdown of the latest Cincinnati Bengals storylines. Miller shares high praise for Joe Burrow’s impact since returning, gives valuable insight on Trey Hendrickson’s standout play, and dives into what’s next for the Bengals as they push through the season. A must-listen for Bengals fans looking for expert analysis, insider perspective, and fresh updates on all things Cincinnati Bengals football.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

On today’s episode, we dive deep into the Cincinnati Bengals’ season-shifting Thanksgiving win in Baltimore and what Joe Burrow’s return really means for the rest of 2025. Was it perfect? Far from it. But his presence changed everything—energy, urgency, confidence, and the way the entire roster competed. We break down how Burrow reshaped the offense, whether the defense’s recent improvement is sustainable, and why DJ Turner’s emergence matters more than you think.

We also look across the AFC landscape and explain why the conference is more wide open than usual. From Buffalo’s inconsistency, to Denver’s surprising rise, to the chaos in Pittsburgh and Cleveland, the Bengals’ path to a playoff run might be improbable—but absolutely not impossible. We discuss the mini-bye advantage, key matchups ahead, and which trends actually give Cincinnati a legitimate shot to run the table.

Plus: what to make of the rookie linebackers, how Zac Taylor kept the team bought in, why sitting Joe Burrow was never a real option, and how recent games have quietly pushed the Bengals’ defense toward being “good enough” at the right time.

If you’re a Bengals fan—or just love in-depth NFL talk—this episode is packed with everything you need heading into a massive matchup in Buffalo.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds 

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/ 

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424 

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062 

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522 

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr