Geno Stone’s Tackling Transformation Anchors Bengals’ Defensive Resurgence

Cincinnati Bengals safety Geno Stone delivered a career-defining performance last Sunday. He recorded 13 tackles and a critical interception returned for a touchdown. This happened during the Bengals’ 26-20 loss to the New England Patriots.

The standout game marks a dramatic personal turnaround for the young defender. It follows targeted work to fix earlier tackling issues that plagued his season.

Coaching Focus Leads to Breakthrough Performance

Defensive coordinator Al Golden identified a key area for improvement. He spoke with Stone last week about mastering “space tackling.” This technique involves closing distance on ball carriers in open field.

Golden cited former Bengal Jessie Bates III as an example. He explained how refining this skill elevated Bates’s game to an elite level. Stone took the lesson to heart.

He immediately began intensive drills with teammate Jordan Battle. They practiced closing from 20 yards out to ensure solid contact. The work paid immediate dividends on game day.

According to Pro Football Focus, Stone missed zero tackles against New England. The entire Bengals defense tallied only six missed tackles. It was their most disciplined performance this season.

Golden praised the collective effort. He called it the team’s best tackling game, both individually and as a unit. The data from trusted sources like Pro Football Focus backed his assessment.

Leadership and Impact Beyond the Stat Sheet

Stone’s evolution is about more than just technique. His willingness to address a public weakness has resonated in the locker room. It set a standard for accountability and growth.

Coach Golden now names Stone among the defensive leaders. He highlighted him alongside others like Jordan Battle as a tone-setter. This leadership was visible in a key goal-line stand.

The Bengals’ defense stopped New England on nine consecutive plays inside the five-yard line. That series showcased a new level of resilience. Stone’s improved play is a central part of that identity shift.

For the season, Stone’s statistics underscore his value. He has 80 total tackles, two interceptions, and a sack across 11 games. His reliability is crucial for a secondary managing injuries.

The team will need him again this Thursday against Baltimore. Key players like Tye Higgins and Trey Hendrickson are ruled out. Stone’s role as a sure tackler in space will be tested by the Ravens’ dynamic offense.

Geno Stone’s commitment to mastering his craft has solidified the Bengals’ defensive backfield. His tackling transformation provides a blueprint for turning weakness into strength. This development could define Cincinnati’s defensive identity moving forward.

Info at your fingertips

How many tackles did Geno Stone have last game?

Geno Stone recorded 13 total tackles against the New England Patriots. This was the second-highest total on the team for that game. He also did not miss a single tackle according to game analysts.

What is “space tackling”?

Space tackling is the technique of closing distance on a ball carrier in the open field. It requires proper angle, speed, and body control to make a secure stop. Defensive coordinator Al Golden emphasized this as a key area for Stone’s improvement.

Who helped Geno Stone improve his tackling?

Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden initiated the focus on space tackling. Safety Jordan Battle then worked directly with Stone on specific drills during practice. This collaborative effort led to the noticeable in-game improvement.

Why is Stone’s performance important for the Bengals?

The Bengals’ defense has struggled with consistency and injuries this season. Stone’s emergence as a reliable tackler and leader provides much-needed stability. His play directly improves the team’s ability to stop opposing drives.

What are Geno Stone’s season stats?

Through 11 games, Stone has accumulated 80 total tackles. He also has two interceptions, three passes defensed, and one sack. His pick-six against the Patriots was a pivotal play.