After the success we enjoyed in 2006, we shook things up again, this time inviting key members of the Bengals to Music Hall. Players were given instruments that suited their position groups, and again we captured everything for print, photo galleries and video.
Where are the stories?
We ventured away from traditional story-telling and instead addressed only key points each position group would need to improve or focus on in the coming season. As a result, each page was a super-quick read that blended football X's and O's with plenty of off-the-field detail in the breakouts and sidebars.
Who are these guys?
It was amazing to watch the players go from less than enthusiastic (in some cases, even downright grumpy) to eager participants once they received their instruments. Rudi Johnson, in particular, was serious about making music -- right until Chad Johnson started poking his teammate in the ear with a bow. In the end, the players' true personalities were on display, giving readers new insight into what makes the Bengals tick.
Some fun and games
Near the back of the section, we created a playlist of the Bengals' favorite songs and tied it to the team's season schedule. A little road trip music, anyone?