DJ: Dalton, Green make things happen

CINCINNATI - It was an irritating rap on the redhead coming into the 2011 draft: Andy Dalton doesn't have sufficient arm-strength to make a big impact in the NFL. Similar things were observed about Joe Montana, Drew Brees and so on. It’s the heart in the throw not the heat that makes a difference and Andy Dalton has plenty in his. And the intestinal fortitude to go toe to toe with the bigger boys.

Cincinnati overcame two first half fumbles, one of which was recovered by the Falcons, to win their second pre-season test 24-19.

Mike Nugent (Oh he doesn't have much leg!) kicked a 54 yard field goal in the first quarter to open the scoring. Granted it was in the hermetically sealed Georgia Dome but 54 is 54!

The Falcons equaled that tally which left the door open as to who would score the first touchdown. That fell to the Bengals. Dalton, on third and 15 from the 50, dropped back and behind great protection, calmly flicked the ball well over 65 yards through the air as Green wrested the ball away from a would be defender for the go ahead touchdown. Dalton went to the bench after that with an 8-14, 125 yards and 1 TD slate. Green with two receptions for 59 yards and the score.

Bruce Gradkowski would later find Mohamed Sanu from 12 yards out for another go ahead score in the third quarter. And the better news, it appears the Bengals escaped with few if any serious injuries, though there was mild concern after Jermaine Gresham wrenched his knee slightly.