The Bengals are guilty of digging themselves such a deep hole early in the season they leave themselves no margin for error down the stretch. This is a proven theme under Taylor’s leadership, and it must be addressed if the goal of the organization isn’t to try and squeeze into the playoffs each year.

The Cincinnati Bengals missed the playoffs despite the five-game streak to end the season at 9-8. As such, another slow start – a critical flaw in the program in the Zac Taylor era – doomed the season back in September.

The Cincinnati Bengals’ season is officially over. Today marks the final day of the NFL’s regular season and the Bengals needed two things to happen to make it to the playoffs: a Denver Broncos loss to the Kansas City Chief and a Miami Dolphins loss to or tie with the New York Jets.

More: 'It's a waiting game.' How the Bengals are handling not knowing their playoff fate. Broncos victory eliminates Bengals from playoff contention . Denver dominated in all phas

The Cincinnati Bengals (9-8) finished the season on a strong note, winning five straight and giving themselves a chance to make the postseason. Unfortunately, the Denver Broncos (10-7) would defeat the Kansas City Chiefs,

Cincinnati Bengals Make History, Miss Playoffs for Second-Straight Season. The Bengals are the first team in NFL history to accomplish this feat.