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While a 5-2 mark has surprised most people, the next two weeks will be telling if the Cincinnati Bengals are to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2005.

The surprising Bengals face Baltimore on Sunday and then travel to Pittsburgh next week. They are already 3-0 in the division after winning all three by three points and can gain a huge advantage in tiebreakers even with a split of the next two.

“I see this as a two-game season while coach (Marvin) Lewis is focused on nine-game season as it is just starting,” wide receiver Chad Ochocinco said. “From my standpoint with a win this week and not looking ahead but if we win in Pittsburgh it sets us up for a playoff berth and then keep winning and being successful throughout the season.”

The Bengals will…

The Bengals have released offensive guard Scott Kooistra (KOO'-struh), ending his seven-year career in Cincinnati. Kooistra was a seventh-round pick in 2003. He appeared in 82 games with Cincinnati, including two this season. He was inactive for the other five games. The move on Tuesday left the Bengals (5-2) with an open roster spot.

CINCINNATI, Ohio – Jeremi Johnson had his left leg perched on a wooden stool, a bag of ice draped across his sore knee. Bernard Scott walked around without bandage or brace – a good sign. Cedric Benson? Moving slowly, just like always.

Jeremi Johnson had his left leg perched on a wooden stool, a bag of ice draped across his sore knee. Bernard Scott walked around without bandage or brace — a good sign. Cedric Benson? Moving slowly, just like always. The Cincinnati Bengals' three banged-up running backs were back at it Monday, a little fresher after a four-day weekend.

CINCINNATI – Carson Palmer rolled to his right, deftly avoided several Chicago Bears chasing him across the field, and spotted Chris Henry slipping away from flummoxed defenders in the back of the end zone.

Carson Palmer rolled to his right, deftly avoided several Chicago Bears chasing him across the field, and spotted Chris Henry slipping away from flummoxed defenders in the back of the end zone. The pass was perfect. Easy touchdown. And it was just getting started. For the first time in years, Palmer had his way for an entire game, one that felt like a flashback.

Even after missing most of the ’09 season, suspended OSU WR Dez Bryant could go high in next year’s NFL draft.

Larry Johnson might not get cut following his suspension, but don’t expect him back with K.C. next year.

OWINGS MILLS, Md. – When the Baltimore Ravens' offensive line returned to work Wednesday, Jared Gaither was lined up with the starters at his customary left tackle position during blocking drills.

See last week's absurdly premature playoff picture here . AFC First-Round Byes : Indianapolis Colts Denver…