Bengals' defense holds players-only meeting amid poor start

The Cincinnati Bengals' defense held a players-only meeting Wednesday in an effort to help the team turn around its fortunes amid a 1-4 start.

"I know we've been playing like shit for real, honestly," cornerback Mike Hilton said about the defense, according to ESPN's Ben Baby. "And we know we have to turn around for us to have a chance to make this run, but that's the thing about this game: You all have another opportunity to go out there and prove yourself."

Cincinnati surrendered 41 points to the Baltimore Ravens in a Week 5 overtime loss. The Bengals are allowing 29 points per game, only better than the Carolina Panthers (33). The Bengals are also allowing the seventh-most total yards per game (365.4).

While the defense has been unable to find its groove, the same can't be said of quarterback Joe Burrow and the offense. Cincinnati ranks top-10 in total yards per game (359) and is fourth in points per game (28).

"We have to hold up our end of the bargain," Hilton said. "(Our) offense is rolling, but we have to do our part. A play here, a play there. Our record (could) be 4-1, but we're 1-4, and we got to climb out (of) this hole."

The Bengals' defense should receive help with the return of some key players from injury. Hilton missed last week's game after hyperextending his knee against the Panthers the week before. Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins also returned to practice Wednesday as a limited participant after missing the past three games with a hamstring ailment.

Meanwhile, Cincinnati placed cornerback Dax Hill on injured reserve after he tore his ACL last weekend. DJ Turner is expected to start opposite Cam Taylor-Britt in the secondary this week.

The Bengals will travel to MetLife Stadium to play the New York Giants (2-3) on Sunday Night Football.