In The Trenches with Dave Lapham
Dave Lapham brings his unique view from the worlds of football and broadcasting to his ”In The Trenches” podcast presented by First Star Logistics. Lapham, a 3rd Round selection of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 1974 NFL Draft, spent ten seasons with the Bengals before playing two years for the USFL New Jersey Generals and owner Donald Trump. After his playing career, Lapham became the Bengals color commentator, a position he’s held for over 30-years. Dave uses connections made in sports and broadcasting to bring an exciting and energetic podcast to the masses with ”In The Trenches” presented by First Star Logistics.
Episodes

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Dave Lapham sits down with Cincinnati Bengals offensive line coach Scott Peters! Learn how Coach Peters is using his background in martial arts to revolutionize the Bengals' O-line techniques.
Revolutionizing the O-Line: Learn about the unique martial arts-inspired techniques Coach Peters is bringing to the Bengals, including hand placement, footwork, and arm extension strategies.
Mentors Matter: Discover the invaluable lessons Coach Peters learned from coaching legends like Jim McNally and Bill Callahan.
Building a Dominant Line: How Coach Peters is rebuilding the Bengals O-line after some key departures.
Trench Warfare: The techniques Scott uses to coach players with toughness and resilience.
We want to thank Coach Peters for being a fantastic guest and for joining us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham brought to you by First Star Logistics. We also look forward to growing our new central channel, First Star Media Group, and having you fans follow us along the ride. A lot more content is coming soon so definitely hit that subscribe button so you never miss one of our uploads! As always Who Dey!
Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2025 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.

Friday Mar 21, 2025
Friday Mar 21, 2025
Darrin Simmons of the Cincinnati Bengals! joins Dave Lapham as he sits down with Coach Simmons, a 23-year veteran of the Bengals organization.
This exclusive interview takes you inside the world of special teams, offering unique insights into player evaluation, team building, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
What you'll discover:
The Simmons Legacy: Hear firsthand about Darrin Simmons' incredible journey, from his beginnings as a strength and conditioning coach to his current role as Assistant Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator. Discover the secrets to his longevity and the keys to building a consistent winning culture.
Special Teams Philosophy: Delve into the core principles that guide Coach Simmons' approach to special teams. Learn how he identifies talent, develops players, and creates a competitive environment where everyone contributes. Player Spotlights: Get the inside scoop on Bengals special teams standouts, including Tyson Anderson, DJ Ivey and what to watch for next season
Combine Insights: Coach Simmons shares his perspective on the NFL Combine, discussing the importance of face-to-face interactions, the changing landscape of player evaluation, and what he looks for in future Bengals.
We want to thank Coach Simmons for being a fantastic guest and for joining us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham brought to you by First Star Logistics. We also look forward to growing our new central channel, First Star Media Group, and having you fans follow us along the ride. A lot more content is coming soon so definitely hit that subscribe button so you never miss one of our uploads! As always Who Dey!
Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2025 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.

Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Bengals New LB Coach Mike Hodges: Raw Intelligence & Football IQ!
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Get an exclusive, in-depth look at the Cincinnati Bengals' new Linebacker Coach, Mike Hodges, in this captivating "In the Trenches with Dave Lapham" episode brought to you by First Star Logistics. Dave Lapham sits down with Hodges to explore his unique journey from a high school Air Force Academy recruit to a standout walk-on football player at Texas A&M and now a rising star in the NFL coaching world.
Hodges' story is not your typical football narrative. After being accepted into the Air Force Academy out of high school, he demonstrated a rare combination of academic prowess and athletic ability. After deciding to transfer to Texas A&M, he earned the prestigious Aggie Heart Award, an honor bestowed upon a player embodying character, leadership, academic excellence, and on-field/off-field commitment. This award sets him apart and speaks volumes about his dedication and integrity.
Dave Lapham delves into Hodges' eight years with the New Orleans Saints, including five years as the Linebacker Coach. During these years, Hodges honed his coaching skills and mentored talented players like Demario Davis. He shares his insights on Davis' exceptional work ethic and consistent performance, emphasizing the importance of a team-first mentality and tireless dedication in achieving long-term success in the NFL.
Hear Hodges' perspective on the Bengals' current linebacker group, including Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt. He discusses his evaluation process for potential free agent acquisitions and draft prospects, emphasizing the need for players who possess physical talent and demonstrate a strong football IQ, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to learn and retain information effectively.
Hodges highlights the importance of collaboration within the Bengals' coaching staff. He commends Defensive Coordinator Al Golden inclusive approach, fostering an environment where coaches feel empowered to share their ideas and contribute to the team's strategic direction. He also touches on how all of the team can get behind Joe Burrow.
Hodges shares his excitement about working with Joe Burrow, emphasizing the importance of building a strong defensive support system around the star quarterback. He highlights the need for a simplified yet deceptive defensive scheme that allows players to execute effectively without being overwhelmed by complex play calls.
He shares how his experiences can improve the Bengals and get them ready for some tough competition in the AFC North.
This episode offers a unique blend of personal anecdotes, coaching philosophy, and strategic insights, providing Bengals fans with a comprehensive understanding of their new linebacker coach and his vision for the team's future. Don't miss this exclusive interview that goes beyond the Xs and Os to reveal the character and intellect driving one of the NFL's most promising young coaches.

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Troy Walters: Bengals MASSIVE Double Deal Keeps Star Receivers Together!
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Go behind the scenes with Cincinnati Bengals Wide Receiver Coach Troy Walters! In this in-depth interview, Coach Walters shares his insights on the explosive potential of Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and the Bengals receiving corps.
He discusses the importance of having Chase and Higgins re-sign, the dynamic they bring to the team, and how they work together to make Joe Burrow and the offense unstoppable.
Get a coach's perspective on what makes Ja'Marr Chase special, including his incredible yards-after-catch ability. Coach Walters explains how he's building a receiving corps that's known for not just catching passes but also being dominant blockers downfield and how he keeps players challenged and hungry for improvement.
You'll hear how they foster a dynamic and consistent offense. Don't miss this opportunity to get inside the Bengals' wide receiver room and understand the winning strategies and philosophy that are making them one of the most exciting teams in the NFL!
In The Trenches with Dave Lapham is presented by First Star Logistics.

Friday Mar 14, 2025
Mike Gesicki: Grateful To Be Back With Bengals
Friday Mar 14, 2025
Friday Mar 14, 2025
The Bengals keep a big pass catcher in town, and it’s a big one! Dave Lapham dives deep into "In The Trenches" with veteran NFL tight end Mike Gesicki to discuss his decision to remain with the Cincinnati Bengals and what he hopes to keep bringing to the offense.
This exclusive interview, brought to you by First Star Logistics, explores Gesicki's journey from a multi-sport standout in high school to his professional career with the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, and Cincinnati Bengals.
Mike Gesicki is coming off of a one-year "prove it" deal with the Bengals, where he will continue to benefit from the trust, creativity, and football intelligence of Joe Burrow, a quarterback known for elevating the play of those around him. Gesicki knows that the connection with a QB as intelligent and creative as Burrow is a rare opportunity. The pair sees the game through the same lens, understands coverages, and makes adjustments on the fly, and that connection is primed to take his game to another level.
Gesicki has signed a 3-year, $25.5 million deal with the Bengals. What does this "generational wealth" mean to him, and how did his multi-sport background shape him as an athlete?
Dave and Mike dive into Mike’s history as a high school superstar. At Southern Regional High School in New Jersey, Gesicki didn’t just play multiple sports - he DOMINATED them, setting school records for basketball points, football receiving yards, and volleyball blocks. This multi-faceted athleticism gave him multiple opportunities to play in college:
Basketball offers at Patriot League schools such as Colgate and Bucknell
Recruited to play Volleyball at Penn State
Football scholarship offers to big-time programs, and finally deciding to chase that dream
How has his athletic background played a role in his NFL success? He has always been an athlete, but it wasn’t until his career at Penn State with the Nittany Lions that his talents as a Tight End began to blossom. This was followed by his time with the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, and finally, landing with the Cincinnati Bengals. Gesicki credits much of his journey to working hard and staying consistent. That work ethic has carried him to where he is today!
Gesicki possesses a rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism for a tight end. At 6'6" and 245 pounds, he boasts an incredible 41.5-inch vertical jump. What does it mean to have a vertical jump that impressive? He also ran a 4.5-second 40-yard dash and features an arm length of over 34 inches with a 10.25-inch hand. He's a physical marvel who can run routes, make contested catches, and even contribute as a blocker.
He continues working with Tight Ends coach James Casey, a tremendous coach with years of experience. Casey had a fantastic career at Rice University and brings vast knowledge to help Gesicki. But what is the tight end room like even beyond the game? Gesicki loves the group, with Drew Sample, Tanner Hudson, Cam Grandy, and Tanner McLauchlin all contributing to the team's overall success.
Versatility is the calling card for the Bengals Tight End room. Does Mike see himself as an offensive weapon that can be used in multiple ways? Will this help them to attack those slow starts they have endured over the last several years? The Bengals are trying to change things up to keep teams on their toes!
Gesicki discusses the importance of the "contested catch" and how he thrives in those situations. When does he feel as though it was a strength of his? Does he feel as though it has gotten better and better as he got further into his career?
Ultimately, Gesicki is thrilled to be a part of the Cincinnati Bengals organization. He values the team's culture, the coaching staff's vision, and the chance to play alongside Joe Burrow. He recognizes the potential for success in Cincinnati and is determined to contribute to the team's goals.
Join Dave Lapham as he gets "In The Trenches" with Mike Gesicki, brought to you by First Star Logistics. Subscribe to our channel, hit the like button, and visit the First Star Media Group YouTube channel for exclusive content and special giveaways.

Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
B.J. Hill: The Multi-Million Dollar Bengal Talks New Contract, Team Goals, and More!
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Step inside "The Trenches with Dave Lapham" as the legendary Bengals offensive lineman sits down for an exclusive, in-depth conversation with defensive powerhouse B.J. Hill. This isn't just a surface-level interview; it's a deep dive into the heart and mind of a player who has become synonymous with tenacity, resilience, and commitment to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Fresh off signing a lucrative three-year, $33 million contract, B.J. Hill opens up to Dave Lapham about the significance of this monumental achievement in his life. More than just a dollar figure, this contract symbolizes years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to his craft. Discover what this financial security means to B.J.'s family, providing them with opportunities and a future they could only dream of. Hear his heartfelt gratitude for the Bengals organization, who have placed their faith in his abilities as a cornerstone of their defensive line.
But this interview isn't just about the money but the journey. B.J. takes us back to his roots, sharing stories from childhood, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete. You might be surprised that football wasn't always B.J.'s primary focus! He dreamed of playing basketball, showcasing his incredible athleticism on the court. Learn how his diverse athletic background – including basketball, baseball, and track and field – helped shape him into the versatile and dominant defensive lineman he is today. Find out what ultimately led him to pursue football and the pivotal moments that solidified his passion for the gridiron.
Dave Lapham masterfully guides the conversation, exploring B.J.'s college career at North Carolina State, where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Hear about the challenges he faced early on, the moments of doubt, and the unwavering support of his coaches and teammates that propelled him forward. Learn about his experience at the Senior Bowl, where he showcased his skills on a national stage and solidified his status as a top NFL prospect.
The interview takes a fascinating turn as B.J. reflects on his transition to the NFL, initially drafted by the New York Giants. While grateful for the opportunity, B.J. admits that something felt missing. Enter the Cincinnati Bengals, who orchestrated a pivotal trade in 2021, bringing B.J. to the Queen City. Discover how this trade changed his career trajectory and why Cincinnati feels like home.
Relive the magic of the Bengals' unforgettable Super Bowl run, with B.J. providing unique insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Hear about the incredible camaraderie within the team, the unwavering belief in their abilities, and the resilience that allowed them to overcome adversity. Revisit the iconic play that cemented B.J.'s place in Bengals lore: his game-changing interception against Patrick Mahomes in the AFC Championship game. B.J. walks us through the play, sharing what he saw, what he felt, and the impact it had on the team's momentum.
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, B.J. Hill is a devoted family man. He shares the joys and challenges of balancing his demanding NFL career with the responsibilities of raising three young children. Hear about his wife, his biggest supporter, and how they navigate the demanding life of a professional athlete while creating a loving and stable home.
Dave Lapham skillfully probes B.J.'s leadership qualities, exploring his role as a mentor to younger players on the Bengals' defensive line. Discover how he embraces the responsibility of guiding and inspiring the next generation, sharing his wisdom, and fostering a culture of teamwork and excellence.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, B.J. shares his goals for himself and the team. He emphasizes the importance of starting strong, maintaining consistency, and building upon the foundation they established during their Super Bowl run. Hear his excitement about working with the new coaching staff and his unwavering commitment to bringing a championship to Cincinnati.
This is more than just an interview; it's an inspiring story of perseverance, dedication, and the power of family. B.J. Hill embodies the values of hard work, humility, and unwavering belief in oneself. Join Dave Lapham as they explore the depths of B.J.'s journey, celebrating his accomplishments and inspiring viewers to chase their dreams passionately and purposefully.
Don't miss this exclusive interview with one of Cincinnati's most beloved football heroes! First Star Logistics is proud to support "In the Trenches with Dave Lapham" and celebrate the accomplishments of B.J. Hill.

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Will These Free Agency Moves Make Bengals Super Bowl Ready?
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
In this episode of "In the Trenches with Dave Lapham," former NFL offensive lineman and Bengals analyst Dave Lapham delivers an in-depth breakdown of the Cincinnati Bengals' offseason plans, focusing on free agency, roster construction, and the team's approach to managing the salary cap. Lapham dives into the Bengals' strategy, emphasizing their focus on versatility, responsible spending, and avoiding the pitfalls of dead money.
Lapham begins by highlighting the Bengals' key re-signings, including Mike Gesicki, BJ Hill, and Cody Ford. He emphasizes these players' versatility, noting that they can play multiple positions and contribute in various ways on the field. Lapham points out that re-signing these players allows the Bengals to maintain continuity and familiarity within their system.
The discussion then shifts to the Bengals' approach to free agency, with Lapham analyzing the team's signings and releases. He notes that the Bengals have been active in retaining their own players and adding depth to their roster. He also discusses the challenges of managing the salary cap, particularly when it comes to signing high-profile players like Tee Higgins, Ja'Marr Chase, and Trey Hendrickson, in addition to Joe Burrow's existing contract.
Lapham delves into the intricacies of contract structures, explaining how the Bengals prioritize upfront payment to players and structuring contracts to avoid dead money. He contrasts this approach with that of other teams, such as the Cleveland Browns, which have struggled with salary cap issues due to large contracts with significant dead money implications.
The episode also explores the Bengals' needs on both sides of the ball. Lapham discusses the importance of strengthening the defensive line and finding a replacement for Alex Cappa at the guard position. He mentions several potential free agent targets and discusses the team's options for filling these needs.
Lapham emphasizes that the Bengals are committed to building a competitive team while being fiscally responsible. He highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy salary cap and avoiding the boom-and-bust cycles that can plague teams that overspend or mismanage their finances.
The discussion concludes with Lapham discussing the importance of team chemistry and the desire of players like Mike Gesicki to play alongside Joe Burrow and the Bengals' talented receiving corps. He notes that the opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl and be part of a winning culture can be a significant factor in players' decisions, even if it means taking a slightly smaller contract.
This episode provides valuable insights into the Bengals' off-season strategy and approach to building a sustainable, competitive team. Dave Lapham's expertise and analysis offer fans a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the Bengals as they navigate the complexities of NFL free agency and roster construction.
In The Trenches with Dave Lapham is presented by First Star Logistics.

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
🏈 Dive deep into the Cincinnati Bengals' personnel strategies with senior executive Trey Brown! 🏈
Join us as we unpack an exclusive interview with Trey Brown, the Bengals' Senior Personnel Executive, who gives us an inside look at evaluating talent, navigating free agency, and the NFL Draft process. Learn what it takes to build a winning roster in the National Football League.
This is a MUST-WATCH for any Bengals fan and NFL enthusiast!
In this video, we cover:
Evaluating Personnel: What scouts look for when assessing players. Cincinnati Bengals Roster: From unrestricted to restricted free agents.
NFL Combine & Draft: How teams prepare and what to look for. General Manager Potential: Insights into Brown's career and potential future role.
Key Highlights: Hear Trey Brown discuss the Bengals' strategy.
Discover how the Bengals stay competitive in the player acquisition landscape.
We want to thank Trey Brown for being a fantastic guest and for joining us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham brought to you by First Star Logistics.
We also look forward to growing our new central channel, First Star Media Group, and having you fans follow us along the ride. A lot more content is coming soon so definitely hit that subscribe button so you never miss one of our uploads! As always Who Dey!
Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2024 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.

Monday Mar 10, 2025
Charles Davis: Inside the NFL Combine & The Future Of Bengals Football
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Get ready for an insider's look at the NFL Combine and the upcoming draft! Join Dave Lapham as he sits down with the renowned football analyst Charles Davis (CBS, NFL Network, SiriusXM NFL Radio) to dissect everything Combine Week, plus the future of the Cincinnati Bengals as they look to keep Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson all happy.
In this in-depth conversation, Charles shares his expert observations on the prospects, insights into how the Combine is evolving, and thoughts on the future of the NFL and the Bengals. He emphasizes that experience is back in play.
Here are a few of the key topics they discuss:
Combine Evolution: A look at how the NFL combine has morphed over the years and the importance of recognizing the experiences the athletes bring
Prospect Analysis: Charles Davis shares his perspective on which players stood out at the Combine and which ones should be watched. What are teams really going for?
Team Strategies: How front offices, coaches, and owners use the Combine as a way to work out strategies for the offseason
The Future of the NFL: Charles shares what he learned during Combine Week and what it means for the league's future. What's in store for the 2025 season?
Bengals Roster: Charles breaks down the team's future and the decisions the front office needs to make if they want to return to the Super Bowl during the Joe Burrow era.
Don't miss this engaging and informative interview with one of the most respected voices in football. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the inner workings of the NFL, you'll find plenty to chew on in this episode of In The Trenches with Dave Lapham, presented by First Star Logistics.!

Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Bengals Draft: Post-Combine REPORT with Dave Lapham & Solomon Wilcots
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Get an insider's perspective on the Cincinnati Bengals' draft for 2025 with this exclusive interview featuring Bengals legend Dave Lapham and former Bengals safety and NFL analyst Solomon Wilcots!
Join Dave and Solomon on In The Trenches with Dave Lapham, presented by First Star Logistics, as they examine the upcoming NFL Draft. They dissect key positions that the Bengals need and identify potential prospects who could make an immediate impact. From reinforcing the offensive and defensive lines to adding explosive playmakers, they explore the team's priorities and the overall depth of the draft class.
Solomon, a former NFL safety and award-winning broadcaster, shares his expert analysis of the top safeties in the draft, including Xavier Watts from Notre Dame. He breaks down their strengths, weaknesses, and potential fit with the Bengals' defense under new Defensive Coordinator Al Golden. Learn why Solomon believes Watts' football IQ, versatility, and disciplined approach make him a perfect match for Zac Taylor's vision.
Dave and Solomon also discuss:
The importance of drafting players with a high football IQ and a strong work ethic, echoing the principles of legendary Bengals coach Paul Brown.
The depth of the offensive line and defensive line classes highlights potential gems in rounds 2 through 6.
The strength of the running back and tight end pools and how the Bengals might look to add depth at those positions.
The impact of Al Golden's coaching philosophy and how it could transform the Bengals' defense.
Recounts Wilcots interview of Deion Sanders years ago at Reds spring training that saved his broadcasting career, and interviewing Shedeur Sanders, one of the top quarterbacks in this draft, on why he decided not to workout at the NFL Combine.
Whether you're a die-hard Bengals fan or just a football lover, this interview is packed with valuable insights, draft analysis, and behind-the-scenes stories you won't want to miss.
Subscribe now for exclusive content and stay up-to-date with the latest Bengals news and analysis!
Tune in now and get the inside scoop on how the Cincinnati Bengals plan to build a championship contender through the 2025 NFL Draft!

Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Dive deep into the insights of Cincinnati Bengals Wide Receivers Coach Troy Walters in this exclusive interview with Dave Lapham during NFL Combine Week! Coach Walters, a former Indianapolis Colts standout and a highly respected figure in the NFL, shares his unique perspective on player development, team dynamics, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
We want to thank Coach Walters for being a fantastic guest and for joining us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham brought to you by First Star Logistics. We also look forward to growing our new central channel, First Star Media Group, and having you fans follow us along the ride. A lot more content is coming soon so definitely hit that subscribe button so you never miss one of our uploads! As always Who Dey!
Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2025 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.

Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Al Golden: Came Back To Cincinnati To Win It All
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Get ready to dive deeply into the Cincinnati Bengals' new defensive strategy! In this must-watch episode of In the Trenches with Dave Lapham, presented by First Star Logistics, with a sit down with the Bengals' newly appointed defensive coordinator, the brilliant Al Golden!
Discover his vision for the defense, his insights into the upcoming NFL Draft, and his plan to conquer the tough AFC North. Buckle up, Bengals fans, because this is your inside look!
Welcome to In the Trenches with Dave Lapham! Your premier source for Cincinnati Bengals information, in-depth analysis, and exclusive interviews. Join Bengals legend Dave Lapham as he dives deep into the Xs and Os, bringing you the stories and perspectives you won't find anywhere else.
First Star Logistics proudly presents In the Trenches with Dave Lapham. Thanks to their fantastic support, we can offer exclusive interviews and insights on the Bengals. You can check out First Star Logistics for all your supply chain management needs.
We're honored to welcome Al Golden back to the show this week. Coach Golden brings a wealth of experience to Cincinnati, having served as an assistant coach, head coach, and defensive coordinator in college football and the National Football League. He also brings a wide perspective that allows him to understand exactly what is expected to be great. Known for his disciplined approach, organized schemes, and collaborative leadership, Coach Golden's arrival in Cincinnati has sparked excitement among fans and analysts alike.
In this episode, Dave Lapham dives deep with Coach Golden, exploring key topics including:
Golden's Defensive Philosophy: What core principles will guide the Bengals' defense under his leadership? How will his approach differ from previous seasons? What can Bengal fans expect?
Building a Culture of Success: Coach Golden focuses on creating a strong team culture, emphasizing discipline, communication, and a commitment to excellence. Learn how he plans to instill these values within the Bengals' defensive unit.
The NFL Draft & Talent Acquisition: Coach Golden shares his insights into the upcoming NFL Draft, highlighting potential targets and discussing the importance of identifying players who fit the Bengals' defensive scheme and culture. What are his plans on the defensive side for Free Agency?
Player Development & Versatility: Discover Coach Golden's approach to developing players, emphasizing position versatility and maximizing each player's strengths.
This interview offers a detailed look into Al Golden's vision for the Bengals' defense. Coach Golden emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded approach, combining sound fundamentals with innovative schemes. He is a strong proponent of building an adaptable and aggressive defense capable of dictating terms to opposing offenses.
He also emphasizes developing players to their full potential rather than trying to fit square pegs into round holes. This approach allows the team to utilize each player’s unique abilities.
Golden is also a stickler for horizontal depth where the player can handle multiple positions, and the scheme will adapt to that particular player.
Coach Golden's experience at Notre Dame, including their impressive 13-game winning streak and appearance in the National Championship game, demonstrates his ability to lead a team to success. The interview highlights his leadership skills, strategic thinking, and passion for the game.
Subscribe! Don't miss out on future episodes of In the Trenches with Dave Lapham! Subscribe to our channel now for more Bengals content.
Like & Comment! What are your thoughts on Coach Golden's vision for the Bengals' defense? Leave a comment below and share your predictions for the upcoming season!
Visit First Star Logistics! Learn more about our fantastic sponsor, First Star Logistics, and discover how they can streamline your supply chain needs: https://www.firststarlogistics.com/
Check out First Star Media Group on YouTube! @firststarmediagroup
Thanks for watching In the Trenches with Dave Lapham! We appreciate your support and look forward to bringing you more Bengals content throughout the offseason and the 2025 season. Stay tuned for more updates, analysis, and interviews!

DAVE LAPHAM
Dave Lapham brings his unique view from the worlds of football and broadcasting to his ”In The Trenches” podcast presented by First Star Logistics. Lapham, a 3rd Round selection of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 1974 NFL Draft, spent ten seasons with the Bengals before playing two years for the USFL New Jersey Generals and owner Donald Trump. After his playing career ended, Lapham became the Bengals color commentator, a position he’s held for over 30 years. Dave uses connections made in sports and broadcasting to bring an exciting and energetic podcast to the masses with ”In The Trenches,” presented by First Star Logistics.