The Bengals have been one of the best surprises of 2009, partly because quarterback Carson Palmer is healthy again and Cedric Benson has rejuvenated the team’s running game. But some would argue that the key reason the Bengals are on the verge of winning the AFC North has been the outstanding play of their young defense. Cornerback Leon Hall has emerged as the team’s most consistent defensive back over the years and is turning in a solid 2009 season. Through 13 games, Hall has racked up 53 total tackles, five interceptions and one defensive touchdown. He recently sat down with The Scores Report to talk about the key to the Bengals’ defensive success, what it’s like being in the same locker room as Chad Ochocinco and more.

The Scores Report: Your defense has been maturing as a group for the past couple of seasons now. What has been the biggest difference in the Bengals’ defense going from an improving unit to one of the best in the league?

Leon Hall: Mike Zimmer. He really came to Cincinnati with an attitude that if a team gets any yards on us, they’re going to have to earn it. Every week we work hard to do that on Sundays.

TSR: You have become Cincinnati’s most reliable defensive back the past two seasons. How vital is it for players to gain playing experience in their rookie season like you did?

LH: It’s real important. I think it helps you get used to the speed that things come at you, real early in your career.

TSR: Besides winning of course, what’s the one thing the Bengals have to do in order to reach the Super Bowl?

LH: Prepare well each week, playing great defense and giving the ball back to our offense so they can score.

TSR: Do you feel as though you’re playing at a Pro Bowl level at this point in your career or do you feel as though you’re still growing as a player?

LH: I think I am always going to grow as a player. With every year of experience you gain more knowledge and ultimately keep getting better with hard work. As far as Pro Bowl, I’m not really concerned. I just try to perform great week in and week out.

TSR: Besides winning a Super Bowl, would making the Pro Bowl be the ultimate personal goal for you as a player?

LH: That would be one of them. Any individual or team award would be great.

TSR: What is it like being in the same locker room as Chad Ochocino? Does he talk as much during practice as he does on game days?

LH: He is definitely a character, but he works hard every week no matter what, so I love to be around the guy.

TSR: What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever seen Chad do?

LH: Too many to name!

TSR: Who is the hardest receiver to cover one-on-one in the league?

LH: Andre Johnson and Reggie Wayne top my list.

TSR: You have two more years on your current contract. Do you see yourself remaining a Bengal for the long-term?

LH: I can, but that is a long time away. I’m just going to keep playing hard and making plays and let things sort themselves out.

TSR: What is the one teammate that you feel doesn’t get enough recognition for what he does on the field?

LH: Chris Crocker. He joined the team midseason last year and has produced ever since. He has also been a leader for us young defensive backs and a field general.

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