Column: Bearcats face uphill climb to crack playoff puzzle


              Cincinnati wide receiver Tre Tucker runs for a score on a 1-yard touchdown pass quarterback Desmond Ridder against South Florida during the first half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
            
              Cincinnati running back Ethan Wright (4) runs over South Florida linebacker Antonio Grier Jr., for a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
            
              Cincinnati head coach Luke Fickell talks to head linesman Baron Ballester during the second half of an NCAA college football game against South Florida Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
            
              Cincinnati quarterback Desmond Ridder throws a pass against South Florida during the first half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
            
              Cincinnati quarterback Desmond Ridder (9) celebrates with teammates after his 13-yard touchdown run against South Florida during the first half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
            
              Cincinnati quarterback Desmond Ridder (9) looks to pass as he rolls out against South Florida during the first half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Column: Bearcats face uphill climb to crack playoff puzzle