In Sunday's 23-20 win over the Steelers, Caldwell had three catches for 21 yards, including a four-yard strike from Palmer with 14 seconds left for his first NFL touchdown.

On the game-winning play, Caldwell was supposed to run a slot post pattern and get behind linebacker James Farrior. But when Farrior dropped back deeper in coverage, Caldwell cut off his route and got position in front of him.

"We were thinking alike on the play and I caught it right on time," Caldwell said. "It was like we were reading each other's minds. Sometimes you have to make adjustments on the run."

Through the first three games, eight of Caldwell's 14 receptions have come during the fourth quarter as he is emerging as a clutch receiver. For the season, he has 122 yards (8.7 yards per carry) and a touchdown.

Playing the inside spot, Caldwell is getting a lot of single matchups and has been getting the advantage on the mismatches with linebackers.

"When we spread out, people have to play us one on one because we've got an effective running game and I feel none of our receivers can be stopped man on man," Caldwell said. "We know if we can block their front seven we got playmakers who can make plays one on one."

The Bengals should have a prime opportunity to get more consistent play at Cleveland on Sunday. Going into the game, Cleveland is winless and has scored only one offensive touchdown in its last nine games.

"We ain't focusing on their record, we're focusing on the team," said Caldwell of the Browns. "They're feeling like we did last year. They're backed into a corner and are going to try and fight their way out."