Cincinnati Bengals Keep Playoff Hopes Alive with Thrilling Overtime Victory Over Denver Broncos
In a game that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Cincinnati Bengals managed to keep their playoff dreams alive with a nail-biting 30-24 overtime win against the Denver Broncos at Paycor Stadium. This victory was crucial for the Bengals, as it denied the Broncos a chance to clinch a postseason spot for the second week in a row.
Receiver Tee Higgins was the star of the night, catching his third touchdown pass in overtime, which was pivotal in keeping the Bengals’ playoff hopes alive as they head into the final weekend of the season. Despite the loss, the Broncos remain in a favorable position for the AFC’s seventh and final playoff spot, needing only a win against the Chiefs next week to qualify.
Here’s a closer look at the key takeaways from Saturday night’s game for both teams:
Cincinnati Bengals (8-8)
The Bengals are on a roll, having won their fourth consecutive game in a playoff-like atmosphere. This victory keeps them in the hunt for a postseason berth as they enter Week 18. To secure a playoff spot, the Bengals need to win against the Steelers next week and hope for losses from both the Colts and Dolphins in at least one of their remaining games. Additionally, they need the Broncos to lose to the Chiefs.
Saturday night’s game was a back-and-forth battle, with Higgins catching a 3-yard touchdown pass to seal the win. He finished the game with an impressive 11 receptions for 131 yards and three touchdowns. This performance ensures that the Bengals remain in playoff contention heading into the final week of the regular season.
Pivotal play: Kicker Cade York had a chance to win the game in regulation, but his 33-yard attempt hit the left upright, forcing the Bengals to rely on a late score to secure the victory.
Prediction for next week: Devin Cochran is expected to start at right tackle. Rookie Amarius Mims attempted to play despite a broken hand but was unable to continue past the second quarter. His injury may prevent him from starting against the Steelers.
QB breakdown: Joe Burrow delivered a standout performance against a formidable Denver defense, completing 39 of 49 passes for 412 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. He also had a crucial 19-yard scramble on third-and-14, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion against a tough secondary and pass rush.
Next game: at Pittsburgh Steelers (TBD, Sunday, Jan. 5)
Denver Broncos (9-7)
The Broncos missed another opportunity to secure their first playoff berth since 2015 with a clunky overtime loss to the Bengals. This defeat, coupled with a previous loss to the Chargers, has left the Broncos still searching for that elusive playoff spot.
After a win against the Indianapolis Colts on Dec. 15, the Broncos were 9-5 and in a strong position. However, they now find themselves needing help to secure the last AFC postseason slot, depending on the outcomes of other games this weekend. Coach Sean Payton emphasized the importance of reaching a 10th win to seal the playoffs, but the Broncos have yet to achieve that goal.
Most surprising performance: Riley Moss returned to the lineup after missing three games with a sprained right MCL. Despite facing constant action from the Bengals, Moss recorded 14 tackles, his highest since the season opener.
Troubling trend: The Broncos have struggled with complementary football, particularly when the defense needs a break. After an opening field-goal drive, the Broncos’ first-half possessions were lackluster, including a three-and-out that left the defense vulnerable to a Bengals touchdown.
QB breakdown: Bo Nix has faced challenges as defenses adjust to him. He struggled to complete throws in the middle of the field, with his longest completion being a 51-yard touchdown to Marvin Mims Jr. Nix also threw an interception but managed to tie the game with a 25-yard touchdown pass to Mims, marking his third game this season with three touchdown passes.
Next game: vs. Kansas City Chiefs (TBD, Sunday, Jan. 5)
Originally Written by: Ben Baby,Jeff Legwold
