The Cincinnati Bengals secured a 30-24 victory in overtime against the Denver Broncos in a thrilling back-and-forth game. The Broncos tied the game with a miraculous touchdown pass in the final seconds of regulation, but their hopes were dashed when Cade York missed a 33-yard field goal in overtime. Despite facing adversity, the Bengals managed to keep their season alive with a game-winning touchdown from Joe Burrow to Tee Higgins. This win marked the Bengals’ fourth straight victory, bringing their record to 8-8 and keeping their playoff hopes alive after a dismal start to the season at 4-8.
For the Bengals to secure a playoff spot, they must first beat the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 18. The Steelers, who currently have a record of 10-6, are still in contention for the division title. The Bengals will need to avenge their earlier loss to the Steelers in Week 13 and secure a crucial victory on the road to stay in the playoff race. Additionally, the Ravens must lose to the Browns for the Bengals to have a chance at winning the division.
The Indianapolis Colts are another team the Bengals are closely monitoring as they compete for a playoff spot. The Colts, with a record of 7-8, must win their remaining games against the Giants and Jaguars to stay in contention. A loss to the Giants, who have a record of 2-13, would severely damage the Colts’ playoff hopes. The Colts also need the Bengals and Dolphins to win out as part of a three-way tiebreaker scenario to make the playoffs.
The Miami Dolphins, with starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa doubtful with a hip injury, face a must-win situation against the Browns in Week 17. The Dolphins, with a record of 9-7, have a chance to win out as they face the Jets in the final week of the season. A loss to the Browns would significantly impact the Dolphins’ playoff chances and could make it difficult for the Bengals to secure a spot in the postseason.
The Denver Broncos, currently in possession of the No. 7 seed in the AFC with a record of 9-7, need to secure a victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 18 to solidify their playoff position. The AFC West champion Chiefs have already secured the No. 1 seed in the AFC, leading to speculation about whether they will rest key players in the final week of the regular season. The outcome of this game will have implications for the Bengals’ playoff hopes as they await the results of other key matchups in Week 17.
As the regular season comes to a close, the Bengals and several other teams are locked in a tight race for the final playoff spots in the AFC. With multiple scenarios playing out in the final weeks of the season, the Bengals must focus on their upcoming matchup with the Steelers and hope for favorable outcomes in other games to secure their spot in the postseason. The Bengals’ resilience and determination in the face of adversity have kept their playoff hopes alive, and now they must continue to fight for a chance to contend for the NFL championship.
