Dec 22, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (25) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Denver Broncos at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Cincinnati Bengals
Everyone remembers these Bengals, right?
The one’s that recently slugged it out on Monday Night Football with the Broncos and came away with a 37-28, playoff clinching victory?
Well, the boys in orange and blue might just see them again if a few things shake out a certain way.
The Bengals have proven that they have a puncher’s chance in any game they’re in.
They have a solid defense on all three levels, an offense that has both threats coming out of the backfield and in the passing game, with a sturdy offensive line to match. The only thing that holds them back from being a true contender is one, Andy Dalton.
Dalton is paid like a franchise quarterback but is nothing more than a game-manager to his very core. He’s prone to making big mistakes in inopportune times and relies heavily on his star-studded cast of playmakers to win games for the Bengals. Running backs Jeremy Hill and Giovani Bernard provide a dynamic one-two punch, while receiver A.J. Green remains one of the best in the game today.
Cincinnati’s defense, as the Broncos know quite well, is more than capable of making plays. The Bengals are tied for third in the NFL with 20 interceptions and have forced 26 total turnovers. They were able to snag four interceptions off of Peyton Manning back in Week 16.
If they do make it past the Colts in the wild-card round, it would be difficult seeing the Bengals being able to take down the Broncos for a second time.
Verdict: Revenge is a dish best served in the cold Mile High air.