In a thrilling overtime game, the Cincinnati Bengals stunned the Denver Broncos with a 30-24 victory, leaving the AFC playoff race wide open heading into Week 18. While the Broncos missed their chance to secure a postseason berth, the Bengals remain mathematically alive in the playoff hunt.
A Slow Start
The action at Paycor Stadium began sluggishly, mirroring the low-scoring Seahawks vs. Bears game earlier in the week. The first quarter saw only a field goal from the Broncos, making it 3-0. In the second quarter, a Bengals touchdown injected life into the game, sending the teams to halftime with Cincinnati leading 7-3.
Second Half Sparks
The pace quickened in the third quarter. The Bengals extended their lead with a field goal, but the Broncos responded with a touchdown to level the score at 10-10.
The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth battle. The Bengals twice took the lead with touchdowns orchestrated by Joe Burrow, only for the Broncos, led by Bo Nix, to tie the game both times. The frantic final minutes ended with the score locked at 24-24, forcing the game into overtime.
Overtime Drama
The overtime period was equally intense, featuring four drives—two for each team. With 1:13 remaining, the Bengals capitalized on a brilliant pass from Burrow to Tee Higgins, bringing them to first-and-goal. The decisive play came moments later, as Burrow connected with Higgins in the end zone to clinch the victory.
Playoff Implications
The Broncos remain seventh in the AFC standings with a 9-7 record. The Bengals, now 8-8, keep their slim playoff hopes alive. And, trailing behind with 7-8 records are the Colts and Dolphins, both needing wins in Week 18 and favorable results elsewhere to stay in contention.
