by Chris Asbrock

The 11-3 Cincinnati Bengals are heading into the final Monday Night Football game of the season with a lot to play for. The Denver Broncos are in the same situation as the Bengals but the Broncos are still not guaranteed a playoff spot. The Bengals clinched the AFC North with the stunning loss by the Steelers at the hands of the Ravens yesterday. The Bengals are still in play for the number one seed overall in the AFC after New England fell to the Jets. A win tonight will clinch at least the number two seed and a first-round bye.

Just like the Bengals, the Broncos are still in play for a first-round bye and could miss the playoffs entirely depending on what happens tonight and next week. The pressure is there for both backup quarterbacks, who are being thrust into the national television spotlight, to perform and lead their teams into the postseason.

Offense

Before Dalton was injured, the Bengals were rolling offensively. The Bengals offense is currently sitting 10th overall in total offense. They are currently averaging 367.3 yards per game. AJ McCarron became the first Alabama quarterback to win an NFL start in over 20 years. McCarron has been in numerous pressure situations throughout his time at Alabama so that should help him deal with the bright lights. It is crucial for the Bengals to get a solid running game going, relieving some pressure off McCarron. 

Brock Osweiler has had the task of taking over for Peyton Manning and has done an ok job. Osweiler has been the victim of some crucial drops that cost the Broncos some games. Osweiler has weapons in the passing game with Demaryius Thomas, Vernon Davis and Emmanuel Sanders. Even with those weapons, it is the running game that is crucial for the Broncos tonight. If they can get the rushing attack going, it could be a long night for the Bengals.

Advantage: Bengals

Defense

There is no doubt the Broncos have the heavy advantage in the defensive category. The Broncos boast the best defense in the NFL. They rank first overall in Passing (YPG) with 200.0, Rushing (YPG) with 79.9. They’re 16 YPG ahead of the Seahawks in Total Defense. The Broncos were torched last week by the Steelers in the second half, which was their downfall. The combination of Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown picked apart the Broncos vaunted defense, outscoring the Broncos 21-0 after the half.

The Broncos will be coming into this game with a chip on their shoulder and will look to make things difficult for McCarron. Look for the Broncos to take away the Bengals rushing attack and pressure McCarron, making him very uncomfortable in the pocket. The Bengals defense is solid as well, with two of the top 10 sack leaders and the leader in interceptions. It is crucial for the Bengals defense to slow down, if not shut down the Broncos running game. The Bengals boast the seventh best rushing defense in the NFL and will need to keep them at bay. If the Bengals can keep the Broncos running game down, they will be in great position to win the game.

Advantage: Broncos

Special Teams

Kicking at altitude has its advantages. The Broncos certainly know that. Brandon McManus is 26/30 this season with a long of 57 yards. McManus has the experience of kicking at Sports Authority Field. Couple that with a solid punter in Britton Colquitt, the Broncos have the advantage in the special teams.

Mike Nugent is 21/25 on this season with a long of 47 yards. Huber is a better punter and will flourish in the thin Rocky Mountain air.
Advantage: Broncos

Coaching

Both coaches are experienced NFL coaches and are having solid seasons. With both coaches having NFL success, this will come down to which coach will have his team better prepared for prime time.

Advantage: Push

Prediction: Broncos 24-13

Chris Asbrock is a staff writer and analyst for FTI Sports and can be followed on Twitter  and