CINCINNATI (AP) — The Bengals' quest to end their long streak of playoff futility has gotten a lot tougher.
A 20-17 overtime loss in Denver on Monday night most likely cost the Bengals (11-4) a chance for a first-round bye in the playoffs. If the Broncos (11-4) win at home against San Diego (4-11) next Sunday, they'll get the bye.
Instead of having a week off to let Andy Dalton's broken thumb heal, the AFC North champions would host a playoff game and then have to win two more on the road in order to reach the Super Bowl — a much tougher road.