Getty Image / Dylan Buell
Many doubted them, but, the Cincinnati Bengals are back in the AFC championship game. A year ago, they upset the Kansas City Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium in a shocking upset.
This year, they will look to do it again, though it may not be an upset. This team has proven itself to be legitimate, and Patrick Mahomes is dealing with a high ankle sprain.
In fact, the game is almost at even money, as the Chiefs are favored by just 1.5 points. That means we could be in for an all-time classic in Kansas City on Sunday.
What’s more impressive is how the Cincinnati Bengals have overcome injuries of key defensive players. Chidobe Awuzie, arguably their top corner, was lost for the season midseason. Trey Hendrickson missed time, too. And, down the stretch, injuries to offensive linemen Alex Cappa and Jonah Williams made many doubt the team.
But, they’ve kept winning. They survived a close game against the Ravens, and then smacked the Bills in Buffalo, 27-10.
They were hoping to get those two offensive linemen back, but, it doesn’t look like they’re going to.
#Bengals coach Zac Taylor says he doesn't expect OLs Jonah Williams or Alex Cappa to play against the #Chiefs.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 27, 2023
That’s a big loss for the team. Yes, they’ve been winning without them. But, It’s a Chiefs’ defense that likes to win by getting pressure with four, especially with defensive tackle Chris Jones.
Frank Clark and Chris Jones: pic.twitter.com/u6UVhM4UaN
— Martínez Chiefs (15-3)bengal week (@Martinez050408) January 27, 2023
— Zyzz ❄️ (@WeTheNorth11) January 27, 2023
It’s going to be a great game, regardless.