CINCINNATI — The stage is set for the Denver Broncos as they visit the Cincinnati Bengals this afternoon at Paycor Stadium for their pivotal Week 17 matchup. With playoff hopes on the line, both teams bring urgency and determination to the field.
The Broncos (9-6) are on the brink of clinching a playoff spot and need to win or tie against the Bengals (7-8) to secure their position for the 2024 NFL playoffs. Conversely, the Bengals, ranked 10th in their conference, are fighting to stay alive, needing multiple factors to go their way to reach the postseason.
This week, the Broncos made significant adjustments to their roster. Notably, they cut cornerback Levi Wallace from the active roster and promoted running back Blake Watson from their practice squad to fill the gaps. Watson, who was briefly elevated to the active roster due to Jaleel McLaughlin's injury, will not play today as he has returned to the practice squad after being active last week against the Los Angeles Chargers. He made four carries for 10 yards and caught one pass for 13 yards during the previous game, according to Broncos Wire.
McLaughlin, who has been recovering from quadriceps injury, will play today, which is positive news for the Broncos' backfield. He had been running effectively before his injury, leading the team with 149 yards on 28 carries across three games before sitting out last week.
With several player updates, here's a look at the Broncos' updated active roster going against the Bengals:
- QB Bo Nix
- QB Jarrett Stidham
QB Zach Wilson - RB Javonte Williams
- RB Jaleel McLaughlin
- RB Audric Estime
- DL Matt Henningsen
The Bengals are equally motivated, with expectations for wide receiver Tee Higgins to make his return, having been listed as questionable due to knee and ankle injuries. He will join the starting lineup, which could significantly impact Cincinnati's offensive strategy.
Inactive for the Broncos are defensive linemen Matt Henningsen and Eyioma Uwazurike, wide receiver David Sills, tackle Frank Crum, linebacker Levelle Bailey, and emergency quarterback Zach Wilson. The Bengals have ruled out wide receiver Charlie Jones, tackle Andrew Stueber, tight end Tanner Hudson, and defensive linemen Sam Hubbard and Sheldon Rankins.
The match will be aired live on NFL Network, with Kevin Harlan on play-by-play commentary, Trent Green serving as the analyst, and Melanie Collins reporting from the sidelines. Fans can also follow the action via Sirius XM NFL radio.
With Denver sitting at -250 on the betting lines, the Bengals are 3-point underdogs and remain optimistic about their chances, hoping to capitalize on any slip-ups from the Broncos. This contest looks to be hard-fought, with both teams bringing their best to push for victory and prospects of playoff contention.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET today. Players will take the field knowing how important this game is—not just for the standings, but for the momentum they hope to carry forward as the season approaches its end.
