The Bengals really face two opponents tonight. First, they face Peyton Manning and the Broncos, Second they face the perception that they can not play on the big stage. So I cranked up the crowd noise and turned off the lights in my office to simulate the game experience for the team. So let's take a look at what Tecmo thinks is going to happen tonight.
The Bengals receive the opening kickoff and find some success running the ball. Demarcus Ware destroys the Bengals offensive line and gets to Andy Dalton for a sack. The Bengals are forced to punt.
As expected, the Broncos easily move the ball through the air. On only a couple of plays, Peyton Manning finds Emmanuel Sanders for the touchdown.
At the end of the first, the Broncos lead the Bengals 7 - 0.
The Bengals get to work, methodically moving the ball down the field. A big run by Andy Dalton sets the Bengals up and Jeremy Hill punches the ball in for the touchdown.
Manning and the Broncos use the little bit of time left in the half and easily get into position for a field goal. The kick sails through the uprights as the half ends.
At the half, the Broncos lead the Bengals 10 - 7.
The Broncos start with the ball in the second half and move to the Bengals side of the field. The Bengals defense holds and the Broncos are forced to another field goal try.
No good.
The Bengals offense struggles and Andy Dalton throws an interception. The Broncos are set up with great field position.
At the end of the third, the Broncos lead 10 - 7.
Denver moves into the redzone but the drive stalls. Once again they come out for a field goal try.
It's good.
The Bengals have one shot to take this game over. On the final drive, with less than 2 tecmo minutes remaining, Hue Jackson's play calls are questionable. The Bengals continue to call run plays and never force the ball down the field. The game ends with the Bengals on the Denver 40.