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We've already gone over the MVP nominees for the Bengals in their win against the Broncos, so now it's time to look at the other contributors. These guys may not have received the big recognition, but they made plays that helped Cincinnati achieve a 37-28 victory. Cast your vote and sound off on this week's Bengals "Unsung Hero of the Week Award"!
Andy Dalton, QB: The pick-six marred his overall day, but Dalton still threw two touchdowns with A.J. Green basically becoming incapacitated on the evening. He used a combination of Giovani Bernard and Jermaine Gresham for most of his work, but also ran the ball six times for 25 yards. Dalton didn't take a sack or turn it over late, which was important when the weather got bad.
Giovani Bernard, RB: Even though Bernard has become the "backup" running back, he's had two quality games since the move has been made. Bernard was a weapon as a receiver and runner, 81 total yards. His 22-yard touchdown reception was a huge one.
Brandon Tate, WR/KR: Tate was thrust into a bigger role on offense as Green was hobbled, and though his impact was minimal there (one catch, 12 yards) he had a huge 49-yard punt return.
Carlos Dunlap, DE: Another solid day at the office for the big guy, as he registered four total tackles and a sack. And, even though it backfired on the defense, the staff trusts Dunlap's athleticism so much that they even dropped him into coverage.
Taylor Mays, LB/S: The "hybacker" saw his first extensive action of the season, likely as part of a defensive game plan for Manning and the injury to Emmanuel Lamur, and he played pretty well. He registered a sack and two total tackles, along with being assigned to help defend C.J. Anderson out of the backfield and limit quick-hitting big plays to Julius Thomas.
Reggie Nelson, S: Mr. "Unsung Hero" makes the nominee list once again for his performance on Monday. The duo of corners, Adam Jones and Dre Kirkpatrick, took the spotlight away from him a bit, but Nelson did have an interception and five total tackles.