Major Concern for Bengals' Playoff Hopes: Chiefs May Play Third-String QB Against Broncos

This wouldn't be good for the Bengals' playoff chances.

Nov 17, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Carson Wentz (11) warms up prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images | Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

CINCINNATI — The Bengals need the Chiefs to beat the Broncos and the Jets to beat the Dolphins to make the playoffs after Saturday night's 19-17 win over the Steelers.

The Chiefs aren't playing a lot of their key players, including Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Isaiah Pacheco and Chris Jones.

Carson Wentz will start at quarterback, but there's a chance that third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun could get snaps against the Broncos.

Related: A Breakdown of the Bengals' Odds of Making the Playoffs After Win Over Steelers

Starting Wentz is one thing, but if the Bengals' playoff hopes are relying on a third-string quarterback to beat a quality defense in the Broncos, then it may be time to make plans that don't involve the Bengals' in the playoffs.

This is also a chance for Wentz to audition for the rest of the NFL. How long will the Chiefs let the former No. 2 overall pick play? That could be the key to the Bengals making the playoffs this season.

Peter Schrager just said on Fox NFL Kickoff show that there is a good chance that Carson Wentz is not the only QB playing today. Saying Chris Oladokun could play in the 3rd quarter. Which means that the Chiefs will be playing 3rd stringers as well.

— Brad Henson Productions (@BradHensonPro) January 5, 2025

Obviously how the game plays out dictates what's called, but don't be surprised if you see Carson Wentz slinging it today in Denver. My understanding is Andy Reid would like to let Wentz rip it a bit.

— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) January 5, 2025

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