If the Cincinnati Bengals are going to win their first playoff game since 1990 on Saturday night, they are going to need A.J. McCarron to lead the way.
Andy Dalton, who has been out for several weeks with a broken thumb, will not play against the Pittsburgh Steelers. This according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com:
Dalton ruled out for Wild Card vs Steelers
— Geoff Hobson (@GeoffHobsonCin) January 8, 2016
Ironically, Dalton injured his thumb trying to make a tackle after he threw an interception during a game against the Steelers last month. You can see a video of the play here.
The Bengals have made the playoffs in each of the past five seasons but cannot seem to win a game. The timing of Dalton’s injury this season was horrible, as he was playing the best football of his career. That said, McCarron has played relatively well and has not thrown an interception in any of his first three career NFL starts.
For what it’s worth, the Steelers will not be at full strength, either. Running back DeAngelo Williams is also expected to miss the game.
