By ETT 
Introduction
The AFC playoff race has taken an unexpected turn as the surging Cincinnati Bengals and Miami Dolphins have emerged as serious contenders at the expense of the Denver Broncos. Both teams have defied early season expectations and are now poised to challenge for a postseason berth, while the Broncos’ once-promising season has hit a major roadblock.
Cincinnati Bengals: A Resurgent Force
The Bengals have been one of the NFL’s most pleasant surprises this season. After finishing 4-11-1 last year, they are now 8-4 and in control of their own playoff destiny. Quarterback Joe Burrow has taken a major step forward in his second year, leading the league in completion percentage (70.4%) and passing touchdowns (28). The offense has also benefited from the emergence of wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who leads all rookies with 1,053 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns.
The Bengals’ defense has also played a key role in their success. They are ranked seventh in the league in points allowed (21.5) and have forced 14 turnovers, tied for third-most in the NFL. The unit is led by defensive end Trey Hendrickson, who has 13.5 sacks and is one of the most disruptive pass rushers in the league.
Miami Dolphins: A Cinderella Story
The Dolphins’ rise has been even more impressive than the Bengals’. After going 10-6 last season, they were not expected to compete in 2021, especially after losing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to injury. However, backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett has played surprisingly well, completing 66.4% of his passes and totaling 10 touchdowns and just two interceptions. The running game has also been strong, led by rookie running back Raheem Mostert, who has rushed for over 600 yards.
The Dolphins’ defense has been the real catalyst for their success. They are ranked third in the league in points allowed (17.9) and have forced 16 turnovers. The unit is led by cornerback Xavien Howard, who has six interceptions and is one of the best playmakers in the NFL.
Denver Broncos: A Disappointing Fall
The Broncos were considered one of the favorites to win the AFC West this season after acquiring quarterback Russell Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks. However, they have struggled mightily, sitting at 5-7 and in danger of missing the playoffs. Wilson has not played up to expectations, completing just 64.4% of his passes and throwing for only 16 touchdowns against девять interceptions. The running game has also been a disappointment, with Javonte Williams and Melvin Gordon combining for just over 1,000 yards rushing.
The Broncos’ defense has also been a major issue. They are ranked 23rd in the league in points allowed (24.3) and have forced just 10 turnovers. The pass rush has been particularly ineffective, with Von Miller and Bradley Chubb combining for only 9.5 sacks.
Conclusion
The Bengals and Dolphins have emerged as serious contenders for an AFC playoff spot, while the Broncos have fallen short of expectations. Burrow and Tagovailoa have been impressive at quarterback, and their defenses have been among the best in the league. Wilson, on the other hand, has struggled, and the Broncos’ defense has been unable to generate enough pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
The AFC playoff race is still wide open, and the Bengals, Dolphins, and Broncos are all in the mix. It will be fascinating to see how these teams perform down the stretch and which ones ultimately punch their tickets to the postseason.
