3 under-the-radar Bengals who must contribute vs. Chiefs in Week 17
By Alex Austin
This game could come down to the very end and that’s where Evan McPherson comes into play
The rookie sensation, Evan McPherson, has done almost everything the team could ask from a first-year kicker. He has been accurate all over the field but has been lethal from long range, which has extended the scoring opportunities for the Bengals.
Against the top team in the AFC, he might be relied on in some big moments on Sunday.
When Cincy played the other top team in the league this year (the Green Bay Packers) the game was ultimately lost on missed kicks. With much more on the line, McPherson could get a chance to redeem himself.
It is not likely the Bengals are able to blow out the Chiefs, considering how well Kansas City has been playing lately, but winning a close game is absolutely within the realm of possibilities. It would not be a surprise to see this game won or lost by a kicker at the end of regulation or overtime.
McPherson has said he treats every kick like it is a game-winner, but he is going to need to step up on Sunday and make every kick he is asked to make. Cincinnati will need every point to edge out the Chief and in tight games, special teams usually end up playing a key role.