Last meeting
A bad snap on an extra point with less than a minute to play doomed the visiting Bengals as they lost to the Broncos, 24-23, in Week 16 of the 2006 season.
Streaks
The Broncos own a commanding overall series lead, 16-8, and have won 10 of the past 12 meetings.
Keep your eye on ...
Kyle Orton's finger injury: Denver's starting quarterback dislocated the knuckle under his right index finger in the team's third preseason game and his status for the season-opener is uncertain. He returned to practice Tuesday and threw accurate short passes, according to The Associated Press. If he plays, he will be in the spotlight after he was acquired from Chicago as part of a trade involving Jay Cutler in the offseason.
Carson Palmer's protection: After missing the final 11 games last year with an elbow injury and sitting out most of the preseason with an ankle ailment, the Bengals star QB has not had much playing time over the past year. In order for Palmer to avoid more injuries and return to his Pro Bowl form, Cincinnati's rebuilt offensive line must do a great job of protecting him against a Broncos pass rush that was impressive in the preseason.
Josh McDaniels roaming the sideline: The Broncos' new coach made waves in the offseason by trading Cutler, jettisoning several veterans and signing a bevy of free agents. His first chance to show he made the right moves comes Sunday against Cincinnati.
