Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton has admitted that it was important that his side proved they could beat a quality opponent in prime time in their win over the Denver Broncos.
The Bengals secured their place in the playoffs for the fourth straight season as Marvin Lewis's side overcame the Broncos in a thrilling match at Paul Brown Stadium.
Dalton feels that it was crucial his team showed that they had the quality to beat a fellow playoff team before the post-season starts in January.
He told reporters: "Until we had a win like this, people kept saying we couldn't win in prime time. So yes, it was big for us to get this win.
"Regardless of what people were saying, this win meant more because it got us in the playoffs. We know what we are going up against next week, but this was a big win for us."
The Bengals are in action in prime time again on Sunday night in their clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers, with the winner taking the AFC North division.
Simon Sinclair
