Bengals vs. Texans: Andy Dalton Hospitalized with Flu-Like Symptoms

The Cincinnati Bengals are looking for their first postseason victory in two decades, but recent reports show Andy Dalton's health is something to worry about. 

According to Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis, Dalton was taken to the hospital on Wednesday to treat an illness. ESPN's Adam Schefter broke the news on Twitter for those who didn't hear Lewis speak on Sirius. 

Cincinnati was a surprise team this year, finishing with a 9-7 record and making the playoffs as the No. 6 seed. The reason the Bengals played better than anyone expected was because of Dalton's great rookie season.

The Bengals will play the Houston Texans on Saturday afternoon, and if Dalton isn't back to full health it will be bad news for Cincinnati. 

Having played against Houston earlier this year, the Bengals know they can contend and move on to the next round.

However, without Dalton there chances of winning greatly decrease. Bruce Gradkowski is a decent backup, and having rookie sensation A.J. Green will help him, but it's no secret the Bengals would be far better off with Dalton calling the shots. 

It would truly be unfortunate if an illness kept Dalton from playing. His first season in the NFL has gone better than anyone predicted, and he has the chance to show he is a quarterback to fear with a playoff victory. 

Dalton finished the regular season with 3,398 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes. He completed 58 percent of his passes, and proved that he could go toe to toe with the stout defenses of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens. 

If he is unable to play, the Bengals will always wonder what could have been. Cincinnati certainly has a bright future with Dalton, and it could all start this year, but the rookie quarterback has be at a certain level of health before he should consider playing.

Dalton may not have to be 100 percent to play, but if his symptoms get worse, playing against a tough Texans' defense should be the last thing on his mind. 

Stay tuned for further news on Dalton and his illness.