Week 14 NFL Preview: 5 Keys to Bengals-Texans Showdown in Cincy

The 7-5 Cincinnati Bengals are set to host the 9-3 Houston Texans on Sunday in what will easily be Cincinnati's single most important game of the season.

Given the current postseason picture, a Cincinnati victory could significantly strengthen the Bengals' playoff chances, while a loss would essentially put them out of contention.

Here are five keys to Sunday's must-win AFC clash.

Which Group of Backups Will Step It Up?

The Cincinnati Bengals and Houston Texans are two of the NFL's most promising young franchises, but they're also two of the league's most injury-stricken teams.

Houston will once again be without three of its most prominent playmakers in quarterback Matt Schaub, linebacker Mario Williams and All-Pro wideout Andre Johnson this weekend, while Cincinnati's top two cornerbacks, Leon Hall and Nate Clements, will both be sidelined, as well.

With both teams limping into Sunday's contest, depth will undoubtedly play a major role. Pay close attention to third-string Houston quarterback T.J. Yates and his ability, or inability, to take advantage of Cincinnati's banged-up secondary.

Can the Bengals Make Houston One-Dimensional?

Despite losing both Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson to injury, the Texans have been able to continue their winning ways by leaning heavily on their dynamic rushing attack. With running backs Arian Foster and Ben Tate carrying the load, Houston has averaged over 150 rushing yards per game this season, good for third in the league.

Cincinnati, however, could pose a problem.

The Bengals boast the NFL's No. 6 rush defense, allowing just 96 rushing yards per contest, and if they can shut down T.J. Yates and the Texans' battered passing attack, they should be able to focus in on Foster and limit Houston offensively.

Who Will Win the Battle in the Trenches?

If you're wondering how the Houston Texans have managed to rack up a 9-3 record this season, look no further than their explosive pass-rush.

Despite losing linebacker Mario Williams early in the year, the Texans have recorded 35 sacks, second only to the Baltimore Ravens.

Luckily for the Bengals, the Cincinnati offensive line has given up just 20 sacks this season, and they should be able to hold their own for the majority of Sunday's contest.

Can Cincinnati Limit Their Mistakes?

Much of the Bengals' success this season has been due to their ability to limit turnovers, but they'll be facing a whole new monster this weekend when the Texans come to town.

Houston's ability to rush the passer has created turnover opportunities, and lots of them.

So far this season, the Texans have racked up 17 interceptions (second most in the NFL) and eight forced fumbles.

As well as the Bengals have protected the football as of late, things could get ugly should rookie quarterback Andy Dalton find himself under pressure come Sunday.

How Will the Youthful Bengals Perform Under Presssure?

Cincinnati has put together an impressive 2011 campaign, but Sunday will mark the first time all season that the Bengals will face an absolute must-win scenario.

If they get the W, the table is set for a wild card run. If they lose...it's all but over.

How will this young Cincinnati team respond when it's all on the line?