Arizona Cardinals vs. Cincinnati Bengals: 5 Halftime Changes Bengals Must Make

The Cincinnati Bengals find themselves in a must-win situation. They are fighting with the New York Jets for the last Wild Card spot in the playoffs, so a win over the Arizona Cardinals needs to happen for Andy Dalton and his crew.

The Bengals have shown a lot of fight this season, as they have made a lot on what many had expected to be a rebuilding year for their club. Dalton has been great in leading the Bengals, and the rookie has easily supplanted past quarterback Carson Palmer as the Bengals' franchise player.

The Bengals are playing a Cardinals team that has won their last four games. Arizona is also fighting for a spot in the postseason, so both teams are in a must-win situation.

Although facing Cardinals quarterback John Skelton, there is no reason for the Bengals to play down to his level—especially after dropping two of their last four games which included a loss to the Houston Texans at the hands of rookie quarterback T.J. Yates.

The Cardinals' defense has been allowing their opponents to run for 117.4 yards per game, while also allowing 240.3 yards through the air. Look for the Bengals to continue attacking both areas.

The Bengals need to win out and hope that the Jets drop one of their next two games. Here are five things Cincinnati needs to adjust at the half to at least come out of this one with a victory.

1. Make the Field Goal!

Mike Nugent came into the game only missing two field goals on the year.

So far today he has missed two, while also making two. That is six points that could make this lead much more than it is.

Nugent is the kicker, so it's time to do his job.

2. Make the Most of Their Field Position.

The Bengals have had great field position all day, as they have stopped the Cardinals' offense with ease.

Despite that, they have yet to take advantage of the field position like a playoff team should. The Bengals need to continue stopping the Cardinals while taking advantage of their position.

3. Make Smarter Passes.

So far Dalton has had almost three passes easily picked off. Dalton is a smart quarterback, so he needs to continue making smart decisions like he has all season.

This Cardinals defense will take advantage if Cincinnati continues giving them the chance.

4. Get Benson the Ball.

The Cardinals allow 117.4 yards per game on the ground, so get the ball into Benson's hands. The Bengals are loving the pass right now, but they would be more effective with their field position if they mix it up and get Benson banging against the Cardinals' defensive line.

5. Continue Hitting Skelton.

The Bengals have not allowed the Cardinals to make anything happen on the offensive side of the ball. Skelton has been ineffective, so Cincinnati must continue shaking up the young quarterback to ensure that the offense won't make something happen.