Bengals Vs. Texans 2012: Cincinnati Opens With Three-And-Out

The Cincinnati Bengals began the 2012 NFL playoffs by forcing the Houston Texans to go three and out in their AFC Wild Card game at Reliant Stadium in Houston. But the Bengals' first offensive opportunity went about as poorly.

Cedric Benson opened the Bengals' first playoff game since 2009 by running left for three yards, and then Andy Dalton found A.J. Green on a short pass. But Dalton misfired on short route to Benson on third down, and Benson could not make a catch that would have extended the drive, instead forcing Kevin Huber to punt.

Both Benson, a Texas product, and Dalton, from TCU, are playing games in front of a crowd that likely includes more than a few family and friends. Early on, nerves may well be a factor.

For more on the Bengals, be sure to check out the SB Nation blog Cincy Jungle. For more on the Texans, head over to Battle Red Blog. Here's the complete 2012 NFL playoffs schedule.