CINCINNATI >> With everything on the line, the Cincinnati Bengals picked off Peyton Manning in the closing minutes — twice, no less — and ran themselves right back into the playoffs.

One breakthrough win gave them a chance for another.

Dre Kirkpatrick returned Manning’s third interception of the game for a touchdown in the closing minutes on Monday night, completing a rain-soaked rally for a 37-28 victory over the Denver Broncos and a spot in the playoffs.

The Bengals (10-4-1) secured a playoff berth for the fourth consecutive season, a franchise record. They’ll play in Pittsburgh next Sunday night, with the winner taking the AFC North title.

And then, Cincinnati will get yet another chance to break one of the longest playoff droughts in NFL history — no postseason victory since the 1990 season. First, they go to Pittsburgh to determine when and where they’ll play.

“Well, we have another hump day next week,” coach Marvin Lewis said.

Kirkpatrick’s 30-yard return with 2:41 left capped a game of big plays — long runs, big kick returns and two interceptions run back for scores. With 67 seconds left, Kirkpatrick picked off Manning again to clinch it.

“I’m not saying I knew he was going to do that,” Kirkpatrick said. “The guy changes plays. He’s a first-ballot Hall of Famer. When he came back to my side, I was waiting for the ball.”

Manning rallied the Broncos (11-4) to three touchdowns in the third quarter and a lead, but finished with a season-high four interceptions. The loss handed New England home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

“I shouldn’t have thrown it,” said Manning, who was 28-for-44 for 311 yards with two touchdowns. “Four interceptions, you’re not going to beat many good football teams.”

The AFC West champions failed in their attempt to clinch a first-round bye.