If the first matchup between the Bengals and Ravens is any hint, we’re in for a thriller this Thursday night.
Both teams clashed in Week 5, where the Bengals took the lead three times in the second half, only for Ravens’ quarterback Lamar Jackson to orchestrate five scoring drives that ultimately led to a dramatic Baltimore win in overtime.
The rematch promises an exciting quarterback showdown. Jackson is having an incredible season, outpacing his numbers from his MVP campaign in 2023. On the other side, Joe Burrow’s performance has also been stellar, with a 20-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio and over 70% completion rate. These two are some of the most exciting QBs in the league right now.
Last season, the Bengals’ Week 11 matchup against the Ravens was devastating. They fell to .500, and Burrow sustained a season-ending wrist injury, crushing their postseason hopes. Now, with a 4-5 record, the Bengals sit in third place in the AFC North and ninth in the AFC standings, making Thursday’s game crucial to keep their playoff dreams alive.
Both teams made moves at the trade deadline to strengthen their rosters. The Ravens picked up wide receiver Diontae Johnson and cornerback Tre’Davious White, while the Bengals added running back Khalil Herbert from the Bears. Whether these new additions will have an impact on Thursday’s game remains to be seen, but it’s clear both teams are all-in on winning now.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
For the Bengals’ defense, this game is about improvement. They’ve shown progress since struggling early in the season, especially after a setback against the Eagles in Week 8. But their first meeting with Baltimore was rough. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s heavy blitz strategy backfired as Jackson tore through their coverages, especially on aggressive plays.
The Bengals’ only minor success defensively in that game came when they used two-high safety coverages, but it wasn’t enough. This time around, they have cornerback Mike Hilton back, which could provide a much-needed boost. Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson has also been in top form, with eight sacks since their last meeting.
The Ravens’ new receiver, Diontae Johnson, had a quiet debut last week but could make a difference on Thursday. Although Johnson wasn’t targeted in his first game, the Ravens already have solid options with Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Nelson Agholor. Adding Johnson to this mix could be a game-changer.
In their first meeting, Jackson connected with various targets, including tight ends, who were especially productive. Isaiah Likely, Charlie Kolar, and Mark Andrews all made crucial plays over the middle. This tight-end core will be one to watch, as they had a combined 119 receiving yards and a touchdown against the Bengals previously.
On offense, the Bengals’ run game could face challenges. Burrow and the passing game remain the focus, especially with Tee Higgins’ status uncertain due to a quad injury. Higgins and Chase were unstoppable in the last game, totaling 19 catches, 276 yards, and four TDs. Burrow’s passing game is their strong suit.
Running back Zack Moss is out for the season, and rookie Chase Brown is nursing a rib injury. The addition of Khalil Herbert from the Bears might help fill the gap, though it’s unclear how well he’ll integrate with limited prep time. Herbert brings fresh legs, but pass protection has been a weak spot for the Bengals’ backs.
The Ravens’ defense also has something to prove. They recently acquired Rams cornerback Tre’Davious White to shore up their struggling secondary. White’s availability for Thursday is uncertain, as he’s still acclimating and hasn’t played since Week 4. But the trade highlights the Ravens’ intent to strengthen their defense.
The Ravens’ secondary had a rough time against the Bengals in their last matchup, and other tough games have shown areas for improvement. However, their impressive showings against the Bills and Broncos recently suggest they’re finding some cohesion.
Cornerbacks Brandon Stephens and Marlon Humphrey struggled against the Bengals in Week 5, but Baltimore’s safeties also faced issues. Even Kyle Hamilton, their standout, committed a crucial penalty on a two-point play, and his season hasn’t quite matched his 2023 performance.
Baltimore had more success defensively in the first matchup when they dialed back on blitzes. For Thursday, they may need to rely more on their four-man rush and focus on keeping solid coverage on the back end.
The Ravens need to elevate their defense to the level they reached last season if they want to be considered among the league’s elite teams. This game could be a defining moment in how they’re viewed in the NFL.
With both teams hungry for a win, Thursday night could be a pivotal moment in the AFC North race. It’s a game that promises intense competition, high stakes, and plenty of action.
Fans can look forward to an electric atmosphere, with both Jackson and Burrow ready to lead their teams and hopefully deliver a memorable showdown.