Joe Burrow Returns, Bengals Edge Ravens 32-14 on Thanksgiving
Joe Burrow’s Return Sparks Bengals Victory
The Cincinnati Bengals delivered a commanding 32-14 win over the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving night, marking Joe Burrow’s triumphant return from injury. Burrow, playing his first game since Week 2, threw for 261 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Bengals with poise and precision. His connection with wide receiver Andrei Iosivas, highlighted by a 29-yard touchdown, proved pivotal in extending Cincinnati’s lead and silencing Baltimore’s defense.
Offensive Firepower and Defensive Grit
Burrow’s performance was not just about stats; his ability to dissect the Ravens’ secondary and orchestrate long drives energized the Bengals’ offense. The defense also stepped up, limiting Lamar Jackson and Baltimore’s high-powered attack. Cincinnati’s balanced attack and disciplined playmaking showcased their resilience and depth.
Implications for the AFC North
This victory keeps the Bengals’ playoff hopes alive and sends a strong message to the division. Burrow’s seamless return suggests Cincinnati is a serious contender as the season enters its final stretch.
About the People Mentioned
Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson is a professional American football quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League (NFL). Born on January 7, 1997, in Pompano Beach, Florida, he played college football at the University of Louisville, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 2016 as the most outstanding player in college football. Jackson was selected by the Ravens with the 32nd overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Jackson began his NFL career as a backup but quickly became the Ravens' starting quarterback during his rookie season after an injury to the incumbent starter. He is known for his dual-threat ability, combining exceptional passing skills with elite rushing talent, making him one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league. In his rookie season, he led all quarterbacks in rushing yards with 695 and scored five rushing touchdowns. His breakthrough came in the 2019 season when he earned the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award unanimously. That year, he accounted for 3,127 total yards and 43 touchdowns, leading the Ravens to a league-best 14–2 record. He has been selected to the Pro Bowl and named first-team All-Pro, highlighting his status as one of the NFL’s premier players. Jackson’s playing style emphasizes speed and agility, which has revolutionized the quarterback position by blending traditional passing with significant rushing contributions. Despite regular-season success, his teams have faced challenges in the playoffs, with the Ravens experiencing early exits. As of 2025, Jackson remains a key figure for the Ravens, although his availability has at times been affected by injuries. He continues to be regarded as a central player in the Ravens' efforts to compete for a Super Bowl championship, maintaining relevance as one of the NFL’s most exciting and influential quarterbacks.
About the Organizations Mentioned
Cincinnati Bengals
The **Cincinnati Bengals** are a professional American football team based in Cincinnati, Ohio, competing in the National Football League (NFL) as part of the American Football Conference (AFC) North division. The team plays its home games at **Paycor Stadium** in downtown Cincinnati. ### History The Bengals were founded in **1968** by Paul Brown, a former coach of the Cleveland Browns, after he was ousted by Art Modell. Brown's vision was to return to professional football, and he chose Cincinnati due to its potential for growth and its proximity to other major cities. Initially, the Bengals played in the American Football League (AFL) before the league merged with the NFL in **1970**. ### Key Achievements - **AFC Championships**: The Bengals have won **AFC championships** in **1981**, **1988**, and **2021**, though they lost each subsequent Super Bowl. - **Division Titles**: They have captured several division titles, including recent wins in **2021** and **2022**. - **Playoff Success**: After a long drought, the team returned to playoff success in the **2021** season under quarterback **Joe Burrow**. ### Current Status Currently, the Bengals are led by quarterback **Joe Burrow**, who has been instrumental in their recent success. However, the team has faced challenges, including injuries to key players like Burrow. In the **2023** season, the Bengals finished with a **9-8** record and missed the playoffs. Despite these setbacks, the team remains a competitive force in the NFL. ### Notable Aspects - **Ownership**: The Bengals are owned by **Mike Brown**, son of founder Paul Brown. - **Stadium**: The team plays at **Paycor Stadium**, which offers a modern and engaging fan experience. - **Community Impact**: The Bengals have a significant impact on the local community, drawing fans from across the region. While the Bengals
Baltimore Ravens
## Introduction to the Baltimore Ravens The Baltimore Ravens are a professional American football team based in Baltimore, Maryland, competing in the National Football League (NFL). The team was established in 1996 after Art Modell relocated the Cleveland Browns franchise, marking a new era for football in Baltimore following a 12-year absence of professional football in the city[3][4]. ## History The Ravens' name was inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's poem "The Raven," reflecting the city's literary heritage. The team began as an expansion franchise but quickly gained success due to its strong defensive lineup, led by players like Ray Lewis[2][4]. The Ravens secured their first Super Bowl victory in 2001 and their second in 2013[2][3]. ## Key Achievements - **Super Bowl Wins**: The Ravens have won two Super Bowls, in 2001 (Super Bowl XXXV) and 2013 (Super Bowl XLVII)[2][3]. - **Consistent Performance**: The team has maintained a strong defensive reputation and has frequently appeared in the playoffs, with notable seasons like 2006 and 2019[1][3]. - **Division Titles**: The Ravens have won several division titles, including back-to-back AFC North titles in 2018 and 2019 under quarterback Lamar Jackson[3]. ## Current Status As of recent years, the Ravens have experienced resurgence, led by dynamic quarterback Lamar Jackson. The team has made the playoffs multiple times, including in 2020, 2022, and 2023[3]. The Ravens continue to be a competitive force in the NFL, known for their strong team culture and innovative approaches to the game. ## Notable Aspects - **Innovative Leadership**: The team is owned by Steve Bisciotti, who has been instrumental in maintaining the franchise's success[3]. - **Fan Engagement**: The Ravens have a dedicated fan base, with games played at M&T Bank
