For Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, a 428-yard, four-touchdown performance on Thursday Night Football was simply not enough. In a dramatic 35-34 showdown at M&T Bank Stadium, Burrow and the Bengals came up just short against Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. The loss dealt a serious blow to Cincinnati’s playoff aspirations, dropping them to 4-6 and forcing the team into a must-win situation for the rest of the season.
A Rivalry Renewed: Burrow vs. Jackson
This matchup between Burrow and Jackson was more than just a game; it was the latest chapter in an intense rivalry between two of the league’s top quarterbacks. The high-stakes clash saw Burrow put up dazzling stats with his 428 passing yards and four touchdowns, but Jackson and the Ravens emerged victorious, sweeping the season series.
“We just got to make the opportunities that are there, make the plays,”
he said post-game.
“We did in spots and we didn’t in spots tonight, and that’s been the story of our season. So I’m going to do everything in my power to continue to be ready for the opportunities that come, try to take advantage of them.”
Bengals Stars Shine, but Team Falls Short
With Burrow leading the NFL in passing yards, Ja’Marr Chase pacing the league in receiving yards, and Trey Hendrickson as the sacks leader, the Bengals boast individual talent at key positions. Yet, the team’s inconsistent performance has hindered their ability to translate these efforts into wins.
When asked if it was frustrating to see All-Pro-caliber seasons go unrewarded, Burrow didn’t hold back.
“Yeah, this one’s been frustrating… I mean, if you look at how we’re [myself and Ja’Marr Chase] playing, and then, you look at Trey Hendrickson, how he’s playing, yeah, that’s a tough pill to swallow,”
he admitted.
“Obviously, it’s tough when you feel like you’re playing well enough to win and you’re not, but there’s always more to do.”
Cincinnati Bengals Playoff Chances Hang by a Thread
The defeat left the Bengals with only a 30% chance of reaching the postseason, according to the New York Times’ playoff simulator. However, hope isn’t entirely lost. If Cincinnati can win its remaining seven games, the team would virtually guarantee itself a spot in the playoffs.
Must-Win Games Ahead for the Bengals
Looking ahead, the Bengals have a slate of games where they are likely to be the favorites, including matchups against the Dallas Cowboys, Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and Denver Broncos. They’ll also face the Pittsburgh Steelers twice and have a crucial game against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11.
In theory, Cincinnati’s path to the playoffs is manageable, but the team’s performance has been erratic this season. If they want to turn things around, they’ll need to improve their consistency on both sides of the ball.
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