Joe Burrow’s long-awaited comeback gave the Cincinnati Bengals exactly what they needed: stability at quarterback and a spark across the roster. On Thanksgiving night in Baltimore, Burrow guided the Bengals to a 32–14 victory over the Ravens, ending a four-game losing streak and reminding the league of his impact.
Burrow, who underwent toe surgery in September, played with a carbon fiber plate in his cleat but looked sharp despite some early rust. He completed 24 of 46 passes for 261 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with Andrei Iosivas and Tanner Hudson for scores. Ja’Marr Chase added 110 yards on seven catches, while kicker Evan McPherson delivered a career-best six field goals to keep Cincinnati’s offense rolling.
The bigger surprise came from the Bengals’ defense. Entering the game ranked last in points allowed, Cincinnati forced five turnovers against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens. Defensive end Joseph Ossai set the tone by stripping Jackson near the goal line in the first quarter, one of his two sacks on the night. Jackson finished 17-of-32 for 246 yards with one interception, extending his streak to three games without a touchdown pass. He also lost two fumbles, part of Baltimore’s sloppy night that derailed its five-game win streak.
The win reshaped the AFC North picture. Baltimore fell to 6–6, ceding first place to Pittsburgh, while Cincinnati improved to 4–8, clinging to slim playoff hopes with Burrow back under center. The Bengals had relied on Jake Browning and veteran Joe Flacco during Burrow’s absence, but Thursday’s performance suggested the team could still mount a late-season push.
Burrow admitted he needed time to settle in but expressed relief at being back: “I had to knock off some rust there in the first half. I expected myself to play better, but it’s just good to be back out there.” His presence alone seemed to elevate a defense that had struggled all season, producing its most dominant outing against a division rival.
For Baltimore, the loss highlighted lingering concerns about Jackson’s health. He has battled knee, ankle, and toe issues, plus a hamstring strain earlier this year. While he flashed mobility at times, the turnovers proved costly, and the Ravens’ offense never found rhythm.
In short: Burrow’s return steadied Cincinnati’s offense, but it was the defense’s five takeaways that defined the night. The Bengals snapped their skid, the Ravens stumbled out of first place, and the AFC North race tightened heading into December.
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