The Baltimore Ravens, sporting a 6-5 record, will host the Cincinnati Bengals, who sit at 3-8, in a Thanksgiving Night clash at M&T Bank Stadium, slated for an 8:20 p.m. kickoff. This game marks the return of Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, who has been out for two months due to injury. The Ravens are currently tied for the top spot in the AFC North with the Pittsburgh Steelers, who also hold a 6-5 record. Notably, the Ravens are set to face the Steelers next in Week 14, making this matchup significant for their playoff standings.
Historically, the Ravens hold a favorable record against the Bengals, with 32 wins to 26 losses in regular-season contests. Under Head Coach John Harbaugh, the Ravens have a solid 19-15 record against Cincinnati and are currently riding a three-game home winning streak against them, having won six of their last seven encounters.
As the Thanksgiving Day games get underway, attention also turns to the AFC playoff picture. Presently, the New England Patriots lead the conference with a 10-2 record, followed closely by the Denver Broncos at 9-2, and the Indianapolis Colts at 8-3. The Ravens’ placement in the playoff standings, currently ranked fourth, highlights the competitiveness of the AFC North, where they are in a tight race with the Steelers. Other teams in the playoff hunt include the Los Angeles Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Buffalo Bills, with the Bengals currently trailing in the playoff conversations.
Overall, this matchup represents a pivotal opportunity for the Ravens as they aim to solidify their playoff aspirations while welcoming back their division rival’s star quarterback. The outcome could significantly impact both teams’ trajectories heading into the latter part of the season.