Bengals vs. Ravens: Joe Burrow excels in comeback as Cincinnati forces 5 turnovers to break 4-game losing streak

Joe Burrow made a highly anticipated comeback from his turf toe injury on Thursday night in Baltimore, guiding the Cincinnati Bengals to a 32-14 victory over the Ravens. Cincinnatis offense showed sharp rhythm despite early red-zone struggles, led by the two-time NFL Comeback Player of the Year.

The real surprise came from the Bengals defense. Prior to this game, Cincinnati ranked last in the NFL, allowing 32.7 points per game and recording just 10 takeaways in 11 games. Against Baltimore, they forced five turnovers, effectively ending the Ravens five-game winning streak and pushing them out of first place in the AFC North. The Steelers now lead the division, while the Bengals (4-8) cling to faint playoff hopes with Burrow back at quarterback.

Burrow, who underwent toe surgery on September 19, wore a carbon fiber plate in his left cleat, which he removed between series for a more comfortable shoe. He finished 24-of-46 for 261 yards and two touchdowns. Cincinnati overcame a four-game losing streak and eight losses in nine games, relying on backup quarterbacks Jake Browning and veteran Joe Flacco in Burrows absence.

The Bengals defense, however, shone brightest against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens. Jackson, dealing with multiple injuries including knee, ankle, and toe issues, completed 17 of 32 passes for 246 yards with one interception and no touchdowns, marking his third straight game without a passing TD. Jackson also lost two first-half fumbles, one of which was forced by defensive end Joseph Ossai on the Ravens six-yard line, contributing to a dominant defensive performance.

Additional turnovers came as Jackson fumbled near the Baltimore 19-yard line and tight end Isaiah Likely lost the ball in the end zone after a hit from Cincinnati safety Jordan Battle. Despite multiple opportunities, the Bengals scored just six points from first-half turnovers. Their fourth takeaway occurred early in the fourth quarter when Myles Murphy tipped a pass that linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. intercepted and returned 39 yards.

Evan McPherson contributed with six field goals, while Burrow threw both of his touchdowns in the third quarter. Tight end Tanner Hudson caught a one-handed 14-yard touchdown pass, and Burrow connected with wide receiver Andrei Iosivas for a 29-yard score later in the quarter. The Bengals forced one more turnover late, with cornerback Jalen Davis stripping Zay Flowers as the game neared its conclusion.

This marked Baltimores first four-fumble game since 2007, also against the Bengals. Despite Derrick Henrys 44-yard gain late in the third quarter, the Ravens failed to capitalize on opportunities due to Cincinnatis aggressive defense. By the end, the Bengals had pulled off the biggest Thanksgiving surprise, turning the Ravens over five times and taking control of the AFC North race.

Notable injuries and milestones included Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins being sidelined for the remainder of the game and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins recording his 1,000th NFL reception.

The Bengals triumph was fueled by both offensive efficiency and a revitalized defense, offering a strong signal that Cincinnati is capable of contending if Burrow stays healthy.

Analysis: Joe Burrow’s Return Sparks Bengals' Resounding Victory Over Ravens

Joe Burrow's much-anticipated return to action after a toe injury proved to be a game-changer for the Cincinnati Bengals, who snapped a four-game losing streak with a 32-14 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. Burrow, despite some early red-zone struggles, played efficiently, finishing 24-of-46 for 261 yards and two touchdowns. His performance was key in guiding the Bengals to a much-needed win, signaling that Cincinnati's offense can thrive when he is under center.

However, the real story of the game was the performance of the Bengals' defense, which had struggled throughout the season. Entering the game ranked last in the NFL in points allowed, Cincinnati forced five turnovers, marking a dramatic turnaround. The defense, led by standout plays from Joseph Ossai and Demetrius Knight Jr., stifled Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who, despite his injuries, couldn’t lead his team to capitalize on several opportunities. The Bengals' aggressive defense effectively ended Baltimore’s five-game winning streak and kept their own playoff hopes alive.

The Bengals' victory also had significant implications in the AFC North standings. With this win, Cincinnati moves to 4-8, while the Ravens' loss pushes them out of the division's top spot, allowing the Steelers to take over first place. Although the Bengals' playoff hopes remain slim, the game offered a glimpse of what could be if Burrow stays healthy and the defense continues to perform at a high level.

Ultimately, Cincinnati’s offense and defense showed a much-needed resurgence, proving that they are still capable of competing in the division. If Burrow can stay healthy for the remainder of the season, the Bengals could make a late push, potentially altering the course of the AFC North race.

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• Bengals vs. Ravens: Joe Burrow shines in return as Cincinnati turns Baltimore over 5 times to end 4-game skid