In a highly anticipated AFC North matchup, the Baltimore Ravens secured a 34-20 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, improving their season record to 8-3. The game, however, did not unfold as a primetime offensive spectacle, featuring nine punts and a missed field goal by Bengals kicker Evan McPherson.
The contest was marred by injuries, with Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow being the most notable casualty. Despite not being listed on the Bengals’ injury list before the game, Burrow, who had been seen wearing a brace on his right wrist, experienced pain after throwing a touchdown pass in the second quarter. He was later ruled out for the remainder of the game due to a suspected wrist sprain, with backup Jake Browning taking over.
Baltimore, setting the pace in the competitive AFC North, started the game strongly with a rushing touchdown by Gus Edwards. However, the Ravens faced setbacks as tight end Mark Andrews suffered an ankle injury and was ruled out for the rest of the season.
The first half saw both teams trading scores, with Lamar Jackson connecting with Nelson Agholor for a touchdown and Rashod Bateman adding another for the Ravens. Despite Bengals kicker McPherson contributing field goals, the Ravens led 21-10 at halftime.
In the second half, the Bengals struggled to mount a comeback against the Ravens’ formidable defense. Ravens kicker Justin Tucker added two field goals, and Edwards scored his second touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Browning, thrust into a challenging situation, managed to throw his first NFL touchdown pass to Ja’Marr Chase in the closing minutes.
Despite dealing with injuries, Jackson had a solid performance, finishing with two passing touchdowns and 54 rushing yards. With Andrews ruled out and Odell Beckham Jr. stepping up as the primary target, the Ravens look ahead to their next matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, while the Bengals, now at 5-5 and at the bottom of the AFC North, prepare for a crucial game against divisional rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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