The Cincinnati Bengals got Joe Burrow back and beat the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving, 32-14.
Burrow looked good in the first half while attempting 32 passes before really kicking into gear in a second half that featured two passing scores and a defense that forced five turnovers.
While the first half was a tale of missed opportunities, as the Bengals forced three Ravens turnovers, only to settle for four Evan McPherson field goals for a 12-7 halftime score, Burrow’s side held strong and pushed through, rather than collapse.
Here are some quick notes, stats to know and takeaways from the AFC North clash.
Quick thoughts
Key stat
1-of-6: The number of successful redzone trips for the Bengals. They kept making it down where it matters most, only for the play calls and execution to come up short. Some of it was Burrow rust and mobility, the rest was the coaching. It’s an area they’ll need to improve by the week.
Top takeaway
Hope: And just like that, the Bengals are alive. They’re 4-8 now and have a chance to hand the Ravens a second loss in three weeks just two games from now. If they keep knocking down the AFC North leader and win out, playoffs remain a possibility.
What’s Next?
The Bengals get a bit of an extended break before a Week 14 showdown on the road with the Buffalo Bills. That’s another contest that will have heavy playoff implications in the AFC.
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This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Instant analysis after Bengals beat Ravens in Joe Burrow’s return
Reporting by Chris Roling, Bengals Wire / Bengals Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
