The 2025 Thanksgiving game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals had all the makings of intense drama. After all, Joe Burrow was returning from his turf toe injury in the game. But in the end, it turned into a one-sided clash.
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The Bengals registered a comprehensive 32-14 win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Looking back, two factors stood out in the victory.
The first pivotal point in the game was Burrow’s form. He finished 24-46 for 261 yards and 2 TDs, which helped the Bengals control their offense. Additionally, their defense, which was slammed by analysts last year for allowing over 30 points per game, stood up to the task. The tactical effort by the Bengals was commendable, too. They almost perfectly controlled Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, limiting the Ravens’ movement.
In stark contrast to the Cowboys’ strategy of limiting Patrick Mahomes’ weapons in the second Thanksgiving game, the Bengals’ defense directly targeted Lamar, resulting in multiple fumbles and turnovers. Reflecting on the Thursday game, Shannon Sharpe spoke about how Lamar was rendered ineffective.
“The Bengals tonight, defense was as good a game as they’ve played in the last two years. They pressured Lamar,” Shannon said on Nightcap.
“Lamar was 17-32, 246 yards, 1 interception, and they forced four fumbles. Five total turnovers, the Bengals’ defense was sensational. It was a very disappointing game for the Baltimore Ravens. They needed to win this game to top the division. But Lamar didn’t have a great game,” he added, joking that his co-host Chad Johnson, a former Bengal, must be a happy man.
Lamar and Burrow, both of whom usually headline the MVP race, have had a quiet season due to injuries. Lamar has 1,841 passing yards, 15 TDs, and 4 INTs, while Burrow has 450 passing yards, 4 TDs, and 0 INTs.
Burrow’s honest response when asked why he was returning quickly from rehab when the Bengals were already 3-8 was also praiseworthy.
“We’re getting a lot of money to play a kids’ game. I just want to put on a show for the fans,” Burrow, who also won the Thanksgiving game MVP award, said.
The win helped the Bengals move to 4-8, yes. But realistically, they need to win all five remaining games and rely on other results to keep to make the playoffs. That’s tough.
The Ravens, who slipped to 6-6, are second in the AFC North, have tanked, mirroring the Chiefs. They need to win at least four of their next five games to stay in playoff contention.
Baltimore’s next game, on December 6 against the Steelers, who have a strong defense, won’t be easy for Lamar. For Burrow, it will be another big QB matchup against Josh Allen’s Bills on December 6.
