Bengals’ Playoff Hopes Rest on Frigid Showdown Against Ravens
As the Cincinnati Bengals prepare to face the Baltimore Ravens this Sunday, their playoff aspirations hang by a thread. With a record of 4-9, the Bengals currently hold the ninth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The stakes are high, and this game presents a critical opportunity for Cincinnati to keep their slim hopes alive.
Absences Loom Large
One of the most anticipated aspects of this matchup was the potential emergence of first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart. Hopes were high as Stewart was activated this week and participated fully in practice on Thursday. However, disappointment struck when he was officially ruled out on Saturday, leaving fans and coaches alike frustrated. Stewart has only seen action in five games this season, making four starts and accumulating just 177 defensive snaps. The expectation was for him to gain valuable experience in the final weeks, but that will have to wait, at least for this week.
In addition to Stewart, wide receiver Tee Higgins will also be sidelined due to concussion protocol. This development, while not unexpected, adds further strain to an already challenged roster. Higgins was a limited participant in practice leading up to the game, and the priority remains his health and recovery.
Frigid Conditions and High Stakes
The forecast for Sunday’s game is bleak, with temperatures expected to feel like they’re in the negatives. A high of just 12 degrees adds a layer of difficulty to an already tense rivalry. This matchup offers Cincinnati a chance to sweep the Ravens and, in doing so, keep their playoff hopes flickering. A victory could not only maintain their season but also serve as a significant blow to Baltimore’s momentum.
Joe Burrow, the Bengals’ quarterback, remains optimistic despite the challenging conditions and key player absences. He stated that the cold weather shouldn’t hinder their offensive performance, provided the ball remains manageable. With Higgins out of the equation, expect Mitch Tinsley to take on a more prominent role. Tinsley had a tough outing on Thanksgiving, catching only two of nine targets, but he will need to elevate his game this week.
Defensive Challenges Ahead
Cincinnati’s defense faces a formidable task in containing Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. The Bengals cannot rely on the same fortune they experienced in their last meeting, where turnovers played a crucial role. Jackson will not present the same opportunities for mistakes, and the Bengals must be ready to step up their game.
Defensively, it’s imperative that Cincinnati applies pressure on Jackson while also containing the run. With a player like Derrick Henry, allowing him to find his rhythm could spell disaster. The Bengals cannot afford to let either player break free for explosive runs; they need to prevent Jackson from averaging significant yardage per carry and ensure they control the ground game.
A Prediction for the Game
As the Bengals gear up for this vital contest, there’s a sense of determination in the air. Despite the challenges, the prediction remains steady: Cincinnati will find a way to secure the sweep against the Ravens. This will be a typical AFC North clash—gritty and hard-fought.
Final Score Prediction: Bengals 27, Ravens 24.
