Joe Burrow’s Impact Fuels Bengals’ Ascent as AFC North Contenders
CINCINNATI —- The Cincinnati Bengals are quickly establishing themselves as the most formidable team in the AFC North following a decisive 32-14 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving Day. At the heart of this resurgence is the return of quarterback Joe Burrow, whose presence has reinvigorated the entire roster and given the team a renewed sense of purpose.
Offensive Line’s Stellar Performance
One of the standout aspects of this recent victory was the performance of the Bengals’ offensive line, which achieved what could be considered its best outing of the season. The unit recorded a remarkable pass-blocking grade of 91.1 against the Ravens, according to Pro Football Focus. This stellar performance was anchored by left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., who led the charge with an impressive 91.5 pass-blocking grade in Week 13.
Brown recognizes the transformative effect Burrow has on the team. “He just has ‘It’, you know what I mean?” said Brown. “Whatever ‘It’ is, he has it. It creates a sense of confidence in the building and instills confidence in each player, especially on a professional level.”
Burrow’s Leadership Resonates
Brown further illustrated the intangible qualities Burrow brings to the Bengals, likening them to the confidence seen in other successful teams, such as the New England Patriots under rookie quarterback Drake Maye. “When a team has confidence in the guy under center, what you can do is broadened; it’s unreal,” he explained. “He’s not a big yeller or screamer, but he holds you accountable like every great player does. He just has ‘It,’ and that’s our guy.”
Bengals’ Confidence in the AFC North
When discussing the Bengals’ standing within the competitive landscape of the AFC North, Brown exuded confidence. “We do feel confident,” he said, noting that this belief existed even before Burrow’s return. “But just adding him back into the picture adds even more confidence, man. I think we match up really well in our division.”
With upcoming games against Baltimore and a season finale against Cleveland, the Bengals are poised to make a significant impact in the division. “We’ve got a hungry group that’s never gonna quit,” Brown asserted.
Looking Ahead
As the Bengals prepare for a crucial matchup against the Buffalo Bills this Sunday, they have an opportunity to further solidify their playoff aspirations. A victory could draw them within one game of the Steelers or Ravens in the tightly contested AFC North. The atmosphere around the team is electric, and the momentum is clearly on their side.
The Bengals are ready to keep their playoff hopes alive and prove that they can contend with anyone in the league.
