Lamar Jackson shines as Ravens shut out Bengals in dominant revenge win
The Baltimore Ravens turned the tables on the Cincinnati Bengals in a decisive manner during their Week 15 matchup, securing a commanding 24-0 shutout victory. This performance came as a much-needed redemption following Baltimore’s disappointing Thanksgiving Day loss, and the Ravens didn’t just win; they dominated.
Defensive Masterclass
From the kickoff, it was clear that Baltimore’s defense was on a mission. They stifled the Bengals’ offense, forcing two turnovers and limiting Cincinnati to under 300 total yards. This defensive prowess was a significant factor in the Ravens’ ability to control the game, ensuring that the Bengals never found their rhythm.
Lamar Jackson’s Resurgence
At the forefront of this victory was Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who delivered a performance that fans had been eagerly awaiting. Jackson completed 8 of 12 passes for 150 yards, tossing two touchdowns against one interception, while also contributing 26 rushing yards.
After a stretch of five games where he completed less than 60 percent of his passes, Jackson broke that streak with an impressive completion rate of 66.7 percent. Despite attempting only 12 passes, his efficiency stood out, showcasing a more polished version of the quarterback who has previously earned MVP honors.
A Moment of Controversy
While Jackson’s numbers may not have appeared stellar at first glance, the interception he threw was not entirely his fault. A catchable pass intended for wide receiver Zay Flowers was dropped, deflecting into the hands of a defender. This moment aside, Jackson’s performance was significantly improved, marking his first game with a completion percentage over 75% since the encounter against the Miami Dolphins.
Looking Ahead
With this win, the Ravens improved to a 7-7 record and now face a challenging stretch of games against formidable opponents, including the New England Patriots, Green Bay Packers, and Pittsburgh Steelers. For Baltimore to secure a playoff spot and contend for the AFC North title, they will need Jackson to elevate his game further and lead the charge.
The Bengals game served as a crucial stepping stone for Jackson, who will undoubtedly need to channel his inner Superman in the weeks to come as the Ravens push for postseason glory. The momentum gained from this shutout could be just what Baltimore needs to navigate the tough road ahead.
