Get ready for some thrilling NFL action as the Cincinnati Bengals prepare for their Thursday night showdown against the Baltimore Ravens!
The highly anticipated return of Joe Burrow
Bengals coach Zac Taylor has confirmed that star quarterback Joe Burrow is expected to make his comeback this Thursday. Burrow has been out for the past eight games due to a turf toe injury sustained back in September.
"I'm confident he'll be ready," Taylor stated, adding that the team will continue to monitor his progress throughout the week.
And here's where it gets controversial...
The Bengals have taken a strategic move by waiving Sean Clifford, who had been holding a roster spot as a reserve quarterback. This opens the door for Burrow's return, but it also raises questions about the team's depth at the position.
Burrow had a full week of practice before the team's recent loss to the New England Patriots, but Taylor opted to start veteran Joe Flacco to give Burrow some extra rest ahead of a short week.
The Bengals are currently 3-8, heading into their Thanksgiving Day game against the Ravens. This was initially the game Burrow had targeted for his comeback, and he's made significant progress without any setbacks.
But will Flacco continue as Burrow's backup? Taylor confirmed that Flacco will be the backup moving forward, despite the team's 1-5 record with him as the starter.
And this is the part most people miss...
Burrow has had a history of severe injuries throughout his six NFL seasons. Each season has brought a major injury or recovery from significant surgery. Before this season, he had played at least 10 games, but with his Week 13 return, he's looking at a maximum of eight games this season.
However, as he pointed out earlier in November, this will be his first time returning from injured reserve mid-season.
After Sunday's game, the Bengals find themselves three games behind the Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers, who both have a 6-5 record. Cincinnati split their games with Pittsburgh this season and will face Baltimore twice in the next three weeks.
According to ESPN's Football Power Index, the Bengals have just a 1% chance of making the playoffs, and it's predicted they'll lose the next three games.
Despite the slim odds, Burrow is determined to get back on the field.
"He's put in the work to get himself ready," Taylor said after the loss to the Patriots. "He's a competitor, and we all want to see him out there. We're focused on winning, and that's what will drive our decision."
Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden praised Burrow's dedication, saying, "What he did last week is truly inspiring. It motivates us as a defense, the players, and the coaches. It goes beyond football."
But Burrow won't be the only player returning on Thursday. Wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase is back after serving a one-week suspension for an incident with Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey. Backup running back Samaje Perine could also be available after an injury in Week 9.
Unfortunately, the Bengals won't be at full strength. Wide receiver Tee Higgins and backup running back Tahj Brooks will miss Thursday's game due to concussion protocol, and defensive end Trey Hendrickson will miss his fourth straight game with a hip injury.
So, will the Bengals be able to turn things around with Burrow's return? Can they overcome the odds and make a playoff push? What do you think? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
