By Noah Trister
Updated 10:27 PM PST, November 27, 2025
BALTIMORE (AP) — Quarterback Joe Burrow made a strong return, leading the Cincinnati Bengals to a decisive 32-14 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night.
Burrow, who had been sidelined with an injury, displayed resilience and skill, throwing two touchdown passes in the second half. This win breaks the Baltimore Ravens’ five-game winning streak. Meanwhile, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson struggled, appearing uncertain and throwing costly turnovers.
“It’s great to see Joe Burrow back on the field,” said Bengals coach Zac Taylor. “He brings a sense of confidence and leadership to our team that’s hard to replace.”
The Ravens (6-6) suffered from multiple turnovers, losing three fumbles in the first half alone and five overall. These mistakes proved costly, disrupting their offensive flow and handing opportunities to the Bengals.
The Bengals (4-8) capitalized on the Ravens’ errors, maintaining possession for a significant portion of the game (38:46). Burrow completed 24 of 46 passes for 261 yards, while receiver Ja’Marr Chase contributed with seven receptions for 110 yards.
“I felt more comfortable as the game went on,” Burrow said, highlighting his growing confidence after returning from injury.
Tanner Hudson made an impressive one-handed catch in the end zone for a 14-yard touchdown, extending Cincinnati’s lead to 19-7 in the third quarter. Following a touchdown run by the Ravens’ Keaton Mitchell, Burrow responded with a 29-yard touchdown pass to Andrei Iosivas.
Later in the game, a pass by Jackson was intercepted by Demetrius Knight Jr., further hindering the Ravens’ comeback efforts.
“Turnovers are a recipe for disaster,” Jackson said, expressing his frustration with the team’s performance. “We have to protect the ball better if we want to win games.”
Jackson completed 17 of 32 passes for 246 yards. While the Ravens had previously recovered from a slow start to the season, their offensive struggles continued against the Bengals.
Derrick Henry scored an 18-yard touchdown on the Ravens’ opening drive, giving them an early lead. However, Jackson missed several open receivers and appeared rushed in the pocket, reflecting challenges faced by the offensive line throughout the season.
Jackson lost a fumble while being sacked, gifting the Bengals possession near the goal line. Although Cincinnati failed to score on that particular drive, the Ravens’ problems persisted. Isaiah Likely fumbled near the goal line, resulting in a turnover. Later, a touchdown by Zay Flowers was nullified by a penalty, and Jackson fumbled again before halftime.
Despite the Ravens’ miscues, the Bengals only held a narrow 12-7 lead at halftime. However, they extended their advantage in the third quarter with a touchdown drive capped off by Hudson’s impressive catch.
Defensive Stand
This game marked the Bengals’ best defensive performance of the season, holding the Ravens to their lowest point total.
“Our defense set the tone for the game,” Taylor said. “They played with energy and determination, making it difficult for the Ravens to move the ball.”
Milestones
Ravens receiver DeAndre Hopkins reached 1,000 career receptions, while tight end Mark Andrews became the team’s all-time leader in catches with 473.
Henry surpassed Jim Brown for 11th on the NFL’s career rushing list, reaching 13,354 yards.
Injuries
Bengals: LB Brian Asamoah II suffered a knee injury.
Ravens: CB Nate Wiggins (foot) missed the second half, impacting the defense. LB Chandler Martin injured a knee in the first half. RB Justice Hill was placed on injured reserve before the game.
Looking Ahead
Bengals: At Buffalo on Dec. 7.
Ravens: Host Pittsburgh on Dec. 7.
