Joe Burrow’s return to the Cincinnati Bengals was a success, as the veteran quarterback led the way to a 32-14 victory over the Baltimore Ravens to snap a four-game losing streak. The Bengals moved to 4-8 on the season, while the Ravens, winners of five straight games heading into their home game on Thursday night, fell to 6-6 on the year.
Bengals fans have been waiting ever so patiently for their franchise quarterback to return under center, and the wait was well worth it. It took Burrow a bit to get going, but once he found his rhythm with all his receivers, the vintage Bengals’ offense came out in Baltimore.
The game was a field goal affair in the first half, albeit Derrick Henry’s 28-yard touchdown run on the Ravens’ opening drive. Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, who have been criticized for looking sluggish and not too explosive despite the win streak, had issues taking care of the football on the night, resulting in three first-half fumbles.
There was some hope, though, when Bengals running back Samaje Perine fumbled on what should’ve been the game-sealing drive at the Baltimore 12-yard line. But the Ravens returned the favor five plays later, as Zay Flowers fumbled near midfield as the Ravens were trying desperately to drive down the field to make it a one-score game.
McPherson would drill his sixth field goal of the night and cap a much-needed victory for this Bengals squad.