Ravens shut out Bengals 24-0, marking first shutout since 2018; Burrow held to 58.2 rating
The Baltimore Ravens achieved a commanding 24-0 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, marking their first shutout in seven years and highlighting a significant turnaround in their season.
Why it matters: This victory not only boosts the Ravens' playoff hopes but also serves as a pivotal moment for a team that had struggled against division rivals in recent outings.
- With this win, Baltimore improved to a 7-7 record, putting them within striking distance of the first-place Pittsburgh Steelers.
- The Ravens playoff chances are now estimated at 48% according to ESPN Analytics, emphasizing the importance of each game as the season approaches its climax.
What’s new: The Ravens’ defense executed a near-flawless performance, holding Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow to a dismal 58.2 passer rating—the second lowest of his career.
- Notable contributions came from safety Ed Reed, whose pre-game visit inspired the team, and cornerback Marlon Humphrey, who emphasized the motivation drawn from Reed's legacy.
By the numbers: The Ravens recorded their first shutout since 2018, showcasing a defense that has significantly improved despite harsh weather conditions.
- The game was played in frigid temperatures, with a wind chill dropping to minus-1 degree, marking the coldest game in Ravens history.
- Burrow was intercepted twice and unable to find the end zone, illustrating the effectiveness of Baltimore's defensive schemes.
Yes, but: While the Ravens celebrated a dominant defensive showing, questions remain about the Bengals' struggles, particularly considering this was Burrow’s first career shutout in 74 games.
- Head coach John Harbaugh noted the importance of the shutout while acknowledging the challenges ahead, underscoring that the Bengals were less prepared than expected.
Zoom In: A highlight of the game was linebacker Kyle Van Noy’s interception, which he lateraled to safety Alohi Gilman for a touchdown, epitomizing the Ravens' aggressive defensive strategy.
- This play not only showcased individual athleticism but also reflected a cohesive team effort, as multiple players contributed to the outstanding performance.
What’s next: Moving forward, the Ravens will need to maintain this momentum as they seek to solidify their playoff spot in a competitive AFC North.
- As they prepare for upcoming matchups, maintaining defensive consistency will be key, especially against stronger offenses.
The bottom line: The Ravens demonstrated resilience and adaptability in their shutout victory, positioning themselves favorably as the playoffs loom on the horizon.
- For the Bengals, this defeat serves as a stark reminder of the challenges they face in regaining their form.
