As we sit down for turkey and stuffing, Baltimore Ravens fans have plenty to be thankful for this year. Baltimore is sitting at 8-4, firmly in the AFC playoff picture, and has already swept the Cincinnati Bengals this season. Meanwhile, Cincinnati’s 4-7 record leaves them clinging to a slim chance of postseason play. For Ravens fans, it’s a great time to appreciate just how good things are compared to the chaos down in Cincinnati.
The Ravens have put together an impressive season, led by Lamar Jackson and a balanced roster. Baltimore’s offense ranks second in points per game at 30.3, powered by Jackson’s MVP-caliber play. The defense has also been making strides, with improvements in key moments, allowing the team to control games and close out tight contests.
Sweeping the Bengals this season was the icing on the cake. Those victories highlighted Baltimore’s confidence in handling their division rivals and set a positive tone for their playoff push. With a 98% chance of making it to the postseason, the Ravens are firmly in control of their destiny.
Cincinnati Bengals have had an awful 2024 season
The Bengals, on the other hand, entered the year with Super Bowl aspirations. After starting slow, they’ve stumbled into November with a 4-7 record and only a 15% chance of making the playoffs. Their defense has been the main culprit, giving up 26.9 points per game, which ranks 28th in the league. They are also allowing touchdowns on a staggering 70.59% of opponent red zone trips, the second-worst rate in the NFL.
Despite Joe Burrow leading a top-ranked passing attack (262.7 yards per game), the Bengals’ inability to run the ball effectively (91.5 rushing yards per game, 27th in the NFL) has left their offense one-dimensional. Pair that with a defense that ranks 27th in third-down conversion percentage and 30th in sack percentage, and it’s no wonder Cincinnati has struggled to close out games.
Baltimore and Cincinnati have gone in opposite directions this season. The Ravens have found ways to win close games, thanks to strong coaching and leadership from Jackson. Meanwhile, the Bengals are left trying gimmicks like bringing back ping-pong tables to boost morale. The return of locker-room games might lighten the mood, but it won’t fix their issues on the field.
Former Bengals running back Joe Mixon’s recent comments about the team’s mismanagement only highlight the dysfunction. Mixon, now thriving with the Texans, criticized Cincinnati for failing to maximize his skill set. His departure has left the Bengals’ run game floundering, further exposing their lack of balance on offense.
While the Bengals are trying to salvage their season with ping-pong and hope, the Ravens are gearing up for what could be a deep playoff run. Baltimore has handled its business on the field, and Ravens fans have every reason to feel confident heading into the final stretch.
So as you enjoy your Thanksgiving feast, be grateful you’re rooting for a team that knows how to win. This year, being a Ravens fan means having a lot to be thankful for.