The Baltimore Ravens were coming off an excruciating loss to the Cleveland Browns just a few days ago. Watching as leads of 17-3, 24-9, and 31-17 go up in smoke in a 33-31 loss. The Ravens had to quickly put that to the side on Thursday Night Football with the Cincinnati Bengals coming into town who were desperate for a win after a loss of their own last week. The game started as expected, with both teams trading points. However, with the Bengals up 10-7 after a touchdown drive, things shifted as Joe Burrow went down with an arm injury. After that, it was all Ravens as they cruised to a 34-20 win.
Ravens Win But Lose Mark Andrews For The Season
Running Game On Point
One week after the Ravens were criticized for now running the ball enough, Baltimore had their way on the ground against a Bengals defense with no Sam Hubbard. Gus Edwards, Keaton Mitchell, and Lamar Jackson combined for 149 of the Ravens 157 yards rushing. Edwards scored two more touchdowns on the day, which gives him nine for the season. Baltimore’s rushing attack with Jackson, Mitchell, and Edwards can be very dangerous as the season inches closer to December and down the stretch run.
Odell Beckham Jr’s Goes For 100
It’s been a tough and trying season for Odell Beckham Jr, but things might be picking up for him. Over the last few weeks, Beckham has scored two touchdowns, and on Thursday night, he went for over 100 yards receiving and catching four passes for 116 yards on the day. He was shifty, making Bengals defenders miss and getting yards after the catch once again. He caught a 51-yard deep pass from Jackson in the 4th quarter. If Beckham can continue this as a reliable receiver for Jackson and make big plays, then the sky is the limit for him and this offense.
Defense Feasts On The Rookie
Things didn’t start so hot for the Ravens defense. Joe Mixon was having a strong night early on the ground, and Burrow was gaining momentum. After Burrow’s injury, the Ravens defense would overall have their way against Bengals rookie quarterback Jake Browning. Baltimore sacked him three times, and Browning was constantly under duress. The Ravens added five more sacks to their season tally as their pass rush continues to be a force. The sacks on the night belonged to Justin Madubuike, Odafe Oweh, Tavius Robinson, Kyle Van Noy, and Jadeveon Clowney. Once Browning entered the game, the Ravens also zeroed in on Mixon and limited him throughout the second half. Baltimore didn’t force any turnovers on the night, but they didn’t need to.
Mark Andrews Done For The Season
Like the Bengals, the Ravens didn’t come out of this game unscathed. During their opening possession, tight end Mark Andrews was tackled and left the game with an ankle injury. He walked off the field and into the locker room with a noticeable limp. It didn’t look good, and after the game, head coach John Harbaugh confirmed the worst. Harbaugh explained that Andrews’ injury is season-ending. Harbaugh also said he believes there is additional damage to the ankle. In his place, second-year player Isiah Likely will take over as the lead tight end. Beckham also left the game late with a shoulder injury after his big 51-yard catch, but Harbaugh said it doesn’t look too bad. Jackson was also battling through pain tonight as he went into the medical tent to check out his ankle after getting tackled near the sidelines. After the game, Jackson said that he felt good.
What’s Next?
The Ravens will enjoy ten days off as they head to Inglewood, California, next week to play the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers are coming off a tough loss to the Detroit Lions last week and will play the Green Bay Packers at home this Sunday. The Ravens lead the all-time series 8-6.
Main Photo Credit: Syndication: USA TODAY
