Bengals - Ravens: 5 players to watch on NFL Thursday Night Football | Jackson, Agholor, Mitchell, Chase, Burrow

The Baltimore Ravens are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals in tonight’s Thursday night football clash, one of the year’s most anticipated matchups. Both teams have high-powered offenses led by young quarterbacks. The Bengals are desperate, aiming to rebound from recent losses, while the Ravens seek to extend their lead in the division race. The question is, what will it take for either team to win?

Given Cincinnati’s struggles to protect their quarterback, the significance of the Ravens’ pass rush against Joe Burrow cannot be overstated. The defensive challenge becomes even more crucial with the potential absence of key players like Kyle Van Noy. Nelson Agholor is identified as a possible X Factor for the Ravens when discussing the keys to victory. Agholor, known for making impactful plays, must step up and contribute to the team’s success.

The Bengals’ potent offense should not be feared, and exploiting weaknesses in their defense, particularly in allowing explosive plays, could be the key to victory for the Ravens. The following key revolves around controlling the time of possession, a strategy effectively implemented by Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken. The Ravens, leading the league in time of possession, can exploit the Bengals’ vulnerability when opponents possess the ball longer. A solid running game, mainly featuring Keaton Mitchell, is crucial to managing the clock effectively.

The Ravens must focus on finishing strong, avoiding late-game collapses that have plagued them in their three losses this season.

Without the services of wide receiver Tee Higgins, the Bengals face a formidable Ravens team. Burrow’s performance is critical, with the expectation that he must be at his best. The emphasis is on him, not just to make spectacular plays but to deliver top-tier performances.

In a press conference, Burrow acknowledged the need to enter “aggressive mode” strategically, understanding when to be aggressive and when to dial it back. The Bengals are counting on him to be a playmaker, especially in the absence of key players on both sides.

The discussion also delves into the defensive challenges the Bengals will encounter, particularly in containing Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. With injuries impacting the Bengals’ defensive line, players like Miles Murphy and DJ Reader must step up and disrupt the Ravens’ offensive rhythm.

Shifting the conversation to the offensive side and addressing the absence of Higgins and the need for additional playmakers. Jamar Chase becomes the focal point, with expectations that he can continue his dominant form. However, the Bengals will also look to other receivers, including Tyler Boyd, Andre Yavash, and potentially Charlie Jones, to make impactful plays.

The running game, led by Joe Mixon, is discussed, but the consensus is that the Bengals should primarily rely on the passing game to challenge the Ravens. The offensive line’s performance protects Burrow against a formidable Ravens front.

In summary, the Bengals face a daunting task on a short week, with injuries and challenges on both sides of the ball. The spotlight is on Joe Burrow and Jamar Chase to elevate the team, make explosive plays, and secure a vital win against a formidable division rival.