Bengals Defense Capitalizes on Ravens' Turnovers in Thanksgiving Matchup
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The Cincinnati Bengals delivered a dominant performance against the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving, winning 32-14 and significantly impacting the Ravens' playoff hopes. The Bengals' defense was a standout, forcing five turnovers, including four fumbles and a crucial interception.
According to Baltimore Beatdown, the turnovers plagued the Ravens, with three of the fumbles committed by quarterback Lamar Jackson in a game where he failed to score a touchdown for the third consecutive outing.
Jackson's struggles were compounded by a lack of offensive cohesion, with the Ravens unable to capitalize on their defensive stops. Despite holding the Bengals to just six points off those early turnovers, Baltimore's offense could not muster enough to stay competitive, trailing 19-7 by halftime.
The Ravens did show some life in the third quarter, with a touchdown run by Keaton Mitchell narrowing the deficit to five points. However, the Bengals quickly responded with another touchdown, extending their lead back to two scores.
Notably, Jackson's performance saw him throw an interception that was tipped at the line and caught by Bengals linebacker Demetrius Knight, who returned it for a field goal. The Ravens' defense, despite their efforts, faced a significant challenge due to the offense's inability to maintain possession, resulting in a time-of-possession disparity that left them vulnerable.
The game marked a turning point for the Bengals, showcasing significant defensive improvements that could be pivotal for their future success. The Ravens' inability to protect the ball and execute plays effectively has raised questions about their playoff viability as they now sit at 6-6, facing a tough schedule ahead.
The Bengals' defense, often criticized earlier in the season, has now emerged as a formidable unit, capable of capitalizing on opponents' mistakes and setting the tone for their games. As the season progresses, the Bengals' ability to maintain this defensive performance will be crucial for their aspirations in the AFC North and potential playoff run.