Joe Flacco Leads Bengals Into Crucial Ravens Matchup: Stats, Storylines, and What’s Next

Joe Flacco Steps Up for Cincinnati Amid Burrow’s Absence

It’s Week 13 in the NFL, and the Cincinnati Bengals are riding a wave of uncertainty into a primetime clash with the Baltimore Ravens. The headline isn’t just the matchup—it’s the man under center. Joe Flacco, the seasoned quarterback with a Super Bowl ring and a reputation for ice-cool decision-making, is set to start his sixth consecutive game for the Bengals. The reason? Joe Burrow, the franchise’s star, remains sidelined by a turf toe injury that required surgery and has kept him out for nine straight games (AOL).

For Bengals fans, the last few weeks have been a rollercoaster. Burrow, who was expected to be the team’s engine, was practicing fully but ultimately wasn’t cleared for Week 12 against the Patriots. Head coach Zac Taylor stressed caution, noting the team’s packed schedule—two games in five days—and hinting that Burrow’s return could be targeted for the Thanksgiving night showdown against the Ravens. That means Flacco, acquired via trade from the Browns earlier this season, continues as the starter.

Flacco’s 2025 Performance: A Season of Highs and Lows

At 40, Flacco isn’t just filling in—he’s shaping the Bengals’ season. His latest outing, a 19-of-37 effort for 183 yards, one touchdown, and one interception against the Patriots, was solid but unspectacular (USA TODAY Network). The week prior, he struggled in a 34-12 loss to the Steelers, throwing 23-for-40 for 199 yards and a costly pick-six. Yet, Flacco’s overall numbers suggest a quarterback who’s weathering the storm: 2,451 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions with a completion rate just over 60%. He’s also added a rushing touchdown—no small feat for a player with his mileage.

Flacco’s game log tells a story of resilience and adaptation. He’s had explosive performances, like a 470-yard, four-touchdown shootout against the Bears in Week 9, and a 342-yard, three-touchdown game versus the Steelers in Week 7. But there have been rough patches, too—multiple games with two or more interceptions and periods where the offense sputtered. Still, Flacco’s connection with star receiver Ja’Marr Chase has provided sparks of hope, even as the team’s record has suffered.

The Bengals’ Season: Defensive Struggles and Offensive Adjustments

While Flacco’s leadership has brought some stability, the Bengals’ woes are not limited to the quarterback position. Cincinnati’s defense ranks worst in the NFL in key metrics—allowing an eye-popping 418.2 yards and 33.4 points per game. That’s a tough environment for any offense to overcome. Since Burrow’s injury, the Bengals have gone 1-7, and the pressure is mounting as the postseason window narrows.

The decision to keep Burrow sidelined, despite his full participation in practice, signals a strategic approach to player health and long-term franchise stability. The coaching staff faces a delicate balancing act: push for wins now, or prioritize Burrow’s recovery for future seasons? Meanwhile, Flacco’s presence as a veteran stabilizer is clear. He’s limited turnovers, kept drives alive, and given the Bengals a fighting chance, even if the results haven’t always followed.

Looking Ahead: Ravens Rematch and Flacco’s Future

This week’s matchup against the Ravens is laden with narrative threads. Flacco, once the face of Baltimore’s franchise, now leads their division rival under the Thursday night lights. There’s a symmetry in this moment—a former Raven returning to challenge his old team, now wearing Bengal stripes. For fans eager to witness it live, tickets are available on StubHub, and the game will be broadcast nationally on NBC and Peacock, with regional streaming on Fubo (USA TODAY Network).

Beyond this game, questions linger about Flacco’s future. At 40, he’s expressed hope to continue as a starter next season, whether in Cincinnati or elsewhere. With Burrow’s return still uncertain and the Bengals’ playoff hopes fading, Flacco’s performance in these crucial games could shape his legacy—and his career trajectory.

For Bengals supporters, the narrative is bittersweet. There’s nostalgia in seeing Flacco command the huddle, but also impatience for Burrow’s dynamic playmaking. The team’s fortunes hang in the balance, and the next few weeks will reveal whether experience can trump adversity.

Ticket Info, Betting Cautions, and Broadcast Details

For those looking to catch Flacco in action, tickets for the Bengals-Ravens showdown can be found on StubHub. The game kicks off at 8:20 p.m. ET on November 27, 2025, and will be broadcast on NBC/Peacock. Live streaming is available via Fubo, though regional restrictions may apply. As always, fans are reminded to gamble responsibly, and to verify all ticket and betting information before making purchases (USA TODAY Network).

The Bengals’ editorial team at USA TODAY Network emphasizes that while recommendations for tickets and betting services are provided, the newsroom remains independent, and all gambling comes with risk. For those struggling with gambling issues, help is available through the National Council on Problem Gambling.

Joe Flacco’s current run with the Bengals is a testament to the unpredictable, human side of professional football. His resilience and adaptability have kept Cincinnati competitive in a difficult season, even as the team grapples with injuries and defensive struggles. Whether Flacco’s efforts are enough to steer the Bengals back on course or simply provide a bridge to Burrow’s return remains to be seen—but his leadership is a reminder that experience and grit still matter in the NFL.