Thanksgiving night football delivers one of the most anticipated storylines of the 2025 NFL season as Joe Burrow returns to action for the Cincinnati Bengals against their bitter AFC North rivals, the Baltimore Ravens. This isn't just another divisional gameāit's a nationally televised showcase that will answer questions that have lingered for weeks. Can Burrow recapture the magic that made him one of the league's elite quarterbacks? How will the Bengals offense look with their franchise cornerstone back under center? The entire football world will be watching Paycor Stadium on Thursday night.
The Ravens enter this contest as one of the NFL's most complete teams, sitting at 6-5 after winning five straight games. Baltimore's combination of Lamar Jackson's MVP-caliber play and Derrick Henry's punishing ground attack has created one of the league's most unstoppable offenses. The Ravens are averaging over 30 points per game and have won five of their last six contests. This is a team playing with supreme confidence and championship aspirations.
Cincinnati, despite their 3-8 record, is not a team to be dismissed. The Bengals have been competitive in most games, losing several contests by a single score. The missing ingredient has been obvious: Joe Burrow's transcendent talent elevates everyone around him. His return injects life into a season that seemed destined for disappointment. With Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and a suddenly resurgent running game, Cincinnati has the weapons to compete with anyone when Burrow is healthy.
The primetime Thanksgiving slot adds extra weight to this rivalry matchup. Both teams understand that AFC North games carry double importanceāthey affect divisional standings and often feature the physical, intense style of football that defines this division. The Ravens want to bury Cincinnati's playoff hopes, while the Bengals are fighting to prove their season isn't over and that Burrow's return can spark a late-season surge.
Joe Burrow's return from injury is the story that transcends this single game. The 28-year-old quarterback has established himself as one of the NFL's brightest stars, a player capable of carrying a franchise on his shoulders. His absence left a void that no backup could fill, and the Bengals' record reflects that reality. Now, with Burrow back under center, Cincinnati transforms from a struggling team into a dangerous one.
Before his injury, Burrow was playing at an elite level. He was completing 68.7% of his passes with a quarterback rating among the league leaders. His connection with Ja'Marr Chase remained telepathic, and his ability to extend plays and deliver strikes under pressure was as impressive as ever. The question now is how much rust he'll show after missing nine games and whether the surgically-repaired toe that sidelined him is truly 100% healthy.
Historically, quarterbacks returning from injury often take a game or two to find their rhythm. The timing with receivers needs recalibration, the pocket awareness can be slightly off, and the confidence in the injured body part builds gradually. However, Burrow isn't an ordinary quarterback. His mental processing speed, anticipation, and competitive fire often allow him to transcend typical recovery curves. The Bengals coaching staff has had weeks to design a game plan that eases him back while still maximizing his impact.
The emotional component cannot be understated. Burrow's return on Thanksgiving night, under the lights, against a division rivalāthis is the kind of moment that brings out the best in elite competitors. The Paycor Stadium crowd will be electric, the stakes are enormous for Cincinnati's fading playoff hopes, and Burrow has consistently risen to the occasion in big moments throughout his career. From the national championship at LSU to leading Cincinnati to the Super Bowl, he lives for these stages.
Watch for how the Bengals manage Burrow's workload in this game. They may lean heavily on the running game early to protect their quarterback and test his comfort level gradually. As the game progresses and Burrow finds his rhythm, expect the playbook to open up. The deep shots to Chase, the timing routes to Higgins, the check-downs to running backsāall the elements that make Cincinnati's offense dangerous should emerge as Burrow's confidence builds throughout the contest.
The Baltimore Ravens have constructed one of the NFL's most dominant teams through a combination of elite talent acquisition and schematic innovation. At 6-5 after a remarkable five-game winning streak, they're positioned as a legitimate playoff contender with the pieces to make a deep playoff run. The addition of Derrick Henry to an offense already featuring Lamar Jackson has created a ground game that opponents simply cannot stop.
Lamar Jackson is having another MVP-caliber season, showcasing growth as a passer while maintaining his otherworldly rushing ability. Jackson is averaging over 250 passing yards per game with a completion percentage above 67%. His touchdown-to-interception ratio remains elite, and his rushing production continues to give defenses nightmares. When Jackson is in rhythm, the Ravens offense operates at a level that few teams can match.
Derrick Henry has rejuvenated his career in Baltimore, proving that the "decline" narrative was premature. The former Titans star is averaging over 100 rushing yards per game and has found the end zone consistently. Henry's punishing running style wears down defenses over four quarters, making the Ravens increasingly dangerous as games progress. The combination of Henry's between-the-tackles power and Jackson's perimeter speed creates impossible choices for opposing defensive coordinators.
The Ravens' receiving corps has evolved to complement their ground-heavy attack. Mark Andrews remains a red zone weapon, while Zay Flowers has emerged as a legitimate number one receiver capable of winning contested catches and creating separation. The passing game may not be as prolific as some other offenses, but it's efficient and explosive when opportunities present themselves.
Defensively, Baltimore continues their tradition of physical, aggressive play. The Ravens rank among the league leaders in several defensive categories and have playmakers at every level. Their ability to generate pressure without blitzing allows them to drop into coverage and limit big plays. Against a quarterback returning from injury, the Ravens defense will look to test Burrow early and often, forcing him to prove his toe is fully healthy.
The Ravens' special teams have been a hidden advantage throughout the season. Justin Tucker remains the most accurate kicker in NFL history, giving Baltimore a reliable option from beyond 50 yards. The return game has produced several explosive plays, and the coverage units have limited opponents' field position advantages. In a game that could come down to field position and execution, Baltimore's special teams excellence provides a meaningful edge.
While Joe Burrow's return dominates the headlines, the Cincinnati Bengals have quietly assembled supporting pieces that make this offense dangerous. The 3-8 record tells a story of close losses and missed opportunities rather than a fundamentally flawed roster. With their franchise quarterback healthy, the Bengals have the talent to compete with anyone in the AFC.
Ja'Marr Chase has established himself as arguably the best receiver in football. His route running, contested catch ability, and yards-after-catch skills create matchup nightmares for any cornerback. Chase is on pace for another 1,400+ yard season despite the quarterback inconsistency during Burrow's absence. When Burrow targets Chase in one-on-one situations, the completion percentage is among the highest in the league. Their chemistry, developed since their LSU days, allows for anticipation throws that seem impossible to defend.
Tee Higgins provides the complementary presence that prevents defenses from doubling Chase on every snap. Higgins' size, contested catch ability, and route running make him a legitimate number one receiver on most NFL teams. His presence forces defenses to respect both sides of the field, opening up opportunities for Chase and the underneath routes. When healthy, the Chase-Higgins duo ranks among the best receiver tandems in football.
The Bengals' running game has shown improvement in recent weeks. The committee approach featuring Chase Brown and others has produced consistent yardage and kept defenses honest. While Cincinnati will never be a run-first team with Burrow under center, an effective ground game sets up play-action opportunities that make Burrow even more dangerous. The ability to move the chains on early downs keeps the offense in manageable situations.
Defensively, Cincinnati has been inconsistent but capable of big plays. The pass rush has generated pressure at times, and the secondary has made plays in coverage. The concern is consistencyāthe Bengals defense can look dominant one quarter and vulnerable the next. Against Baltimore's methodical, physical offensive approach, Cincinnati will need their best effort to prevent the Ravens from controlling time of possession and wearing down the defense.
The Bengals' coaching staff has had weeks to prepare for this moment. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher has surely designed a game plan that maximizes Burrow's strengths while accounting for any limitations from the injury. Expect creative formations, quick-hitting passes, and strategic deep shots designed to get the ball to playmakers in space. The preparation time could prove invaluable in getting Burrow comfortable quickly.
The chess match between these two teams will be decided by several crucial individual battles. Each matchup carries implications for how the game unfolds and which team can impose their will.
Ja'Marr Chase vs. Marlon Humphrey: This is the premier individual matchup of the game. Humphrey is one of the NFL's best cornerbacks, capable of blanketing elite receivers in man coverage. Chase is arguably the best receiver in football, able to win at all three levels. The Ravens may choose to bracket Chase with safety help, but that opens up opportunities for Higgins and the underneath receivers. How Baltimore defends Chaseāand how Burrow attacks that coverageācould determine the game's outcome.
Derrick Henry vs. Bengals Front Seven: Henry's ability to grind out tough yards and break big runs is central to Baltimore's offensive identity. The Bengals must stack the box at times to slow Henry, but that leaves them vulnerable to Lamar Jackson's play-action passing and scrambling. Cincinnati's defensive tackles will need to hold their gaps and force Henry to bounce runs outside, where the pursuit angles are better.
Lamar Jackson vs. Cincinnati's Secondary: When Jackson has time and finds receivers in space, the Ravens offense becomes nearly unstoppable. The Bengals secondary must limit explosive plays while also being disciplined enough not to bite on play-action fakes. If Cincinnati can force Jackson into third-and-long situations and win in obvious passing downs, they have a chance to get off the field.
Bengals Offensive Line vs. Ravens Pass Rush: Burrow's protection will be critical in his return game. The Ravens have capable pass rushers who will test Cincinnati's offensive line early and often. If Burrow has time to survey the field and deliver strikes, the Bengals can move the ball against anyone. If he's running for his life and taking hits, the rust from his absence will be magnified.
Third Down Conversions: Both teams' ability to sustain drives and stay on schedule will be crucial. Baltimore's methodical approach relies on converting third downs and keeping their defense rested. Cincinnati needs to capitalize on possessions and match the Ravens' efficiency. The team that wins the third down battle will likely control the game.
The numbers paint a fascinating picture of these two teams and what to expect on Thanksgiving night. Understanding the statistical context helps frame the matchup beyond the obvious storylines.
The Ravens rank second in the NFL in rushing yards per game at 182.4, a testament to the Lamar Jackson-Derrick Henry combination. Baltimore's commitment to the ground game sets up everything else they do offensively. They're also top five in time of possession, reflecting their ability to control games through sustained drives and physical play.
Baltimore's offense is averaging 30.2 points per game, ranking among the league's elite. Their scoring efficiency in the red zone exceeds 65%, showing they convert opportunities into touchdowns rather than settling for field goals. The Ravens have scored 28 or more points in seven of their twelve games, demonstrating consistent offensive production.
Defensively, the Ravens allow 19.8 points per game, a top-ten mark in the NFL. They're particularly stout against the run, limiting opponents to under 100 rushing yards per game. Against the pass, they've forced quarterbacks into difficult throws through tight coverage and strategic pressure packages.
The Bengals' offensive statistics are skewed by their quarterback situation, but the underlying metrics are encouraging. When Burrow played, Cincinnati averaged over 25 points per game. Ja'Marr Chase's receiving statistics place him among the league leaders in yards, touchdowns, and yards per reception. The offensive line has improved its pass protection metrics as the season progressed.
Cincinnati's defense has allowed 24.3 points per game, a figure that reflects their inconsistency. They've had dominant performances mixed with games where opponents moved the ball at will. Against Baltimore's physical rushing attack, the Bengals will need their front seven to be at their best to have any chance of slowing the Ravens' ground game.
Historical trends in this rivalry favor competitive games. The last ten Ravens-Bengals matchups have been decided by an average of 6.8 points, reflecting the intensity and familiarity of AFC North battles. Both teams know each other's tendencies, personnel, and schemes inside and out. Expect adjustments and counter-adjustments throughout the game.
The Thanksgiving primetime slot elevates this already compelling matchup to must-see television. Millions of football fans across the country will be watching as Joe Burrow returns to action on the biggest stage possible. The atmosphere at Paycor Stadium will be electric, with Cincinnati fans desperate to will their quarterback and team to a statement victory.
For the Ravens, this game represents an opportunity to make a statement about their championship credentials. Beating a division rival on national television, against a returning star quarterback, would demonstrate the mental toughness and focus that championship teams possess. Baltimore wants to send a message to the rest of the AFC that they're the team to beat.
For the Bengals, the stakes are even higher. At 3-8, their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread, but they're not mathematically eliminated. A win over Baltimore would inject life into their season and prove that Burrow's return is the missing piece that can transform this team. The emotional lift of beating a hated rival on Thanksgiving could spark a late-season run.
The national audience ensures that both teams will bring maximum effort and intensity. Players perform differently when the entire country is watchingāsome rise to the occasion while others shrink from the spotlight. This game will reveal character and competitive fire on both sidelines.
Joe Burrow's individual storyline adds another layer of intrigue. Can he recapture the magic immediately, or will rust show in his return game? How will he respond to his first hit? Will the surgically-repaired toe hold up under the strain of NFL-level competition? These questions will be answered in real-time, with millions watching every throw.
Several scenarios could unfold on Thanksgiving night, each with different implications for how the game plays out. Understanding the potential game scripts helps frame expectations.
Ravens Control Scenario: Baltimore establishes the run early, with Derrick Henry grinding out tough yards and Lamar Jackson keeping the defense honest with his legs. The Ravens control time of possession, keep Burrow and the Bengals offense on the sideline, and build a two-score lead. Cincinnati is forced to abandon their careful approach with Burrow and becomes one-dimensional, playing into Baltimore's defensive strengths.
Burrow Returns in Form: Burrow shows no rust and immediately connects with Chase and Higgins on timing routes. The Bengals move the ball efficiently, score touchdowns on their opening drives, and force Baltimore to abandon their ball-control approach. The game becomes a shootout that favors Cincinnati's passing attack and Burrow's ability to make plays in crucial moments.
Defensive Struggle: Both defenses rise to the occasion in the primetime spotlight. Neither offense can sustain drives, and the game becomes a field position battle decided by special teams and turnover margin. The team that makes fewer mistakes and capitalizes on the other's errors wins a low-scoring, physical AFC North slugfest.
Back-and-Forth Classic: The most entertaining possibilityāboth offenses find their rhythm, trading blows throughout the game. The lead changes multiple times, neither team can pull away, and the outcome is decided in the final minutes. This scenario showcases the star power on both sidelines and delivers the kind of memorable Thanksgiving game that lives in NFL lore.