Bengals vs. Ravens: Lamar Jackson Leads Baltimore to Thrilling 35-34 Win Over Cincinnati on Thursday Night Football

In an unforgettable Thursday Night Football showdown, the Baltimore Ravens emerged victorious over the Cincinnati Bengals with a dramatic 35-34 comeback, solidifying their position as AFC North leaders. Baltimore, trailing by 14 points in the third quarter, surged back into contention, led by Lamar Jackson’s electrifying fourth-quarter performance and a pivotal forced fumble by cornerback Marlon Humphrey that shifted the game’s momentum.

Humphrey’s strip of Bengals running back Chase Brown set the stage for the Ravens’ offense, which had struggled early but burst to life in the second half. Jackson capitalized on the turnover, igniting a 21-point run that ultimately gave Baltimore the lead. Jackson completed 25 of 33 passes for 290 yards and four touchdowns, including a stunning 84-yard touchdown pass to Tylan Wallace and the eventual game-winner to Rashod Bateman with less than two minutes on the clock. Jackson’s mastery outside the pocket led to two long touchdowns, extending his lead over all other quarterbacks in this category and marking his second game-winning drive of the season.

Cincinnati, though ultimately unsuccessful, showcased offensive firepower behind quarterback Joe Burrow, who threw for 428 yards and four touchdowns. Burrow’s connection with star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase was especially potent, with Chase amassing 264 receiving yards and three touchdowns, setting records for most yards by one player against a single opponent in a season. After falling behind late in the game, Burrow led Cincinnati to a last-minute touchdown drive and attempted a two-point conversion to take the lead, but Baltimore’s defense made a crucial stand, sealing their one-point victory.

The Ravens’ victory came despite defensive challenges, particularly after All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton left the game with an ankle injury. Without Hamilton, Baltimore’s defense was susceptible to deep plays, allowing Chase to exploit the secondary. Nonetheless, Baltimore’s defensive line made key contributions, including Justin Madubuike’s career-high three sacks. Despite struggles in coverage, the Ravens' defensive front managed to contain Burrow in critical moments, proving just enough to edge out the Bengals.

For the Bengals, the loss highlights recurring issues with execution under pressure. Despite a strong first half, Cincinnati’s defense struggled to contain Jackson’s offensive onslaught in the second half, allowing three long touchdown drives. A missed tackle on Wallace’s 84-yard score and failed pass-rushing attempts allowed Jackson to make big plays, especially in the final quarter. As a result, Cincinnati’s defense, which had been disciplined early on, unraveled late in the game as Baltimore shifted into high gear.

This game not only reinforced Jackson’s dominance in close AFC North games but also showcased the Ravens’ resilience and offensive versatility. Baltimore's receiving corps stepped up as Wallace and Bateman took on larger roles, while veteran kicker Justin Tucker bounced back from an early missed extra point to help keep Baltimore in the game. Baltimore now stands at 7-3, tied for first in the division, as they prepare for another key matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Bengals, meanwhile, fall to 4-6 and face an uphill battle in the AFC playoff picture. Burrow and Chase have been prolific, but Cincinnati’s tendency for late-game errors and defensive lapses raises questions about their postseason potential. As they head to face the Los Angeles Chargers, the Bengals are left to regroup and confront these critical issues, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread.