November 26, 2025 • 28 mins
Team insiders Ryan Mink and Garrett Downing discuss Joe Burrow’s return, whether it could be a bounce-back game for Baltimore’s offense, the key to slowing the Bengals’ offense and more ahead of the AFC North Thanksgiving showdown.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:04):
Welcome into the Lounge presented by DraftKings. I'm Ryan Ink
here with Garrett Downing, and we are going to get
you ready for the Thanksgiving feast at em and T
Banks Stadium between the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals. Huge
game between two division rivals, and Garrett, I just cannot
wait for this one.
Speaker 2 (00:24):
This game has all the gravy served in a beautiful
gravy boat.
Speaker 1 (00:28):
That's right.
Speaker 2 (00:29):
I don't know if you're planning that, but that was
well done and you're part there. We are giving away
gravy boats. That's the giveaway.
Speaker 1 (00:35):
I got mine ahead of time.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
Yeah, Well, for fans who're comming of the game Thursday
night at Mt BAK Stadium, you can get your gravy boat.
And this is an awesome game. This is a headliner.
When the schedule comes out and you see the prime
time games, you see that the Ravens are playing on
Thanksgiving at home against the Bengals in this big division rival.
I think it's going to be an awesome atmosphere. And
John Harbaugh has been this will be the third time
(00:57):
the Ravens have played on Thanksgiving in the Harball era.
Sign was against his brother. Second time was against the Steelers,
the iconic Mike Tomlins Jacobe Jones game. We all remember
that one, and this will be the third time. And
Harwell has said he said it again this week, and
he's made this point a few times. He's like, I
would love for the Ravens to be the Thursday night
Thanksgiving game. You know, I like that idea and loves
(01:19):
playing on Thanksgiving. Considers hid an honor and it is
an indication that the NFL knows people want to watch
Lamar Jackson and the Ravens play, and this is going
to be an awesome night.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
To do it well. The schedule makers gave the Ravens
Christmas off this year and decided the move with the
Thanksgiving and.
Speaker 2 (01:33):
It's at home this year, so it's a home game
and thanks every time. Two for two.
Speaker 1 (01:36):
I'll take that every time. You know this, this is
a game between the Bengals team with their backs against
the wall, three and eight. You know, they probably to
get even back in the hunt, they got to ride
off a string of wins similar to what the Ravens
have done to call back from one to five. The
Ravens riding a five game winning streak but you know
all that aside, like you can talk, Bengals have not
(01:59):
had a good season. Joe Burr has been hurt for
almost all of it. That's a major reason why their
defensive struggle. But like, throw all that stuff out. Throw
This is a throw the records game out, and it
often is whenever you're playing a division rival. But man,
these two teams get after it.
Speaker 2 (02:16):
I agree with you. I also think that you can
kind of throw the records out when you play on
Thursday nights, like the short week. I just feel like
a lot of times those can sometimes be weird games.
And like you mentioned, Joe Burrow and that's one of
the biggest storylines this week is is him returning and
he's dealt with that toe injury. Coming back for Thanksgiving
(02:36):
Night is earlier than a lot of people expected. It
is clear that he wanted to come back for this
game against the Ravens.
Speaker 1 (02:42):
Ye had it circled and there was no doubt about it.
He had it circle. When that the schedule came out.
He was bellyaching about how the Ravens, you know, they
always have to play on some primetime games in our stadium. Yeah,
this was circled. Yeah, I mean the Ravens ended his
season a couple of years ago with the wrist that
was in Baltimore, and so like this has turned into
(03:02):
a big rivalry. I think it's not only it's been
a Ravens Bengals rivalry for a long time, but I
think it's a Joe Burrow Ravens rivalry as well.
Speaker 2 (03:09):
It definitely seems that way, Like he seems to want
to have big games against the Ravens, which he has
at times, he wants to play the Ravens. There seems
to be some whatteter animosity, whatever word you want to use.
And like even on his first day back at practice
when he came back earlier than expected from the toe
injury and the reports were out there that he's going
to be returning around Thanksgiving, and he was asked about
(03:31):
the significance of playing against the Ravens, and he made
the point that it would be very meaningful to come
back and play this game against the Ravens. So I'm
with you, Like, I think this is a game that
he had circled, that he was doing everything possible that
he could to come back and play, and like the Bengals,
their odds of making the playoffs are long at this point,
but they're not completely out of it yet. There's still
(03:52):
there's still time left. They'd have to run the table.
And this is this is like a back against the wall.
You're getting your quarterback back in the lineup. Who who?
And even if you like, even if you remove the
playoff conversation to your point, he just wants to beat
the Ravens.
Speaker 1 (04:07):
Yeah, exactly. That's why I think a lot of people,
or some people at least, are saying, why are they
why are they rushing Joe Burrow back when they're three
and eight and out of it? Pretty much because he
wants to play and he wants to beat the Ravens. Yeah, Like,
you know, I respect Joe Burrow. Like, dude's a competitor,
very good player, competitor. Respect him. Hope we beat you know,
(04:28):
just beat them bad on Thanksgiving night, but like respect
and like that's the kind of competitor that you want
to see as a fan. And somebody watching the game,
like does it records? He doesn't care what the record is.
He wants to come back in here and play against
his rival.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
Yeah, And and the Ravens are gonna have to contend
with that. I think it's it's certainly a question, and I.
Speaker 1 (04:48):
Kind of Joe Joe Flacco coming back to them asy
back Stadium would have been cool too.
Speaker 2 (04:52):
We always saw that this year happened. We saw that
we already did that. He already did that podcast two
months ago.
Speaker 1 (04:58):
That's true, it is.
Speaker 2 (04:59):
It is kind of crazy when you think about like
the possibility of seeing Flacco three times in one season. Yeah,
it doesn't seem like that's going to be the case now,
but but he'll be on the other sideline at least,
so you'll see him in that sense.
Speaker 1 (05:09):
But well, Dennis Pitt come back with his flack.
Speaker 2 (05:12):
That's a good question. But let's called Pitt. Let's get
pitted back on the podcast. I think that it is
interesting with Burrow as we talk about him what that
will look like because he hasn't played and is that
is he rusty? I would expect there to mab be
a little bit of rust. Is he fully healthy? Is
he hobbled at all? Is he moving around in the pocket?
Speaker 1 (05:33):
He basically he's gonna wear steel toe boots out there.
Speaker 2 (05:36):
Well that there's purports that he can have some sort
of contraption in the shoe to protect his toe. Like
brock Perty just came back from having a tow injury,
and you know, it was a little bit shaky for him.
I don't know if it's the exact same or whatever,
but like a toe injury is not good for anybody.
It's just it's and this was a major injury that
a lot of people thought. Like when this news came
out that that that he had this toe injury, I
think a lot of people said, like, his season's done. Yep,
(05:58):
that was the that was the thought. And so he's
back way sooner than expected. The next piece of that
question is what he looks like now that he's back
on the field, and is he limited in any capacity.
Speaker 1 (06:09):
I mean, Joe Burrow has never been a running quarterback. Now,
he can maneuver in the pocket, and his ability to
extend plays is certainly part of his game. He can
he can get out and kind of pick up first
downs with his legs, But I don't expect that the
toe probably limits him all that much. There could be
(06:30):
a Russ factor. He hasn't played in quite some time.
He's practiced now for two weeks. He practiced all last
week leading into the Bengals game, and didn't end up starting, obviously,
but but he's had three weeks I believe now under
his belt of practice, including two as the starter. Yeah,
(06:50):
this is a half a week, but he's still had that,
so he's had practice time to shake off the rust.
Speaker 2 (06:56):
But that's not the second game. That's not a game
against Baltimore. Hamilton Barren dead exactly.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
But I think that they wouldn't put him out there
if he wasn't healthy. Also, you know, as much as
Joe wants to play and probably is very much leaning
on people that he's going to get out there, I
don't think the Bengals will put him out there if
you are a risk of major re injury or something.
I mean, we have two quarterbacks coming back from tow injuries,
Lamar Jackson on the injury report with the toe, which
(07:23):
one is more limited physically coming into this game.
Speaker 2 (07:26):
I think, really, I don't know, you know, that's up
for debate. I think that we'll have a sense of that,
Like I don't think. I don't think we honestly know
right now. I think we'll see that as the game
plays out.
Speaker 1 (07:38):
But I will say Lamar Jackson, because of the way
that he plays the game lower body injuries impact his
style of play more than it does Joe Burrow.
Speaker 2 (07:47):
Yeah, stylistically you, I mean, Lamar is so explosive with
his legs, is so dynamic, So if you limit that factor,
it changes a lot of things with the Ravens offense
and his ability. But I he's certainly less rusty than
Joe Burrow. Yeah, he certainly less rusty. And and and
Burrow's injury was more severe and that it required surgery
(08:08):
and had him on the shelf for two months. And yeah,
I think I I agree with you. He's a franchise quarterback,
so they're not putting him out there if they don't
feel like he's ready. But the ability to move around
in the pocket, Like, he's not a guy that's gonna
run the ball ten times a game. That's not his game.
But moving around and having the mobility in the pocket,
he's he's excellent at that. And if that is, if
(08:31):
that is limited at all, I think that could be
kind of a game.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
I don't think you need some more of a sitting duck.
Speaker 2 (08:38):
Yeah, And like I don't think you know that until
Like again, I agree with the practice thing. You've been
able to practice and test it out, but like it
is different when Travis Jones is coming downhill at you,
Like it's just it's just different.
Speaker 1 (08:48):
Those past rushers ain't comeing to hit him in practice exactly.
Speaker 2 (08:51):
Everyone's keeping their distance and as they should, that's obvious,
But it just changes when you have a defense, like
an attacking style defense. It's coming down handle hill at
you and bringing the blitz and putting pressure in your face.
And how do you respond?
Speaker 1 (09:03):
Again, does he trust basically, does he trust the foot
in the toe to be able to maneuver in that way?
Or is he a little apprehensious and he takes more sacks?
Speaker 2 (09:12):
Honestly both it's it's the mental side, the trust, but
also the physical size.
Speaker 1 (09:16):
Correct is it good?
Speaker 2 (09:17):
And that you trust it?
Speaker 1 (09:18):
Right?
Speaker 2 (09:18):
Both things are intertwined there and again I think we'll
see that pretty early in the game.
Speaker 1 (09:24):
Beyond that, the Bengals injury report has wide receiver t
Higgins and pass rusher Trey Hendrickson both ruled out for
this game. T Higgins suffered a concussion in their most
recent game and Trey Hendrickson's been been on the shelf. Now, uh,
those are two key players for them not being out there.
T Higgins. Really the Jamar Chase t Higgins combo is
(09:47):
what makes that offense really get cooking, and for one
of them not to be there, that's that's a big
loss for the Bengals. And then Trey Hendrickson, I mean,
raiding defensive player of the Year and leading sacks guy
in the NFL, so big time player, not on their
not on their game the roster.
Speaker 2 (10:05):
Their defensive struggle this year, but Trey Hendrickson is the
best player on it and with him not on the field,
that takes away their their best defensive player. And so
that's that is that's a massive loss. And like t
Higgins too, I like Jamar Chase has had some monster
games against the Ravens, So we'll get into that. Like
it's not like their passing game goes silent without t
(10:25):
Higgins on the field, but but the combination there is
what makes them so dangerous. Like that that was the
reason that when the Bengals went into the offseason and
Joe Burrow was banging the drone that we need to
keep both of these guys because he knows the value
of having both of the players and the way they
challenge defenses. And so if so Higgins not being able
to play, that's an advantage for the Ravens.
Speaker 1 (10:46):
Ravens injury report. As you mentioned, Lamar Jackson returned to practice.
Also a big one on today. Kyle Holllton back on
the field after he kind of tweaked his ankle late
in that Jets win. That was a good time. And
then Travis Jones also returned after being out on Monday.
He was back on the field Tuesday. That's another huge
player in the Ravens defensive trenches. So in a short week,
(11:09):
getting Hamilton, Jones and of course Lamar back on the field,
you know, you're a little bit nervous with that quick turnaround.
To see them back practicing on Tuesday was a really
good sign.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
I mean, Kyle Hamilton, we just talked about Trey Henderson.
He's the best defensive player on Bengals defense. Kyle Hamilton
is that for the Ravens season.
Speaker 1 (11:25):
And honestly, because he plays so many different roles and
wear so many hats, it might have even bigger impact.
Speaker 2 (11:31):
There's a case to be made for Kyle Hamilton being
the defensive Player of the Year. He's probably not gonna
win it given the season that Miles Garrett's having. But
Kyle Hamilton's one of the best defensive players in football,
and everything that he does just elevates this defense. And
the Ravens have really structured their defense in a way
to say, have Kyle play every position and make life
(11:52):
really hard on the opposing team. And he's so great
at that. And so when he goes down late in
that game on Sunday, you're thinking, oh, no, like, just
just be okay. And for him to be out on
the practice field again is a huge boose and I
think it that's exactly what you hope for, and so
I think everyone's kind was kind of crossing their fingers
when you saw him go into the locker room late
(12:14):
on Sunday, and it's it's encouraging to have him back
on the field and hopefully he's full strength and no
limitations Thursday night.
Speaker 1 (12:21):
The Ravens are gonna need their full defensive squad out
there because these have been some shootouts with the Bengals
in recent years. Last year in particular, thirty five to
thirty four Ravens win and a forty one to thirty
eight overtime win for the Ravens. I mean, say Flowers
joked about it in the locker room on Monday, saying, Man,
every time you finish one drive and you're right back
(12:43):
out there, You're like, whoa. You never you never get cold.
You're always warmed up in these games against the Bengals
because they have been high scoring affairs. The question, Garrett,
is is that what we should expect this time around.
Speaker 2 (12:56):
I don't think that's the recipe for the Ravens this
time around. Like, first of all, let's start with the
Ravens defense. I think that this Ravens defense has found
itself and is playing good football right now.
Speaker 1 (13:06):
And both of those shootouts last year were before the
Ravens kind of turned things around on the back end,
in part because of Kyle Hamilton. Yeah, and then moving
him to the deep secondary. That was the impetus exactly.
Those games.
Speaker 2 (13:18):
Those games forced the Ravens on a course that change
what they were doing on defense personnel wise, scheme wise.
Like those games, I'm tired of seeing Jamar Chase behind them. Yeah,
Like the coaches and the players like, we can't. This
is not the recipe here. Yeah, And so they made
some big changes coming out of those two games and
this year, like the Ravens defense over the past month
and a half has been playing great ball. And I
(13:39):
think that I think that the defense for this team
right now, given some of the injuries they dealt with
on offense, most notably to the quarterback Lamar Jackson, the
defense is the strength of this team.
Speaker 1 (13:49):
Right The Ravens defense has not given up, has given
up fewer than twenty points in six straight games. Yeah,
so they give up fewer than twenty to the Bengals.
Want to keep it going.
Speaker 2 (13:58):
That's that's a tough that's a hall order to keep
it under twenty against the Bengals. I definitely think under thirty.
I think that between twenty and thirty is probably the
sweet spot.
Speaker 1 (14:10):
Now, you know what, I did not hit on Mizay
Flowers prediction last week, but I'm going they keep it
rolling under twenty. Okay, Bengals offense, Yeah.
Speaker 2 (14:18):
That would be a If you keep them under twenty,
then then you're probably gonna win this game. But I
don't think the Ravens want to be in a situation
as their offense has been been a bit sluggish this season,
but especially since Lamar Jackson went down with the hamstring injury,
and it has been working his way back, like this
offense is not putting up the type of production we
saw a year ago, and so I don't think you
(14:38):
want to be in a forty one to thirty eight
kind of game. That's just not the way that the
Ravens are built right now. And I also don't and
I also think that like you want, you want the
defense to continue building on the way they've been playing,
and a track meet, a shootout is not the is
not the kind of framework that I think the Ravens
want to find themselves in. And I think that they're
(15:01):
also just better than what we saw last year when
they were giving up that many points on defense.
Speaker 1 (15:06):
Big question in this game is can the Ravens offense
get on track against the Bengals defense that has really
struggled this year. I mean, this has been historically one
of the worst defenses in league history. So far this year,
the Bengals rank at or at or near the bottom
of the league in almost every statistical category. Major statistic
category the thirty second and total defense given up four
(15:28):
hundred and fifteen point eight yards per game. They are
last in the league in points allowed per game thirty
two point seven. So the question is is it a
get right game for the Ravens offense.
Speaker 2 (15:38):
I think the potential is there for that. And it's interesting,
like what's the mode of attack? Is it all right?
Let's get the ground game going, and this is an
opportunity for Derek Henry to put up some big yards.
Speaker 1 (15:49):
Well, their rush defenses ranked thirty first in their past
defense is thirty second, right, So like, which way do.
Speaker 2 (15:53):
You want to try to attack them?
Speaker 1 (15:55):
I don't know.
Speaker 2 (15:55):
I don't know which way the Ravens will try to
go about it. I think, look the idea scenarios. You
get out to a lead and then in the second
half you can run Derrick Henry and the ground game
just salts it away in the fourth quarter. That's like
the perfect situation. That's easier said than done. But is
it a get right game? That's I think that this
(16:16):
is a game. I don't think that this is a
game where we're gonna be talking about either team flirting
with forty points. I don't think that that's gonna be
what we see on Thursday night, given that Lamar Jackson
missed practice again on Mondays that practice estimation.
Speaker 1 (16:29):
But you're saying, but you said the Bengals are scored
over twenty, so you're saying, and they're not flirting with forty,
so you're calling low thirties for the Bengals. This essentially
what you're saying.
Speaker 2 (16:38):
I'm saying that maybe this is twenty I guess.
Speaker 1 (16:41):
I'm sorry, I'm saying under twenty.
Speaker 2 (16:42):
Right, I'm saying if it could be twenty seven to
twenty one, okay, okay, in that range twenty eight, twenty yeah, okay,
somewhere in there. Okay, if we're getting into the specifics
on what this could look like. But I don't I
would be a little bit surprised if we end up
in a game that's like a forty either side, to
be honest, has forty plus, Like that would surprise me.
Speaker 1 (17:02):
I agree with that. I agree with that. I think
that the Ravens offense. I do think that this is
a game where they want to get on the trajectory
that they need to get on. Everybody in that Ravens
locker room made it clear after the winner of the Jets,
we got to get better on offense if we're going
to achieve our goals, if we're going to go any
if we're gonna make the playoffs, if we're gonna go
anywhere in the playoffs, if we're gonna reach the super Bowl,
(17:24):
like the Ravens certainly came into this year aspiring to do.
Speaker 2 (17:28):
This.
Speaker 1 (17:28):
Offense has to play better than it is right now. Yeah,
this is an opportunity. You're at home Thursday night, like
the juices are gonna be flowing. You're getting Rashad Bateman.
It looks like back on the field he returned to practice,
which is which is big for this offense. You know,
hopefully the problem is Lamar's health. Right it's a short week.
(17:48):
Lamar has been banged up. Until Lamar really starts feeling
and playing like his self himself, it's hard to imagine
the Ravens offense getting on track, but it Nobody can
say how much Lamar's injuries are limiting him. His teammates
can't say it. Lamar ain't saying it, coaches aren't saying it.
We really don't know. I think we can all all
(18:10):
of us who have watched Lamar play for eight years.
We see it. Yeah, you see the difference. He's not
out there duking people and making people miss with his
legs and run away from people and all that stuff,
but to what degree nobody knows.
Speaker 2 (18:24):
Well, one thing, I'll just point out, I do think
that this is worth mentioning. And the offense has not
been We're used to seeing the offense be or in
Lamar Jackson era and really the last two years with
Todd Mounkin as the offensive coordinator, We're used to seeing
this be a historically good offense. And so like that,
that's the comparison point that we're all looking at. And
(18:46):
while it hasn't been there, like I don't it's not been,
Let's not go overboard in the criticism in this point.
Like I know that a lot of players were frustrated
after the game against the Jets and saying we should
be better. They put up twenty three last week. They
put up twenty three in Cleveland. They had twenty seven
against Miami. They had twenty eight. Sorry, they put twenty
seven against Minnesota and twenty eight against Miami, and.
Speaker 1 (19:05):
All of those came with red zone and struggles. If
you get a little bit better in the red zone, exactly,
you're in the thirties exactly.
Speaker 2 (19:11):
That's my point, Like, you don't the Ravens are moving
the ball there, and especially with the way the defense
and special teams at times has been setting them up
in some good positions flipping the field or takeaways if
you can convert and have some touchdowns in the red
zone that you've been previously settling for field goals. Now
it's a thirty five point day, and so I don't
think that, like the Ravens are far off offensively from
(19:33):
having that type of game. And I also don't think
that we should go overboard in like, man, this offense
can't it can't get it figured out. Like they're putting
up over twenty points a game. They're not putting up
over thirty points a game. But I think that they're
not far off from doing that and this could be
the opportunity to do it.
Speaker 1 (19:51):
My point along in this is that when one of
your issues, and I'm using air quotes here is you know,
the passing offense and Lamar Jackson, when that's one of
your offensive issues is Lamar Jackson not looking like himself,
I'm okay with my one of my offensive problems being
a two time MVP, right Like, I have faith in
(20:11):
Lamar Jackson, yeah, to turn this around. You know, he's
had three straight games thrown under two hundred yards all
that stuff.
Speaker 2 (20:17):
But he's not gonna held out for long.
Speaker 1 (20:18):
But he's Lamar Jackson. Yeah, and so like I just
feel like Lamar Jackson, once he gets healthy, it could
be a flip switch and this offense could get real hot.
Like there's a ton of there's thirty one teams in
the NFL that would love to have Lamar Jackson that
be like that'd be their problem, you know what I mean?
Speaker 2 (20:37):
Yeah?
Speaker 1 (20:38):
Yeah, And now I'm not like the Ravens issues. You know,
I think they of course want to block better, they
want there there's a number of different things that they
need to solve, right, But like Lamar Jackson is the fixer.
He's the guy, and I think he can help this
Ravens offense get to where it needs to be get.
Speaker 2 (20:56):
Yeah, and I also do think that that this could
be You mentioned the Ravens the Bengals being thirty first
against the run too, Like you it's you want all
these things working together. Derek Henry eight hundred and seventy
one rushing yards on the season nine touchdowns, had a
pair of touchdowns last week against the Jets. Could could
this be a game where he tops I mean, he's
Forting with a thousand again, could he get over a thousand?
(21:17):
He need up one hundred and twenty nine yards to
get it done this game.
Speaker 1 (21:19):
That if he hits a thousand rushing yards in this game,
I think the Ravens probably win. Yeah. I think that
if he has that big of a day, it'd be
hard to see them losing. I agree with that, yep.
But I think a lot of it's gonna come down to,
like we were just talking about red zone cashing in,
you know, especially if the if the Bengals are able
to put up some points, if you are going to
match them, you're gonna You're not gonna do it with
(21:41):
field goal after field goal.
Speaker 2 (21:43):
Yeah, you don't want to see like any more twenty
four yard field goals from Tyler Loop like Tyler Lup.
Friend of the Lounge had him on last week because
Randy Brown enjoyed the conversation with him, like you don't
want to see twenty five yard field goals that you
want to be punched that in the end zone. And
someone who feels that way even songer than we do,
is Lamar Jacks. Like that has been his mo He
comes off the field and the field goal team is
(22:04):
trotten out there for a short field goal. Lamark ticked
because he feels like when you get into that part
of the field, you got to score touchdowns and that's
the focus for the Ravens. So let's take a quick break.
When we come back, we'll give you some predictions on
what will happen Thursday night against the Bengals. You're listening
to the Lage podcast. We're coming to you from the
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(22:28):
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(22:52):
So as we talk about predictions for this game, I
mentioned Derrick Henry flirting with one thousand yards. He's right there.
I think it could happen. Okay, few things, there's a
few miles soons that I think are going to happen
in the game.
Speaker 1 (23:03):
To one's a slam dunk Deandrew Hopkins. Hopkins getting a thousands, thousands,
he needs one, he needs one. That's one. That's that's
I think the lowest uh hanging fruit.
Speaker 2 (23:13):
Yeah, the lowest hanging fruit.
Speaker 1 (23:14):
Uh.
Speaker 2 (23:14):
Then Mark Andrews, I think he's going to get the
triple crowned. He's three catches in order to hit that mark.
So then he's got receptions yards touchdowns on the first draft.
It's boom, boom boom, cross them off here done, all right,
knock that off. Uh. Henry I think is going to
get a thousand yards. Ok so he has a big day.
And then the other one that I was flirting with here,
(23:36):
but this is.
Speaker 1 (23:37):
And you're a man of prediction. You're you're kind of
you're trying to get in on my gravy boat here
the boat.
Speaker 2 (23:44):
Uh. The other one that I think that we're really
close to is the long Keaton Mitchell touchdown run, like
he almost had it last game. I don't know about
fifty plus, but thirty plus thirty plus Yeah, a touchdo
r thirty yard thirty plus yard touchdown round for Keaton Mitchell. Okay,
and just skip the red zone, just go yeah.
Speaker 1 (24:02):
Just forget this red zone. Let's score exactly.
Speaker 2 (24:06):
Just skip that step. Keaton Mitchell has had some has
had some nice chunk plays and he had a big
one call back last week because of a holding, and
I think that that's provided a nice spark to the
offense when like things have been a little bit sluggish
and you're trying to find yourself. Keaton's ability to get
out in space and pick up big, like big chunks
of yards is I just equate him to a three
(24:27):
point shooter who comes off the bench with the hot hands,
Like I think that's what he is for this offense,
and so I think he's gonna hit on one of
those plays in this game.
Speaker 1 (24:34):
I'm going with the defensive predictions. I already predicted under
twenty points. I'm gonna also predict under one hundred receiving
yards for Jamar Chase. Jamar Chase last year in one
game he put up two sixty four and three touchdowns.
In the other game, one ninety three and two touches
those are bonkers numbers.
Speaker 2 (24:53):
Look, if they're able to hold Jamar Chase under one hundred,
it's hard for me to see them losing this game.
Speaker 1 (24:59):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (25:00):
I got just with no T. Higgins on the field,
Like their offense is gonna run through Jamar Chase, and
when the Ravens have struggled.
Speaker 1 (25:07):
Against he's heating up a little bit.
Speaker 2 (25:10):
Chase around the running back as heat up, heat it up.
But it's Jamar Chase. Yeah, Like, like he's the guy.
He's maybe the best receiver in football, and he's had
some monster games against the Ravens. But if they can
keep him under a hundred, I think the Ravens are
definitely gonna win this game.
Speaker 1 (25:22):
It's not having T Higgins out there. You can certainly
pay more attention, uh to Jamar Chase. Let's get you.
You're sure, but you're sliding coverage is his way. I
think the Ravens are gonna have the Jamar Chase game plan. Yeah,
And honestly, like this is part of the reason why
they drafted Malachi Starks. Take away that deep stuff. You
are the deep guy. Should I predict to Malachai interception?
(25:44):
I'm not, you know, I'm just I hope. So, but
I'm not feel now I'm keeping Jamar Chase under one hundred.
Speaker 2 (25:49):
Well. The thing also about Chase is like he can
hit the deep shots. But where the Ravens have struggled
against him historically is like they got to run catching
on to tackle him, and he's had some broken tackles
and taking place to the house. And you can't give
up those types of plays against him because he's one
of the best catching run guys in football, if not
the best. So if you have a chance to get him,
(26:10):
you got to bring him to the ground because if
he'll make you pay.
Speaker 1 (26:13):
If you don't, absolutely, it's gonna be a good game
at M and T Banks Stadium. Make sure you get
there early. It's the Purple Rising game where you're purple.
It is these these environments night games, Purple Rising, they
are something special.
Speaker 2 (26:28):
Yeah, there's a lot that's happening. I mentioned the gravy boats,
so that's a giveaway for this game where you have
the light up wristbands, So get to your seat by
eight o'clock because you're gonna want to see the light
show introductions all of that. So we have the risk
bands presented by Cash shapp which are gonna be an
awesome part of the pregame festivities.
Speaker 1 (26:44):
Halftime do you lead on halftime? Oh, I know who's
coming for half?
Speaker 2 (26:48):
Well, John is performing at halftime.
Speaker 1 (26:50):
From the window.
Speaker 2 (26:52):
I'm glad that Lill John's gonna be the one performing it,
not you. You're gonna be singing it in the press box.
But I don't even want to hear that. So he's
performing at halftime. And then national anthem is going to
be performed by Renee Elise Goldsberry. She was Angelica and
Hamilton Hamilton. So there's a lot that's going on for
this game. And then you mentioned Purple Rising. That's the
purple uniforms and the alternate helmet which the Ravens broke
(27:14):
out on the practice field this week. It looks really great,
So I'm excited to see all those things on Thursday night.
So it's gonna be a great Thanksgiving in Baltimore. We
hope that by the end of this game, the Ravens
are chowing down on the tra ducking you know.
Speaker 1 (27:27):
Before break, best Thanksgiving side and worse Thanksgiving side.
Speaker 2 (27:31):
Worse is easy Cranberry sauce. Does that count?
Speaker 1 (27:33):
Like? I see? I kind of like cranberries.
Speaker 2 (27:34):
Now, get it out off the table, like, get it
out of.
Speaker 1 (27:37):
Here made, not out of the can, not out of
the cans, trash. But I don't make your own like
you just buy cranberries, nutmeg, cinnamon. I'm nice.
Speaker 2 (27:46):
I don't really like the fruit. The fruit flavor doesn't
fit with the rest.
Speaker 1 (27:49):
Miss it's the tartness that balances.
Speaker 2 (27:51):
Now and then I would go, I think that if
we're going side, I think I think sweet potato castrole.
Speaker 1 (27:57):
Yeah, I'm going that's my goat. Also, sweet potato casts
with the nuts and marshmallows are nice little combos. Nice.
Speaker 2 (28:02):
Yeah, marshmallows can kind of it can become a little
too sweet.
Speaker 1 (28:05):
Yeah, I agree. I like the pecan and little brown sugar.
That's the goat right there. The worst for me, green
bean castrole. You don't want it off my table.
Speaker 2 (28:14):
You don't even want anything. You don't want the illusion
of anything healthy out So as always, you can email
us at the lounge at Ravens on NFL dot net.
Thank you so much for listening. We'll be back with
you after the game on Thursday.
Welcome into the Lounge presented by DraftKings. I'm Ryan Ink
here with Garrett Downing, and we are going to get
you ready for the Thanksgiving feast at em and T
Banks Stadium between the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals. Huge
game between two division rivals, and Garrett, I just cannot
wait for this one.
Speaker 2 (00:24):
This game has all the gravy served in a beautiful
gravy boat.
Speaker 1 (00:28):
That's right.
Speaker 2 (00:29):
I don't know if you're planning that, but that was
well done and you're part there. We are giving away
gravy boats. That's the giveaway.
Speaker 1 (00:35):
I got mine ahead of time.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
Yeah, Well, for fans who're comming of the game Thursday
night at Mt BAK Stadium, you can get your gravy boat.
And this is an awesome game. This is a headliner.
When the schedule comes out and you see the prime
time games, you see that the Ravens are playing on
Thanksgiving at home against the Bengals in this big division rival.
I think it's going to be an awesome atmosphere. And
John Harbaugh has been this will be the third time
(00:57):
the Ravens have played on Thanksgiving in the Harball era.
Sign was against his brother. Second time was against the Steelers,
the iconic Mike Tomlins Jacobe Jones game. We all remember
that one, and this will be the third time. And
Harwell has said he said it again this week, and
he's made this point a few times. He's like, I
would love for the Ravens to be the Thursday night
Thanksgiving game. You know, I like that idea and loves
(01:19):
playing on Thanksgiving. Considers hid an honor and it is
an indication that the NFL knows people want to watch
Lamar Jackson and the Ravens play, and this is going
to be an awesome night.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
To do it well. The schedule makers gave the Ravens
Christmas off this year and decided the move with the
Thanksgiving and.
Speaker 2 (01:33):
It's at home this year, so it's a home game
and thanks every time. Two for two.
Speaker 1 (01:36):
I'll take that every time. You know this, this is
a game between the Bengals team with their backs against
the wall, three and eight. You know, they probably to
get even back in the hunt, they got to ride
off a string of wins similar to what the Ravens
have done to call back from one to five. The
Ravens riding a five game winning streak but you know
all that aside, like you can talk, Bengals have not
(01:59):
had a good season. Joe Burr has been hurt for
almost all of it. That's a major reason why their
defensive struggle. But like, throw all that stuff out. Throw
This is a throw the records game out, and it
often is whenever you're playing a division rival. But man,
these two teams get after it.
Speaker 2 (02:16):
I agree with you. I also think that you can
kind of throw the records out when you play on
Thursday nights, like the short week. I just feel like
a lot of times those can sometimes be weird games.
And like you mentioned, Joe Burrow and that's one of
the biggest storylines this week is is him returning and
he's dealt with that toe injury. Coming back for Thanksgiving
(02:36):
Night is earlier than a lot of people expected. It
is clear that he wanted to come back for this
game against the Ravens.
Speaker 1 (02:42):
Ye had it circled and there was no doubt about it.
He had it circle. When that the schedule came out.
He was bellyaching about how the Ravens, you know, they
always have to play on some primetime games in our stadium. Yeah,
this was circled. Yeah, I mean the Ravens ended his
season a couple of years ago with the wrist that
was in Baltimore, and so like this has turned into
(03:02):
a big rivalry. I think it's not only it's been
a Ravens Bengals rivalry for a long time, but I
think it's a Joe Burrow Ravens rivalry as well.
Speaker 2 (03:09):
It definitely seems that way, Like he seems to want
to have big games against the Ravens, which he has
at times, he wants to play the Ravens. There seems
to be some whatteter animosity, whatever word you want to use.
And like even on his first day back at practice
when he came back earlier than expected from the toe
injury and the reports were out there that he's going
to be returning around Thanksgiving, and he was asked about
(03:31):
the significance of playing against the Ravens, and he made
the point that it would be very meaningful to come
back and play this game against the Ravens. So I'm
with you, Like, I think this is a game that
he had circled, that he was doing everything possible that
he could to come back and play, and like the Bengals,
their odds of making the playoffs are long at this point,
but they're not completely out of it yet. There's still
(03:52):
there's still time left. They'd have to run the table.
And this is this is like a back against the wall.
You're getting your quarterback back in the lineup. Who who?
And even if you like, even if you remove the
playoff conversation to your point, he just wants to beat
the Ravens.
Speaker 1 (04:07):
Yeah, exactly. That's why I think a lot of people,
or some people at least, are saying, why are they
why are they rushing Joe Burrow back when they're three
and eight and out of it? Pretty much because he
wants to play and he wants to beat the Ravens. Yeah, Like,
you know, I respect Joe Burrow. Like, dude's a competitor,
very good player, competitor. Respect him. Hope we beat you know,
(04:28):
just beat them bad on Thanksgiving night, but like respect
and like that's the kind of competitor that you want
to see as a fan. And somebody watching the game,
like does it records? He doesn't care what the record is.
He wants to come back in here and play against
his rival.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
Yeah, And and the Ravens are gonna have to contend
with that. I think it's it's certainly a question, and I.
Speaker 1 (04:48):
Kind of Joe Joe Flacco coming back to them asy
back Stadium would have been cool too.
Speaker 2 (04:52):
We always saw that this year happened. We saw that
we already did that. He already did that podcast two
months ago.
Speaker 1 (04:58):
That's true, it is.
Speaker 2 (04:59):
It is kind of crazy when you think about like
the possibility of seeing Flacco three times in one season. Yeah,
it doesn't seem like that's going to be the case now,
but but he'll be on the other sideline at least,
so you'll see him in that sense.
Speaker 1 (05:09):
But well, Dennis Pitt come back with his flack.
Speaker 2 (05:12):
That's a good question. But let's called Pitt. Let's get
pitted back on the podcast. I think that it is
interesting with Burrow as we talk about him what that
will look like because he hasn't played and is that
is he rusty? I would expect there to mab be
a little bit of rust. Is he fully healthy? Is
he hobbled at all? Is he moving around in the pocket?
Speaker 1 (05:33):
He basically he's gonna wear steel toe boots out there.
Speaker 2 (05:36):
Well that there's purports that he can have some sort
of contraption in the shoe to protect his toe. Like
brock Perty just came back from having a tow injury,
and you know, it was a little bit shaky for him.
I don't know if it's the exact same or whatever,
but like a toe injury is not good for anybody.
It's just it's and this was a major injury that
a lot of people thought. Like when this news came
out that that that he had this toe injury, I
think a lot of people said, like, his season's done. Yep,
(05:58):
that was the that was the thought. And so he's
back way sooner than expected. The next piece of that
question is what he looks like now that he's back
on the field, and is he limited in any capacity.
Speaker 1 (06:09):
I mean, Joe Burrow has never been a running quarterback. Now,
he can maneuver in the pocket, and his ability to
extend plays is certainly part of his game. He can
he can get out and kind of pick up first
downs with his legs, But I don't expect that the
toe probably limits him all that much. There could be
(06:30):
a Russ factor. He hasn't played in quite some time.
He's practiced now for two weeks. He practiced all last
week leading into the Bengals game, and didn't end up starting, obviously,
but but he's had three weeks I believe now under
his belt of practice, including two as the starter. Yeah,
(06:50):
this is a half a week, but he's still had that,
so he's had practice time to shake off the rust.
Speaker 2 (06:56):
But that's not the second game. That's not a game
against Baltimore. Hamilton Barren dead exactly.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
But I think that they wouldn't put him out there
if he wasn't healthy. Also, you know, as much as
Joe wants to play and probably is very much leaning
on people that he's going to get out there, I
don't think the Bengals will put him out there if
you are a risk of major re injury or something.
I mean, we have two quarterbacks coming back from tow injuries,
Lamar Jackson on the injury report with the toe, which
(07:23):
one is more limited physically coming into this game.
Speaker 2 (07:26):
I think, really, I don't know, you know, that's up
for debate. I think that we'll have a sense of that,
Like I don't think. I don't think we honestly know
right now. I think we'll see that as the game
plays out.
Speaker 1 (07:38):
But I will say Lamar Jackson, because of the way
that he plays the game lower body injuries impact his
style of play more than it does Joe Burrow.
Speaker 2 (07:47):
Yeah, stylistically you, I mean, Lamar is so explosive with
his legs, is so dynamic, So if you limit that factor,
it changes a lot of things with the Ravens offense
and his ability. But I he's certainly less rusty than
Joe Burrow. Yeah, he certainly less rusty. And and and
Burrow's injury was more severe and that it required surgery
(08:08):
and had him on the shelf for two months. And yeah,
I think I I agree with you. He's a franchise quarterback,
so they're not putting him out there if they don't
feel like he's ready. But the ability to move around
in the pocket, Like, he's not a guy that's gonna
run the ball ten times a game. That's not his game.
But moving around and having the mobility in the pocket,
he's he's excellent at that. And if that is, if
(08:31):
that is limited at all, I think that could be
kind of a game.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
I don't think you need some more of a sitting duck.
Speaker 2 (08:38):
Yeah, And like I don't think you know that until
Like again, I agree with the practice thing. You've been
able to practice and test it out, but like it
is different when Travis Jones is coming downhill at you,
Like it's just it's just different.
Speaker 1 (08:48):
Those past rushers ain't comeing to hit him in practice exactly.
Speaker 2 (08:51):
Everyone's keeping their distance and as they should, that's obvious,
But it just changes when you have a defense, like
an attacking style defense. It's coming down handle hill at
you and bringing the blitz and putting pressure in your face.
And how do you respond?
Speaker 1 (09:03):
Again, does he trust basically, does he trust the foot
in the toe to be able to maneuver in that way?
Or is he a little apprehensious and he takes more sacks?
Speaker 2 (09:12):
Honestly both it's it's the mental side, the trust, but
also the physical size.
Speaker 1 (09:16):
Correct is it good?
Speaker 2 (09:17):
And that you trust it?
Speaker 1 (09:18):
Right?
Speaker 2 (09:18):
Both things are intertwined there and again I think we'll
see that pretty early in the game.
Speaker 1 (09:24):
Beyond that, the Bengals injury report has wide receiver t
Higgins and pass rusher Trey Hendrickson both ruled out for
this game. T Higgins suffered a concussion in their most
recent game and Trey Hendrickson's been been on the shelf. Now, uh,
those are two key players for them not being out there.
T Higgins. Really the Jamar Chase t Higgins combo is
(09:47):
what makes that offense really get cooking, and for one
of them not to be there, that's that's a big
loss for the Bengals. And then Trey Hendrickson, I mean,
raiding defensive player of the Year and leading sacks guy
in the NFL, so big time player, not on their
not on their game the roster.
Speaker 2 (10:05):
Their defensive struggle this year, but Trey Hendrickson is the
best player on it and with him not on the field,
that takes away their their best defensive player. And so
that's that is that's a massive loss. And like t
Higgins too, I like Jamar Chase has had some monster
games against the Ravens, So we'll get into that. Like
it's not like their passing game goes silent without t
(10:25):
Higgins on the field, but but the combination there is
what makes them so dangerous. Like that that was the
reason that when the Bengals went into the offseason and
Joe Burrow was banging the drone that we need to
keep both of these guys because he knows the value
of having both of the players and the way they
challenge defenses. And so if so Higgins not being able
to play, that's an advantage for the Ravens.
Speaker 1 (10:46):
Ravens injury report. As you mentioned, Lamar Jackson returned to practice.
Also a big one on today. Kyle Holllton back on
the field after he kind of tweaked his ankle late
in that Jets win. That was a good time. And
then Travis Jones also returned after being out on Monday.
He was back on the field Tuesday. That's another huge
player in the Ravens defensive trenches. So in a short week,
(11:09):
getting Hamilton, Jones and of course Lamar back on the field,
you know, you're a little bit nervous with that quick turnaround.
To see them back practicing on Tuesday was a really
good sign.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
I mean, Kyle Hamilton, we just talked about Trey Henderson.
He's the best defensive player on Bengals defense. Kyle Hamilton
is that for the Ravens season.
Speaker 1 (11:25):
And honestly, because he plays so many different roles and
wear so many hats, it might have even bigger impact.
Speaker 2 (11:31):
There's a case to be made for Kyle Hamilton being
the defensive Player of the Year. He's probably not gonna
win it given the season that Miles Garrett's having. But
Kyle Hamilton's one of the best defensive players in football,
and everything that he does just elevates this defense. And
the Ravens have really structured their defense in a way
to say, have Kyle play every position and make life
(11:52):
really hard on the opposing team. And he's so great
at that. And so when he goes down late in
that game on Sunday, you're thinking, oh, no, like, just
just be okay. And for him to be out on
the practice field again is a huge boose and I
think it that's exactly what you hope for, and so
I think everyone's kind was kind of crossing their fingers
when you saw him go into the locker room late
(12:14):
on Sunday, and it's it's encouraging to have him back
on the field and hopefully he's full strength and no
limitations Thursday night.
Speaker 1 (12:21):
The Ravens are gonna need their full defensive squad out
there because these have been some shootouts with the Bengals
in recent years. Last year in particular, thirty five to
thirty four Ravens win and a forty one to thirty
eight overtime win for the Ravens. I mean, say Flowers
joked about it in the locker room on Monday, saying, Man,
every time you finish one drive and you're right back
(12:43):
out there, You're like, whoa. You never you never get cold.
You're always warmed up in these games against the Bengals
because they have been high scoring affairs. The question, Garrett,
is is that what we should expect this time around.
Speaker 2 (12:56):
I don't think that's the recipe for the Ravens this
time around. Like, first of all, let's start with the
Ravens defense. I think that this Ravens defense has found
itself and is playing good football right now.
Speaker 1 (13:06):
And both of those shootouts last year were before the
Ravens kind of turned things around on the back end,
in part because of Kyle Hamilton. Yeah, and then moving
him to the deep secondary. That was the impetus exactly.
Those games.
Speaker 2 (13:18):
Those games forced the Ravens on a course that change
what they were doing on defense personnel wise, scheme wise.
Like those games, I'm tired of seeing Jamar Chase behind them. Yeah,
Like the coaches and the players like, we can't. This
is not the recipe here. Yeah, And so they made
some big changes coming out of those two games and
this year, like the Ravens defense over the past month
and a half has been playing great ball. And I
(13:39):
think that I think that the defense for this team
right now, given some of the injuries they dealt with
on offense, most notably to the quarterback Lamar Jackson, the
defense is the strength of this team.
Speaker 1 (13:49):
Right The Ravens defense has not given up, has given
up fewer than twenty points in six straight games. Yeah,
so they give up fewer than twenty to the Bengals.
Want to keep it going.
Speaker 2 (13:58):
That's that's a tough that's a hall order to keep
it under twenty against the Bengals. I definitely think under thirty.
I think that between twenty and thirty is probably the
sweet spot.
Speaker 1 (14:10):
Now, you know what, I did not hit on Mizay
Flowers prediction last week, but I'm going they keep it
rolling under twenty. Okay, Bengals offense, Yeah.
Speaker 2 (14:18):
That would be a If you keep them under twenty,
then then you're probably gonna win this game. But I
don't think the Ravens want to be in a situation
as their offense has been been a bit sluggish this season,
but especially since Lamar Jackson went down with the hamstring injury,
and it has been working his way back, like this
offense is not putting up the type of production we
saw a year ago, and so I don't think you
(14:38):
want to be in a forty one to thirty eight
kind of game. That's just not the way that the
Ravens are built right now. And I also don't and
I also think that like you want, you want the
defense to continue building on the way they've been playing,
and a track meet, a shootout is not the is
not the kind of framework that I think the Ravens
want to find themselves in. And I think that they're
(15:01):
also just better than what we saw last year when
they were giving up that many points on defense.
Speaker 1 (15:06):
Big question in this game is can the Ravens offense
get on track against the Bengals defense that has really
struggled this year. I mean, this has been historically one
of the worst defenses in league history. So far this year,
the Bengals rank at or at or near the bottom
of the league in almost every statistical category. Major statistic
category the thirty second and total defense given up four
(15:28):
hundred and fifteen point eight yards per game. They are
last in the league in points allowed per game thirty
two point seven. So the question is is it a
get right game for the Ravens offense.
Speaker 2 (15:38):
I think the potential is there for that. And it's interesting,
like what's the mode of attack? Is it all right?
Let's get the ground game going, and this is an
opportunity for Derek Henry to put up some big yards.
Speaker 1 (15:49):
Well, their rush defenses ranked thirty first in their past
defense is thirty second, right, So like, which way do.
Speaker 2 (15:53):
You want to try to attack them?
Speaker 1 (15:55):
I don't know.
Speaker 2 (15:55):
I don't know which way the Ravens will try to
go about it. I think, look the idea scenarios. You
get out to a lead and then in the second
half you can run Derrick Henry and the ground game
just salts it away in the fourth quarter. That's like
the perfect situation. That's easier said than done. But is
it a get right game? That's I think that this
(16:16):
is a game. I don't think that this is a
game where we're gonna be talking about either team flirting
with forty points. I don't think that that's gonna be
what we see on Thursday night, given that Lamar Jackson
missed practice again on Mondays that practice estimation.
Speaker 1 (16:29):
But you're saying, but you said the Bengals are scored
over twenty, so you're saying, and they're not flirting with forty,
so you're calling low thirties for the Bengals. This essentially
what you're saying.
Speaker 2 (16:38):
I'm saying that maybe this is twenty I guess.
Speaker 1 (16:41):
I'm sorry, I'm saying under twenty.
Speaker 2 (16:42):
Right, I'm saying if it could be twenty seven to
twenty one, okay, okay, in that range twenty eight, twenty yeah, okay,
somewhere in there. Okay, if we're getting into the specifics
on what this could look like. But I don't I
would be a little bit surprised if we end up
in a game that's like a forty either side, to
be honest, has forty plus, Like that would surprise me.
Speaker 1 (17:02):
I agree with that. I agree with that. I think
that the Ravens offense. I do think that this is
a game where they want to get on the trajectory
that they need to get on. Everybody in that Ravens
locker room made it clear after the winner of the Jets,
we got to get better on offense if we're going
to achieve our goals, if we're going to go any
if we're gonna make the playoffs, if we're gonna go
anywhere in the playoffs, if we're gonna reach the super Bowl,
(17:24):
like the Ravens certainly came into this year aspiring to do.
Speaker 2 (17:28):
This.
Speaker 1 (17:28):
Offense has to play better than it is right now. Yeah,
this is an opportunity. You're at home Thursday night, like
the juices are gonna be flowing. You're getting Rashad Bateman.
It looks like back on the field he returned to practice,
which is which is big for this offense. You know,
hopefully the problem is Lamar's health. Right it's a short week.
(17:48):
Lamar has been banged up. Until Lamar really starts feeling
and playing like his self himself, it's hard to imagine
the Ravens offense getting on track, but it Nobody can
say how much Lamar's injuries are limiting him. His teammates
can't say it. Lamar ain't saying it, coaches aren't saying it.
We really don't know. I think we can all all
(18:10):
of us who have watched Lamar play for eight years.
We see it. Yeah, you see the difference. He's not
out there duking people and making people miss with his
legs and run away from people and all that stuff,
but to what degree nobody knows.
Speaker 2 (18:24):
Well, one thing, I'll just point out, I do think
that this is worth mentioning. And the offense has not
been We're used to seeing the offense be or in
Lamar Jackson era and really the last two years with
Todd Mounkin as the offensive coordinator, We're used to seeing
this be a historically good offense. And so like that,
that's the comparison point that we're all looking at. And
(18:46):
while it hasn't been there, like I don't it's not been,
Let's not go overboard in the criticism in this point.
Like I know that a lot of players were frustrated
after the game against the Jets and saying we should
be better. They put up twenty three last week. They
put up twenty three in Cleveland. They had twenty seven
against Miami. They had twenty eight. Sorry, they put twenty
seven against Minnesota and twenty eight against Miami, and.
Speaker 1 (19:05):
All of those came with red zone and struggles. If
you get a little bit better in the red zone, exactly,
you're in the thirties exactly.
Speaker 2 (19:11):
That's my point, Like, you don't the Ravens are moving
the ball there, and especially with the way the defense
and special teams at times has been setting them up
in some good positions flipping the field or takeaways if
you can convert and have some touchdowns in the red
zone that you've been previously settling for field goals. Now
it's a thirty five point day, and so I don't
think that, like the Ravens are far off offensively from
(19:33):
having that type of game. And I also don't think
that we should go overboard in like, man, this offense
can't it can't get it figured out. Like they're putting
up over twenty points a game. They're not putting up
over thirty points a game. But I think that they're
not far off from doing that and this could be
the opportunity to do it.
Speaker 1 (19:51):
My point along in this is that when one of
your issues, and I'm using air quotes here is you know,
the passing offense and Lamar Jackson, when that's one of
your offensive issues is Lamar Jackson not looking like himself,
I'm okay with my one of my offensive problems being
a two time MVP, right Like, I have faith in
(20:11):
Lamar Jackson, yeah, to turn this around. You know, he's
had three straight games thrown under two hundred yards all
that stuff.
Speaker 2 (20:17):
But he's not gonna held out for long.
Speaker 1 (20:18):
But he's Lamar Jackson. Yeah, and so like I just
feel like Lamar Jackson, once he gets healthy, it could
be a flip switch and this offense could get real hot.
Like there's a ton of there's thirty one teams in
the NFL that would love to have Lamar Jackson that
be like that'd be their problem, you know what I mean?
Speaker 2 (20:37):
Yeah?
Speaker 1 (20:38):
Yeah, And now I'm not like the Ravens issues. You know,
I think they of course want to block better, they
want there there's a number of different things that they
need to solve, right, But like Lamar Jackson is the fixer.
He's the guy, and I think he can help this
Ravens offense get to where it needs to be get.
Speaker 2 (20:56):
Yeah, and I also do think that that this could
be You mentioned the Ravens the Bengals being thirty first
against the run too, Like you it's you want all
these things working together. Derek Henry eight hundred and seventy
one rushing yards on the season nine touchdowns, had a
pair of touchdowns last week against the Jets. Could could
this be a game where he tops I mean, he's
Forting with a thousand again, could he get over a thousand?
(21:17):
He need up one hundred and twenty nine yards to
get it done this game.
Speaker 1 (21:19):
That if he hits a thousand rushing yards in this game,
I think the Ravens probably win. Yeah. I think that
if he has that big of a day, it'd be
hard to see them losing. I agree with that, yep.
But I think a lot of it's gonna come down to,
like we were just talking about red zone cashing in,
you know, especially if the if the Bengals are able
to put up some points, if you are going to
match them, you're gonna You're not gonna do it with
(21:41):
field goal after field goal.
Speaker 2 (21:43):
Yeah, you don't want to see like any more twenty
four yard field goals from Tyler Loop like Tyler Lup.
Friend of the Lounge had him on last week because
Randy Brown enjoyed the conversation with him, like you don't
want to see twenty five yard field goals that you
want to be punched that in the end zone. And
someone who feels that way even songer than we do,
is Lamar Jacks. Like that has been his mo He
comes off the field and the field goal team is
(22:04):
trotten out there for a short field goal. Lamark ticked
because he feels like when you get into that part
of the field, you got to score touchdowns and that's
the focus for the Ravens. So let's take a quick break.
When we come back, we'll give you some predictions on
what will happen Thursday night against the Bengals. You're listening
to the Lage podcast. We're coming to you from the
Sea Geek Studio. We want to mention our partners with
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(22:28):
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(22:52):
So as we talk about predictions for this game, I
mentioned Derrick Henry flirting with one thousand yards. He's right there.
I think it could happen. Okay, few things, there's a
few miles soons that I think are going to happen
in the game.
Speaker 1 (23:03):
To one's a slam dunk Deandrew Hopkins. Hopkins getting a thousands, thousands,
he needs one, he needs one. That's one. That's that's
I think the lowest uh hanging fruit.
Speaker 2 (23:13):
Yeah, the lowest hanging fruit.
Speaker 1 (23:14):
Uh.
Speaker 2 (23:14):
Then Mark Andrews, I think he's going to get the
triple crowned. He's three catches in order to hit that mark.
So then he's got receptions yards touchdowns on the first draft.
It's boom, boom boom, cross them off here done, all right,
knock that off. Uh. Henry I think is going to
get a thousand yards. Ok so he has a big day.
And then the other one that I was flirting with here,
(23:36):
but this is.
Speaker 1 (23:37):
And you're a man of prediction. You're you're kind of
you're trying to get in on my gravy boat here
the boat.
Speaker 2 (23:44):
Uh. The other one that I think that we're really
close to is the long Keaton Mitchell touchdown run, like
he almost had it last game. I don't know about
fifty plus, but thirty plus thirty plus Yeah, a touchdo
r thirty yard thirty plus yard touchdown round for Keaton Mitchell. Okay,
and just skip the red zone, just go yeah.
Speaker 1 (24:02):
Just forget this red zone. Let's score exactly.
Speaker 2 (24:06):
Just skip that step. Keaton Mitchell has had some has
had some nice chunk plays and he had a big
one call back last week because of a holding, and
I think that that's provided a nice spark to the
offense when like things have been a little bit sluggish
and you're trying to find yourself. Keaton's ability to get
out in space and pick up big, like big chunks
of yards is I just equate him to a three
(24:27):
point shooter who comes off the bench with the hot hands,
Like I think that's what he is for this offense,
and so I think he's gonna hit on one of
those plays in this game.
Speaker 1 (24:34):
I'm going with the defensive predictions. I already predicted under
twenty points. I'm gonna also predict under one hundred receiving
yards for Jamar Chase. Jamar Chase last year in one
game he put up two sixty four and three touchdowns.
In the other game, one ninety three and two touches
those are bonkers numbers.
Speaker 2 (24:53):
Look, if they're able to hold Jamar Chase under one hundred,
it's hard for me to see them losing this game.
Speaker 1 (24:59):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (25:00):
I got just with no T. Higgins on the field,
Like their offense is gonna run through Jamar Chase, and
when the Ravens have struggled.
Speaker 1 (25:07):
Against he's heating up a little bit.
Speaker 2 (25:10):
Chase around the running back as heat up, heat it up.
But it's Jamar Chase. Yeah, Like, like he's the guy.
He's maybe the best receiver in football, and he's had
some monster games against the Ravens. But if they can
keep him under a hundred, I think the Ravens are
definitely gonna win this game.
Speaker 1 (25:22):
It's not having T Higgins out there. You can certainly
pay more attention, uh to Jamar Chase. Let's get you.
You're sure, but you're sliding coverage is his way. I
think the Ravens are gonna have the Jamar Chase game plan. Yeah,
And honestly, like this is part of the reason why
they drafted Malachi Starks. Take away that deep stuff. You
are the deep guy. Should I predict to Malachai interception?
(25:44):
I'm not, you know, I'm just I hope. So, but
I'm not feel now I'm keeping Jamar Chase under one hundred.
Speaker 2 (25:49):
Well. The thing also about Chase is like he can
hit the deep shots. But where the Ravens have struggled
against him historically is like they got to run catching
on to tackle him, and he's had some broken tackles
and taking place to the house. And you can't give
up those types of plays against him because he's one
of the best catching run guys in football, if not
the best. So if you have a chance to get him,
(26:10):
you got to bring him to the ground because if
he'll make you pay.
Speaker 1 (26:13):
If you don't, absolutely, it's gonna be a good game
at M and T Banks Stadium. Make sure you get
there early. It's the Purple Rising game where you're purple.
It is these these environments night games, Purple Rising, they
are something special.
Speaker 2 (26:28):
Yeah, there's a lot that's happening. I mentioned the gravy boats,
so that's a giveaway for this game where you have
the light up wristbands, So get to your seat by
eight o'clock because you're gonna want to see the light
show introductions all of that. So we have the risk
bands presented by Cash shapp which are gonna be an
awesome part of the pregame festivities.
Speaker 1 (26:44):
Halftime do you lead on halftime? Oh, I know who's
coming for half?
Speaker 2 (26:48):
Well, John is performing at halftime.
Speaker 1 (26:50):
From the window.
Speaker 2 (26:52):
I'm glad that Lill John's gonna be the one performing it,
not you. You're gonna be singing it in the press box.
But I don't even want to hear that. So he's
performing at halftime. And then national anthem is going to
be performed by Renee Elise Goldsberry. She was Angelica and
Hamilton Hamilton. So there's a lot that's going on for
this game. And then you mentioned Purple Rising. That's the
purple uniforms and the alternate helmet which the Ravens broke
(27:14):
out on the practice field this week. It looks really great,
So I'm excited to see all those things on Thursday night.
So it's gonna be a great Thanksgiving in Baltimore. We
hope that by the end of this game, the Ravens
are chowing down on the tra ducking you know.
Speaker 1 (27:27):
Before break, best Thanksgiving side and worse Thanksgiving side.
Speaker 2 (27:31):
Worse is easy Cranberry sauce. Does that count?
Speaker 1 (27:33):
Like? I see? I kind of like cranberries.
Speaker 2 (27:34):
Now, get it out off the table, like, get it
out of.
Speaker 1 (27:37):
Here made, not out of the can, not out of
the cans, trash. But I don't make your own like
you just buy cranberries, nutmeg, cinnamon. I'm nice.
Speaker 2 (27:46):
I don't really like the fruit. The fruit flavor doesn't
fit with the rest.
Speaker 1 (27:49):
Miss it's the tartness that balances.
Speaker 2 (27:51):
Now and then I would go, I think that if
we're going side, I think I think sweet potato castrole.
Speaker 1 (27:57):
Yeah, I'm going that's my goat. Also, sweet potato casts
with the nuts and marshmallows are nice little combos. Nice.
Speaker 2 (28:02):
Yeah, marshmallows can kind of it can become a little
too sweet.
Speaker 1 (28:05):
Yeah, I agree. I like the pecan and little brown sugar.
That's the goat right there. The worst for me, green
bean castrole. You don't want it off my table.
Speaker 2 (28:14):
You don't even want anything. You don't want the illusion
of anything healthy out So as always, you can email
us at the lounge at Ravens on NFL dot net.
Thank you so much for listening. We'll be back with
you after the game on Thursday.
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