Thursday Night Football Preview: Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals The Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals clash in what promises to be an electrifying Thursday Night Football showdown on November 7, 2024. With both teams fighting for dominance in the competitive AFC North, this primetime matchup is set to deliver intense action, standout plays, and high-stakes drama. Here’s everything you need to know, including key players, stats to watch, and how to catch all the action tonight.
Game Details Date: Thursday, November 7, 2024 Kickoff Time: 8:15 PM ET Location: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD Where to Watch: Prime Video (Amazon) and local TV networks for Baltimore and Cincinnati viewers
Team Overviews Both the Ravens and the Bengals come into this matchup with something to prove. Baltimore has been solid, showcasing a resilient defense and a dynamic offense. Cincinnati, on the other hand, is looking to make a late-season push, especially as they fight to stay relevant in the playoff race. Baltimore Ravens Record: 7-2 AFC North Standing: 1st Head Coach: John Harbaugh The Ravens have shown versatility, thanks to a strong ground game and a stout defense that’s been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Baltimore’s offense has become more balanced under Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken, making them more unpredictable and difficult to defend. Cincinnati Bengals Record: 5-4 AFC North Standing: 3rd Head Coach: Zac Taylor The Bengals have seen a roller-coaster season, largely due to early struggles and injuries. However, with Joe Burrow back to full strength and key players stepping up, Cincinnati’s offense is once again a potent force. The Bengals’ defense, however, will need to tighten up to contain Baltimore's explosive playmakers.
Key Players to Watch This matchup features some of the league’s most exciting talents. Here’s a look at the players who could be difference-makers tonight: Baltimore Ravens Lamar Jackson (QB) 2024 Season Stats: 2,100 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, 4 interceptions; 400 rushing yards, 5 rushing TDs. Why Watch: Jackson’s dual-threat ability always makes him a game-changer. His connection with new targets like Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flowers has added depth to the Ravens' aerial attack, while his rushing ability continues to keep defenses on edge. Roquan Smith (LB) 2024 Season Stats: 80 tackles, 3 sacks, 1 interception. Why Watch: A centerpiece of the Ravens' defense, Smith is one of the league’s most disruptive linebackers. Look for him to contain Cincinnati’s offense, particularly in limiting big plays from Burrow and Mixon. Zay Flowers (WR) 2024 Season Stats: 600 receiving yards, 5 touchdowns. Why Watch: Flowers, a rookie with explosive speed, has quickly become one of Jackson’s favorite targets. His ability to create separation and turn short catches into big gains makes him a player to keep an eye on. Cincinnati Bengals Joe Burrow (QB) 2024 Season Stats: 2,450 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, 8 interceptions. Why Watch: Burrow’s resilience and leadership are key for Cincinnati’s offense. He’ll be looking to connect with his favorite targets, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, in a bid to exploit any gaps in the Ravens' secondary. Ja'Marr Chase (WR) 2024 Season Stats: 900 receiving yards, 8 touchdowns. Why Watch: Chase’s combination of speed, hands, and agility make him a threat on every play. Expect him to play a pivotal role in the Bengals’ passing game, especially against a Baltimore secondary that has been stellar but will need to be at their best. Logan Wilson (LB) 2024 Season Stats: 70 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 interceptions. Why Watch: Wilson is a tackling machine with a knack for big plays. His ability to read Jackson’s movements and contain the Ravens’ rushing attack will be critical for Cincinnati's defensive strategy.
Key Matchups to Watch Lamar Jackson vs. Bengals’ Secondary Jackson’s ability to improvise makes him difficult to defend. Look for Cincinnati’s sec