The Cincinnati Bengals entered Week 13 on Thanksgiving night with more questions than answers, a disappointing 4–8 record, and a fan base unsure whether the season had already slipped away. But when Joe Burrow walked back onto the field for the first time since undergoing turf-toe surgery in September, everything changed in an instant. The swagger returned. The offense clicked. The defense fed off the momentum. And in a shocking 32–14 dismantling of the division-leading Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati suddenly looked like the team the NFL expected them to be when the season began.

A Season Derailed — And Suddenly Revived

Thanksgiving Turnaround: Bengals Dominate Ravens

Burrow’s Realistic, Yet Confident Message

Bengals Must Be Nearly Perfect From Here

At 4–8, Cincinnati realistically needs to win out — or at worst go 4–1 — to stay in the playoff hunt. Their remaining schedule is difficult, featuring multiple AFC contenders. But the team believes that with Burrow back, their chances increase dramatically.

Areas That Must Stay Consistent:

Why This Comeback Feels Different

A Team Rallying Behind Its Leader

A Long Road Ahead — But a Spark of Hope