Joe Burrow Returns From Injury to Lead Bengals in Critical Thanksgiving Clash

Joe Burrow is back under center for the Cincinnati Bengals. The star quarterback returns from a serious toe injury tonight. He will start against the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving at M&T Bank Stadium. The prime-time kickoff is set for 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC.

Burrow missed the last nine games for the struggling Bengals. His return provides a major spark for the offense. The team has fallen to a 3-8 record without their leader on the field.

Burrow’s Remarkable Recovery from Turf Toe Injury

Burrow suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury in Week 2. It happened during a sack against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The severe hyperextension of his left big toe required immediate surgery.

Doctors performed the procedure on September 19. Initial timelines suggested a three-month minimum recovery. According to ESPN, Burrow’s aggressive rehab beat that schedule by two full weeks.

His dedication in the training room was exceptional. This allowed him to clear medical protocols ahead of the crucial holiday matchup. The Bengals officially activated him from injured reserve on Tuesday.

High-Stakes AFC North Showdown Awaits

The Baltimore Ravens present a formidable challenge. They ride a five-game winning streak into tonight’s game. Baltimore holds a 6-5 record and first place in the AFC North division.

Cincinnati’s season hangs in the balance. Every game is a must-win to keep faint playoff hopes alive. The return of receiver Ja’Marr Chase from suspension is another key boost.

The Burrow-to-Chase connection is historically potent against the Ravens. Chase has amassed over 450 receiving yards in his last two games versus Baltimore. Their reunion could test the Ravens’ secondary immediately.

Joe Burrow’s return is the defining storyline of this Thanksgiving NFL slate, offering the Bengals one last chance to salvage their season against a division rival.

Thought you’d like to know-

What exactly was Joe Burrow’s injury?

Burrow suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury. This is a severe hyperextension of the big toe’s main joint. It involved a complete tear of the plantar plate, requiring surgical repair.

How long was Joe Burrow expected to be out?

Medical experts initially projected a minimum three-month recovery. That timeline would have kept him out until mid-December. His return tonight puts him roughly two weeks ahead of that schedule.

What is the Bengals’ record without Burrow this season?

The Bengals went 1-8 in the nine games Burrow missed. They started the season 2-0 with him. Their overall record now stands at 3-8 for the year.

Why is this game so important for the Ravens?

A victory extends the Ravens’ winning streak to six games. It would also solidify their hold on first place in the AFC North. Beating a division rival always carries extra weight for playoff tiebreakers.

Can the Bengals still make the playoffs?

Their chances are extremely slim at 3-8. They would need to win nearly all their remaining games. They also require significant help from other teams losing down the stretch.