The Cincinnati Bengals have received a boost as quarterback Joe Burrow has returned to practice, leading to a slight shift in the betting odds for their upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 11.
Burrow, who has been sidelined after undergoing surgery for a turf toe injury, now has a 21-day practice window opened, allowing him to potentially be activated for a game sooner than anticipated. While it is unlikely he will take the field against Pittsburgh, oddsmakers are adjusting their lines to account for the possibility. Initially, the Bengals were 6.5-point underdogs, but that line has shifted to Bengals +5.5 at DraftKings Sportsbook.
Since acquiring veteran quarterback Joe Flacco earlier this season, the Bengals have seen improved performance under his leadership, and he is expected to start until Burrow is ready to return. Burrow has been out of action since suffering his injury in Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Bengals won both games he started but have struggled significantly, posting a 1-6 record during his absence.
In the two games Burrow played this season, he completed 58.3 percent of his passes for 189 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the challenges, his status as one of the elite quarterbacks in the league is undisputed, and the Bengals” playoff hopes would benefit tremendously if he can return this season.
Currently, the Bengals are focused on remaining competitive without Burrow, but the opening of his practice window suggests the team is optimistic about his potential return within the next three weeks. If he is not activated within this timeframe, he will miss the remainder of the 2025 season.
As of Tuesday morning, Cincinnati holds +1000 odds to make the playoffs in the AFC and is currently two games behind the No. 7 seed in the standings. It is important to note that odds are subject to change as the season progresses. If you or someone you know is facing gambling issues, please seek help by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.
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