Joe Burrow has made a significant comeback, returning as a full participant in practice for the Cincinnati Bengals after being sidelined since Week 2 due to a turf toe injury. His return comes earlier than expected, with speculation suggesting he might not be back until the Bengals” Thanksgiving game against the Baltimore Ravens. With Burrow potentially set to play against the New England Patriots this Sunday, the question arises: Is it too late for the Bengals to salvage their season?
Currently, Cincinnati holds a disappointing record of 3-7, placing them third in the AFC North. They trail the Ravens by two games and the Pittsburgh Steelers by three. Last week”s loss to the Steelers further complicated their playoff aspirations, marking the team”s seventh defeat in eight games. The upcoming schedule presents a daunting challenge, with matchups against the 9-2 Patriots, the 7-3 Buffalo Bills, and two more games against the 5-5 Ravens.
For the Bengals to have any chance of climbing back into playoff contention, they will require a remarkable turnaround against some of the league”s elite teams. Fans are left to ponder the missed opportunities that have led to this predicament. Notable close losses against the New York Jets and the Chicago Bears have been particularly painful. Additionally, the decision-making process regarding the backup quarterback position has come under scrutiny. Had the Bengals opted to acquire Joe Flacco during Burrow”s absence, they might have avoided a three-game losing streak with Jake Browning starting.
As the Bengals enter Week 12, they find themselves three games behind the final wild-card spot in the AFC. Much now depends on Burrow”s ability to ignite a swift resurgence for the team. The pressure is on as Cincinnati fights to maintain its postseason dreams.
