Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens outlasted the Cincinnati Bengals 35-34 Thursday night in a thrilling AFC North showdown that came down to a denied two-point conversion attempt in the final minute.
The MVP frontrunner led the Ravens’ comeback from a 21-7 third-quarter deficit, completing 25 of 33 passes with four touchdowns, including three in the fourth quarter. Jackson added 33 rushing yards on seven carries.
In 2019, Jackson revolutionized the quarterback position, becoming the first player to pass for 3,000 yards and rush for 1,000 in a single season. That year, he threw for 36 touchdowns against just six interceptions while rushing for 1,206 yards.
This season, Jackson has refined his approach. Through Thursday’s game, he’s on pace to surpass his 2019 passing efficiency while maintaining his dual-threat capability. His completion percentage has jumped from 66.1 percent in 2019 to over 70 percent in 2024, showcasing improved pocket presence under new offensive coordinator Todd Monken.
Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow delivered a historic performance despite the loss. He connected on 34 of 56 passes for 428 yards and four touchdowns, with wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase hauling in 11 catches for 264 yards and three scores. Their final touchdown connection came with under a minute remaining before the failed two-point attempt.
The loss proved especially bitter for Burrow, who achieved a rare statistical feat in defeat. He became only the second quarterback to record 30+ completions, 300+ yards, 4+ touchdowns and multiple 40-yard scoring passes in a losing effort. Remarkably, the only other such performance also belongs to Burrow – against these same Ravens in Week 5.
The Ravens’ victory strengthens their AFC North lead while dropping Cincinnati to 4-6, severely damaging their playoff hopes. The game featured controversial non-calls on the decisive two-point play that left Bengals fans frustrated.
This latest chapter in the Ravens-Bengals rivalry demonstrated both teams’ offensive firepower while highlighting the fine line between victory and defeat in the NFL’s most competitive division.
