November 27, 2025 | 8:20 p.m. ET | M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD Broadcast: Amazon Prime | Weather: Just above freezing, clear skies Series Record: Not specified in recent analyses; rivalry known for high-scoring affairs with six straight overs
The AFC North’s marquee Thanksgiving showdown pits the surging Baltimore Ravens against the scrambling Cincinnati Bengals under the lights at M&T Bank Stadium. With Baltimore tied atop the division and riding momentum, and Cincinnati desperate to climb from the basement, this divisional clash carries playoff implications amid returning stars and injury questions. The Ravens’ recent defensive clampdown meets a Bengals offense reloaded with its dynamic duo, promising a fireworks display in chilly Baltimore conditions.
Team Overviews & 2025 Season Snapshot
Baltimore Ravens (Record: Tied atop AFC North with Steelers, hold tiebreaker; 5-game win streak after 1-5 start)
Baltimore has flipped the script dramatically, going 5-0 in their last five outings after stumbling to 1-5 early. The offense has settled into a predictable rhythm, posting exactly 23 points in each of the past two weeks against the Browns and Jets. Defensively, they’ve been lights-out since a 44-10 loss to the Texans on Oct. 5, allowing no opponent more than 20 points. The Ravens are 3-2 against the spread during this win streak, showcasing resilience despite a schedule that has drawn scrutiny for its lack of marquee foes.
- Passing Game: Lamar Jackson remains the engine, though specific yardage and TD totals are not detailed in previews; his toe issue saw him miss Monday practice but return as a full participant Tuesday.
- Rushing Attack: Derrick Henry anchors the ground game, thriving in cold weather as a 247-pound bruiser; previews highlight his potential for heavy workload in positive game scripts.
- Defense: The unit has been stout lately but “beaten up all year,” ranking vulnerable against aerial attacks; they’ve benefited from softer quarterback matchups recently.
- Special Teams: Not detailed in analyses.
Cincinnati Bengals (Record: Tied with Browns at bottom of AFC North; Recent 26-20 loss to Patriots)
The Bengals limp into Baltimore off a narrow defeat to the Patriots in Week 12, covering as 7.5-point underdogs in that 26-20 final. Offensively, they’re gearing up with key reinforcements, but inconsistencies have kept them mired in the division cellar. Cincinnati has shown fight in close games, staying within one score in recent outings, but needs a spark to salvage their season.
- Passing Game: Joe Burrow returns at full strength from a toe injury, poised to “air it out” against a questionable Ravens secondary; Ja’Marr Chase rejoins after suspension, forming a lethal tandem.
- Rushing Attack: Not highlighted in previews.
- Defense: Faces a Ravens attack in rhythm; no specific rankings noted.
- Special Teams: Not detailed.
- Injuries: Tee Higgins ruled out with concussion; Burrow and Chase both back in action.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Ravens Defense vs. Bengals QB Joe Burrow & WR Ja’Marr Chase: Baltimore’s backfield has held firm recently but enters “beaten up all year,” with Burrow showing no hesitation to push the ball deep. Chase’s return adds explosiveness, especially if the Ravens secondary is compromised.
- Ravens RB Derrick Henry vs. Bengals Front Seven: Henry’s cold-weather prowess shines in favorable scripts as 7-point home favorites; expect a heavy dose if Baltimore controls the clock early.
- Bengals Offense vs. Ravens Secondary: Safety Kyle Hamilton’s ankle (questionable, not 100% on short week) could open seams; the Ravens have faced softer QB competition lately, testing their mettle against Burrow’s precision.
Head-to-Head History & Recent Trends
This AFC North rivalry has delivered offense in spades, cashing the over in six straight meetings. The Ravens hold the tiebreaker edge in the division, but Cincinnati has proven pesky, often keeping games tight—much like their recent cover as underdogs. Baltimore’s five-game streak looks solid on paper (3-2 ATS), yet previews note the competition level leaves room for doubt against a motivated Bengals squad. Thanksgiving trends favor shootouts here, with the total line reflecting expectations of fireworks.
Injury Report & Game Notes
- Ravens: Questionable – S Kyle Hamilton (ankle, could miss with short week); Full participant – QB Lamar Jackson (toe); Returning – WR Rashod Bateman (no designation after missing last two games).
- Bengals: Out – WR Tee Higgins (concussion); Back – QB Joe Burrow (toe, full strength); Back – WR Ja’Marr Chase (suspension).
Odds context notes Baltimore as 7- or 7.5-point home favorites, with a total hovering at 51.5-52.5, underscoring the anticipated high-octane affair. As temperatures dip just above freezing, execution on both sides—especially in the passing game—could define this Thanksgiving classic.
