This season's Ravens-Bengals primetime game will take place in Cincinnati on New Year's Eve, ending a four-year streak of Baltimore hosting. The NFL aimed for equity in scheduling after feedback from Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow about previous matchups. Last year's Thanksgiving game was originally set to be in Cincinnati but was switched to Baltimore last minute. The Ravens have a successful track record at Cincinnati, winning their last three matchups there.

By the Numbers
  • The Ravens have won the last three meetings in Cincinnati.
  • Lamar Jackson is 5-0 as a starter in games played in Cincinnati.
Yes, But

While scheduling is adjusted for fairness, the effectiveness of this approach remains to be seen. The Ravens and Bengals have strong legacies, and any shift in scheduling priorities could impact their competitive dynamics.

State of Play
  • The Ravens are predicted to contend for the AFC North title, with a projected record of 12-5 by some analysts.
  • Recent predictions foresee the Bengals finishing with an 11-6 record and the Steelers possibly having a losing record for the first time since 2003.
What's Next

As the season progresses, analysts expect the Ravens to build momentum with their new additions, potentially enhancing their playoff chances. It will be crucial to monitor Ravens' performance as they navigate difficult games, including their showdown with the Bengals.

Bottom Line

The Ravens face significant pressure this season as they look to reclaim dominance in the AFC North. With ambitious predictions and scheduling adjustments, their performance will be critical in shaping their playoff aspirations.