In this article, we will explore in depth the topic of Bengals–Ravens rivalry, which has been the subject of interest and debate in various areas. From its origins to its relevance today, we will address its many facets and its impact on society. Through an exhaustive and rigorous analysis, we seek to shed light on different aspects related to Bengals–Ravens rivalry, providing valuable information and diverse perspectives to enrich the knowledge of our readers. By exposing data, testimonies and relevant studies, we aim to offer a complete and objective vision that allows us to understand the importance of Bengals–Ravens rivalry in different contexts and situations.
The two rivals have played twice annually since 1996 when the Ravens assumed the Browns' spot in the former AFC Central Division. Both teams were placed in the AFC North during the 2002 NFL realignment. The Ravens lead the overall series, 30–27. However, the Bengals won the teams’ lone playoff meeting in the 2022 Wild Card Round.
Notable games
November 3, 1996: Bengals 24, Ravens 21 In the first game in the history of the series, the Ravens took a 21–3 lead into halftime. The Bengals scored 21 unanswered 2nd half points to win 24–21.
October 19, 2003: Bengals 34, Ravens 26 This was Bengals' head coach Marvin Lewis' first game against the Ravens. Lewis previously served as the Ravens defensive coordinator from 1996 to 2001, including their Super Bowl XXXV title in 2000.
December 5, 2004: Bengals 27, Ravens 26 The Bengals overcame a 20–3 fourth quarter deficit to win 27–26.
September 10, 2007: Bengals 27, Ravens 20 This season-opening Monday Night Football game was best remembered for a touchdown celebration by Bengals' WR Chad Johnson, who is known for his touchdown celebrations. After a score, he donned a gold jacket, resembling the jackets given to Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees, that read "Future H.O.F. 20??" on the back.
November 10, 2013: Ravens 20, Bengals 17 The Ravens built a 17–0 lead at halftime before the Bengals rallied to make it 17–10 with two seconds left. In the final play of regulation, Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton threw a 49-yard Hail Mary pass. Despite being initially tipped, wide receiver A. J. Green ran toward the ball and caught it to tie the game at 17–17 at the end of regulation. However, the Ravens would win in overtime, 20–17.
September 7, 2014: Bengals 23, Ravens 16 Bengals kicker Mike Nugent kicked five field goals in the first half, tying an NFL record for most field goals kicked in a half.
December 31, 2017: Bengals 31, Ravens 27 In the final game of the regular season in Baltimore, Bengals QB Andy Dalton threw a go-ahead touchdown pass to Tyler Boyd in the closing seconds to give the Bengals, finishing at 7-9, an improbable win over the now-9–7 Ravens. This win, combined with a Buffalo Bills win that day, eliminated the Ravens from playoff contention.
November 18, 2018: Ravens 24, Bengals 21 Ravens start 2018 first round draft pick Lamar Jackson at quarterback for the first time, he breaks the franchise rushing record for a QB with 117 yards. This marked Marvin Lewis' final game in the series, as he left the Cincinnati franchise at the end of the season.
December 26, 2021: Bengals 41, Ravens 21 In 2021, Cincinnati completed a season-sweep over Baltimore with a 41–21 victory at home. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow threw for 525 yards in this game, setting a Bengals franchise record.
January 15, 2023: Bengals 24, Ravens 17 The first playoff game in the rivalry's history occurred in the 2022 AFC Wild Card Round. Sam Hubbard scored on a 98-yard fumble return, colloquially known as the "Fumble in the Jungle", the longest fumble return in NFL postseason history, as Cincinnati registered a 24–17 victory.
Season-by-season results
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens Season-by-Season Results
Bengals' win in Baltimore was their largest win in the rivalry. Bengals QB Joe Burrow throws for 525 yards, sets Bengals franchise record in game in Cincinnati. Bengals lose Super Bowl LVI.
AFC Wild Card Round. First postseason meeting in the series. Ravens QB Tyler Huntley fumbles early in 4th quarter at Bengals' 1-yard line attempting to score on a QB sneak; it was returned 98 yards by Bengals DE Sam Hubbard for a touchdown that ends up being the game-winning score.
^Marcum, Jason. "Ravens vs. Bengals: Live Scores and Analysis for Baltimore". Bleacher Report. Retrieved November 1, 2019. Round 2 of the Baltimore Ravens' rivalry with the Cincinnati Bengals will take place in Week 8. After losing at home to Cincinnati in Week 1, Baltimore will look to avoid the season-sweep while maintaining their lead in the AFC North.