Get ready for an exciting NFL AFC North showdown as the Cincinnati Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens collide once again on Sunday, September 17, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET, this time at Paycor Stadium, previously known as Paul Brown Stadium. This Bengals vs Ravens matchup is a rematch from the Wild Card Round of the previous season, promising an electrifying encounter for NFL fans. Wondering who will win? Continue reading for Bengals vs Ravens Prediction.
In Week 1 of the 2023 NFL campaign, the Cincinnati Bengals faced a tough challenge against their rivals Cleveland Browns, considered among the top rivalries in the NFL, ultimately falling short with a 24-3 defeat. On the other hand, the Baltimore Ravens managed to secure a convincing victory over the Houston Texans, winning 25-9.
As we delve into the Ravens vs Bengals prediction, football enthusiasts are eager to see how these two teams will fare in their second meeting of the season. It’s a clash that promises suspense, strategy, and a battle for supremacy in the AFC North.
Bengals vs Ravens Game Info
- Game Date: Sunday, September 17, 2023
- Time: 1:00 PM ET
- Venue: Paycor Stadium,
Ravens vs Bengals Preview
The NFL Week 2 has started featuring popular NFL teams, the upcoming match of NFL Week 2 is Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens. Let’s preview the game in all aspects.
Bengals’ Humbling Start
- Zac Taylor, a two-time AFC Championship finalist, led the Cincinnati Bengals into the 2023 NFL season.
- In Week 1, they faced the Cleveland Browns and struggled, allowing 350 yards while failing to find their offensive rhythm.
- The talented Bengals receiving corps was held in check, and the offense managed only six first downs.
Orlando Brown Bolsters Pass Protection
- Notably, the addition of four-time Pro Bowl guard Orlando Brown seemed to improve their pass protection.
- Cincinnati’s offensive line surrendered only two sacks in the opening game, reflecting Brown’s impact.
Cincinnati’s Strong Home Record
- The Bengals have a remarkable history of success at home, having won their last seven games at Paycor Stadium during the 2022-23 regular season and playoffs.
- Their last home loss to a divisional opponent dates back to November 2021 when they were defeated by the Browns.
Dominance on Defense
- In the previous season, the Bengals boasted the best defense in the AFC North, allowing just 18.5 points per game.
- They also led the division in points per game, averaging 26.1, showcasing their defensive prowess.
Ravens’ Defensive Prowess
- Under the coaching of John Harbaugh, considered among the top NFL coaches, the Baltimore Ravens are known for their stout defense.
- In Week 1, they displayed their defensive dominance by relentlessly pressuring the Houston Texans, recording five quarterback sacks and 10 hits.
Securing the Secondary
- Baltimore’s secondary, which ranked seventh in the NFL for passing yards allowed per game in 2022, continued to excel.
- They stifled the Texans’ rookie quarterback CJ Stroud, limiting him to a sub-80 passer rating and just 5.5 yards per attempt.
Ravens’ Running Game
- Baltimore’s offensive strategy often relies on a strong running game, which was evident in Week 1.
- They ran for an impressive 169 yards with three rushing touchdowns while allowing only 72 rushing yards to their opponents.
Strong Game Starts
- The Ravens have an NFL history of starting games strongly, scoring the opening touchdown in 15 of their last 19 regular-season games played on Sundays.
- Additionally, they have won the opening quarter in seven successive road matchups against AFC opponents.
Recent Form
- As they enter this matchup, the Cincinnati Bengals carry a “L” in their recent form.
- In contrast, the Baltimore Ravens are in good form with a “W” from their recent game.
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Bengals vs Ravens Head to Head
Sunday’s game marks the second meeting between these teams in 2023. In their previous AFC Wild Card clash in January of the previous season, the Bengals emerged victorious with a score of 24-17, thanks to Sam Hubbard’s heroics, returning a Tyler Huntley fumble 98 yards for the game-winning score.
| Meeting History | Year | Result | Notable Moments |
| Second Meeting | 2023 | Bengals 24 – Ravens 17 | Sam Hubbard’s 98-yard fumble return for a game-winning touchdown in AFC Wild Card clash |
| Overall Series | N/A | Ravens 28 – Bengals 27 | Ravens hold a slight edge in the series |
| Recent Victory | 2022 | Bengals 27 – Ravens 16 | Bengals secured a regular-season victory at home |
| Ravens’ Last Win | 2021 | Ravens 38 – Bengals 3 | Lamar Jackson’s impressive performance with two touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns in Cincinnati |
Overall, the Ravens hold a slight edge in the series, leading 28-27. However, the Bengals clinched a crucial regular-season victory at home against Baltimore in 2022, winning 27-16, with standout performances from players like Chase, Tyler Boyd, and Ossai.
The Ravens’ last victory in Cincinnati occurred in January 2021 when Lamar Jackson orchestrated an impressive offensive display, securing a 38-3 win with two touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns.
Bengals vs Ravens Prediction
As the Bengals aim to bounce back from their disappointing season opener, they remain a resilient team with a track record of success. Despite their Week 1 struggles, they possess the potential for a strong performance. On the other side, the Ravens’ offense appears somewhat one-dimensional, heavily reliant on their running game. If they struggle to establish their ground game, they may face difficulties containing the Bengals throughout the match.
Our Bengals vs Ravens Prediction prediction is a close game, with the Cincinnati Bengals prevailing 21-17 over the Baltimore Ravens. Remember, one game does not define a season, and both teams have the capability to turn things around or build on their early successes in the 2023 NFL campaign.
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