Zac Taylor commends 'complete performance' following Bengals' decisive victory over Ravens on Thanksgiving.

The Bengals have clearly faced difficulties throughout 2025. The absence of Joe Burrow for a significant 10-week period undoubtedly contributed, and furthermore, the Cincinnati defense has found it challenging to prevent opponents from scoring touchdowns.

Before last night's contest, the Bengals ranked last in the NFL for points surrendered per game, with an average exceeding 32, being the sole team in the league to allow over 30. This narrative shifted significantly on Thanksgiving, however, as the Bengals secured a decisive 32-14 victory. The Cincinnati defense was exceptional, generating five turnovers and conceding merely two touchdowns. Their run defense was stout, limiting Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson to a combined 87 rushing yards.

Joe Burrow's offensive performance included 261 passing yards and two touchdowns, highlighted by a remarkable one-handed reception by tight end Tanner Hudson. This significant team win ended a four-game losing streak, bringing the Bengals' record to 4-8 overall and an impressive 3-1 within AFC North games.

After the game, head coach Zac Taylor spoke on the impressive victory. "That was the first all-around game we played all season, it felt like." Taylor said. Taylor went on to praise all aspects of the victory, most notably the defense. That said, he also spoke highly of kicker Evan McPherson who was a perfect 6/6 on field goals including a 52-yard try. 

The Bengals' challenging end-of-season slate persists next week with a trip to Buffalo to play the Bills.

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