Cincinnati Bengals fans are on the edge of their seats as the team faces a critical quarterback decision ahead of their Sunday clash with the New England Patriots. Star quarterback Joe Burrow, who has been sidelined since a September win against the Jacksonville Jaguars, is officially listed as questionable for the upcoming game.
Burrow's Race Against Time
Burrow, who required surgery for a turf toe injury, has been making a remarkably swift recovery. Head Coach Zac Taylor confirmed that Burrow has done everything possible to get back on the field. “I think Joe has done everything he can to put himself in a position to get back,” Taylor stated. Despite this positive progress, the coach emphasized that the team is taking its time, with no final decision made yet.
Burrow's practice involvement has been a key indicator. He returned to practice in a limited capacity last week and has now progressed to 11-on-11 drills this week. However, with only three full days of practice, his readiness for a full game load remains the central question. Taylor views his role as crucial in protecting Burrow from his own eagerness, ensuring the decision is best for both the player and the team.
The Backup Plan and Tight Schedule
If Burrow is not activated from injured reserve, veteran Joe Flacco will get the start. The Bengals, with a record of 3-7 after losing seven of their last eight games, will rely on Flacco's experience. However, Flacco is not at 100% either, as he has been managing a shoulder injury that limited him in practice this week.
Complicating the decision is the team's demanding schedule. The Bengals are set to face the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving night, just five days after the Patriots game. “It’s two games in five days. It’s part of the equation,” Coach Taylor acknowledged, highlighting the need for strategic player management.
Coach Taylor's Final Call
The ultimate responsibility rests with Zac Taylor. “I got to make that decision,” he said, confirming the team will use all the available time to assess Burrow's practice performance. Taylor indicated that if Burrow does start, he would be unleashed without many restrictions, as the team would only put him in if he is fully ready to handle the full game load.
This mid-season comeback is viewed differently from a season opener, and the coaching staff is prepared to let Burrow play his natural game whenever he returns to the lineup. For now, Cincinnati waits, hoping their franchise quarterback can make a triumphant return to turn their struggling season around.
