In reflecting on his extensive career, Browns quarterback Joe Flacco has revealed a particular aversion to playing against the Cincinnati Bengals. Having spent over a decade with the Baltimore Ravens before joining the Browns, Flacco has amassed a wealth of experience in AFC North football. As the Browns gear up for their road regular season finale in Cincinnati, Flacco took a moment to recount some of the challenging matchups he has faced against the Bengals over the years.
Expressing his sentiments, the 38-year-old QB candidly stated, “Yeah, I hate going to Cincinnati.” Flacco attributes this sentiment to the Bengals consistently presenting a formidable challenge on the field. Recalling his early encounters, Flacco acknowledged that in his first year, the Ravens dominated the Bengals, but Cincinnati swiftly transformed into a competitive force. He credited the Bengals for building strong football teams that managed to secure victories against him and his teams in unconventional ways, including on fourth downs and Hail Mary plays.
Flacco’s career record against the Bengals stands at 9-12, marking it as the team against which he has the most losses during his 16-year tenure. Interestingly, the Steelers closely follow, with Flacco holding a 10-11 record against them. One memorable game he referenced from 2013 involved a Hail Mary pass from Bengals QB Andy Dalton to star wideout A.J. Green, resulting in a 51-yard score in the closing seconds of regular play. However, Flacco and the Ravens ultimately triumphed in overtime, with a decisive drive led by Flacco leading to a game-winning 46-yard field goal by Justin Tucker.
Despite the intensity and perhaps less favorable memories associated with facing the Bengals, Flacco acknowledged the competitiveness and quality of the organization. He recognized the Bengals as a consistently strong football team that posed challenges for his teams over an extended period. This acknowledgment reflects Flacco’s respect for the Bengals, even as he prepares for what seems to be his final encounter with them as the Browns’ starting quarterback.
However, Flacco won’t be adding another chapter to his Bengals saga this time, as Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski announced that Jeff Driskel will start in the upcoming game. The decision comes in a game with no playoff implications for the Browns in terms of seeding. Despite the shift in starting quarterbacks, Flacco’s sentiments underscore the enduring impact of his matchups with the Bengals, emphasizing both the challenges faced and the respect maintained for a formidable opponent.
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