The Thanksgiving showdown between the Ravens and Bengals is set to feature Joseph Ossai as a key defensive presence for Cincinnati, while the Commanders face uncertainty with Jayden Daniels’ injury status.
Daniels, though practicing, remains a long shot to return for Week 13 against the Broncos, leaving Washington’s offense in flux. Meanwhile, analysts predict the Ravens’ defensive surge could dominate the holiday matchup.
- Joseph Ossai expected to be a key factor in Ravens vs Bengals Thanksgiving game as analysts predict Baltimore’s dominance.
- Jayden Daniels is practicing but remains a long shot to return for Commanders’ Week 13 matchup against Broncos.
- Washington’s QB situation remains uncertain with Daniels unlikely to play, potentially impacting the team’s playoff push.
Joseph Ossai’s Key Role in Ravens vs Bengals Thanksgiving Clash: Will He Be the Game-Changer?
The upcoming Thanksgiving showdown between the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals has fans buzzing about defensive end Joseph Ossai’s potential impact. Ossai, known for his explosive pass-rushing ability, faces a Ravens offensive line that has allowed the fewest sacks in the league this season. His performance could dictate whether the Bengals contain Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities.
Historical data shows Ossai has recorded 5.5 sacks in his last seven divisional games. However, the Ravens’ innovative blocking schemes present a unique challenge. Cincinnati’s defensive coordinator has been experimenting with Ossai in new linebacker-edge hybrid roles to maximize his athleticism against mobile quarterbacks.
Ossai’s Pass Rush vs Ravens’ Protection Schemes
Baltimore’s offensive line has allowed just 12 sacks all season, thanks to their innovative slide protections and chip blocks. Ossai will need to counter with:
- Varied rush angles (inside/outside stunts)
- Effective hand-fighting techniques
- Quick recognition of screen passes
Jayden Daniels’ Elbow Injury: How Long Until Commanders’ Star QB Returns?
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a left elbow dislocation during their Week 11 loss to Seattle, leaving fans wondering about his recovery timeline. Medical experts suggest typical recovery for this injury ranges from 2-6 weeks depending on severity.
The Commanders’ medical staff is reportedly taking a cautious approach, knowing Daniels’ throwing mechanics could be affected long-term if rushed back. Backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett will start against Denver in Week 13, with Daniels unlikely to play before Week 15 at the earliest.
Potential Impact on Commanders’ Playoff Hopes
Washington currently sits at 7-5 in the crowded NFC wildcard race. Without Daniels, their offense loses:
| Stat | With Daniels | Without Daniels |
|---|---|---|
| Points/Game | 27.4 | 18.2 |
| 3rd Down % | 45% | 32% |
| Explosive Plays | 6.1/game | 3.8/game |
Can Commanders Survive Without Jayden Daniels? Brissett’s Chance to Shine
Veteran backup Jacoby Brissett now faces the challenge of keeping Washington’s playoff hopes alive. Brissett has shown flashes of competence in relief appearances this season, completing 68% of his passes with 3 touchdowns and 1 interception in limited action.
The Broncos’ defense presents a tough challenge, ranking top-10 in pass defense. However, their vulnerability against play-action could benefit Brissett, who’s excelled in those concepts throughout his career. Washington’s coaching staff will likely:
- Simplify the playbook
- Increase running back touches
- Utilize more two-TE sets
Ravens-Bengals Thanksgiving Showdown: Which Defense Will Feast?
This historic rivalry takes center stage on Thanksgiving with both teams fighting for AFC North supremacy. The Ravens’ top-ranked defense faces a Bengals offense missing star QB Joe Burrow (toe injury), creating an intriguing matchup.
Cincinnati’s offense has struggled without Burrow, averaging just 17 points per game in his absence. The Ravens’ defensive strengths play directly into these weaknesses:
| Ravens Defense Rank | Bengals Offense Weakness |
|---|---|
| #1 in Red Zone Defense | 29th in Red Zone Efficiency |
| #2 in Pass Defense | 31st in Pass Protection |
| #3 in Takeaways | 2nd Most Giveaways |
When Will Jayden Daniels Return? Commanders’ Playoff Push Timeline
Washington’s medical staff faces a delicate balancing act with Daniels’ recovery. While the team remains optimistic about a Week 15-16 return, several factors will determine his actual comeback date:
- Pain tolerance during throwing sessions
- Regaining full range of motion
- Muscle memory retention in mechanics
The Commanders’ remaining schedule features two critical division games against Dallas and Philadelphia where Daniels’ return could prove decisive. His ability to extend plays with his legs might be more affected than his throwing ability initially.

Joseph Ossai better bring his A-game against Lamar or the Bengals D-line is toast 🍞. Ravens’ O-line has been solid lately.
Solid? They gave up 3 sacks last week. Ossai’s gonna feast if they play like that again.
Why’s everyone obsessing over Daniels’ elbow? Dude threw 25TDs as a rookie. Let him heal properly instead of rushing back for a doomed Broncos game.
Ossai’s overrated. Dude had 1 good play in his career and y’all act like he’s TJ Watt. Ravens by 10+.
Tell me you don’t watch film without telling me. Ossai pressures QBs at elite rates when healthy.
Elite rates? 🤡 Dude has 4.5 career sacks. Sit down.
Commanders handling Daniels’ injury right. No need to risk franchise QB’s health for a mediocre season. Smart long-term move.
Can we talk about how Quinn left Daniels in to get hurt while down 24? Fire that man into the sun 🔥