Walk-Off Thoughts: Defense Stands Tall When Bengals Needed Them Most In Win Over Ravens

Cincinnati has won nine-straight games.

Author:
James Rapien
Publish date:
Jan 16, 2023 1:24 PM EST

In this story:

CINCINNATI — Sam Hubbard's historic 98-yard fumble recovery sent shockwaves throughout Cincinnati and the NFL on Sunday night.

The Bengals were like a prize fighter on the ropes against a familiar opponent, but their defense delivered a knockout in the final round.

Germaine Pratt stood Tyler Huntley up at the goal line and Logan Wilson knocked the ball away directly into Hubbard's arms to start what will undoubtedly go down as the biggest play in Bengals' history.

Instead of falling behind by a touchdown, Cincinnati's defenses bobbed and weaved their way to a fourth playoff win in two seasons.

"You can’t even dream that one up," Hubbard said. "It’s pretty special, but I was just glad to see my teammates faces because that was a bad one. It was a toughly fought game. A lot of adversity, very physical. To make the play and be the guy to come through is an amazing feeling. Not only for my teammates, but the fans as well.”

This Bengals' defense always seems to make a play with the game on the line. From forcing a fumble with the game on the line in New England to coming up with four second half turnovers in Tampa Bay—this team continues to make plays in critical moments.

Cincinnati has won nine-straight games, which is a franchise record. They've also won playoff games in consecutive seasons for the first time in team history.

“We’ve never panicked when we’ve been in these spots," Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow said. "We understand we have guys that go make plays in moments like that. That gives us faith to stay within ourselves and do our jobs.”

It won't get any easier with offensive line injuries mounting, but they're confident they can continue their run on Sunday in Buffalo.

“It’s an exciting moment. We’ll enjoy this win then move on to the next one," Burrow said on Sunday night. "They’re a great team with a great quarterback. I look forward to the challenge.”

Cincinnati and Buffalo meet in the Divisional round this Sunday at 3 p.m. ET on CBS. The game is available via fuboTV—start your free trial here.

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