The Bengals return from their Week 6 bye after beating the Miami Dolphins 31-24 in Week 5. They now face the Baltimore Ravens on the road.

The divisional clash offers Cincinnati a chance to strengthen its position in the AFC North. In comments made to reporters, Joe Burrow stressed the importance of the upcoming contest.

The quarterback acknowledged that plenty of football remains this season. However, he explained that games against Baltimore carry extra significance when divisional positions are hanging in the balance:

"It's a big game. There's no hiding from that. There's a lot of football to be played after this, but anytime we play the Ravens with placing in the division on the line, it's going to be a big game, so we're treating it that way."

The Cincinnati quarterback also emphasized the need to capitalize on the opportunity and secure a massive victory:

"We [have] to go and get a big win this weekend."

A win could help the Bengals build momentum after their bye and strengthen their divisional ambitions. They will need to turn that urgency into a strong performance against a familiar rival.

Former Bengals star Trey Hendrickson set for reunion with Cincinnati

The matchup also brings former Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson back as an opponent after he joined Baltimore earlier this year.

Burrow spent years practicing alongside Hendrickson and knows the pass rusher well. Their history adds a personal dimension to Sunday's contest, with Hendrickson now looking to make an impact against his former teammates.

The reunion adds another compelling subplot to an important AFC North showdown.

Written by

Sayantan