Pro Football History.com Blog
September 17th, 2025
By Stephen Juza
So much for our MVP pick. Less than two weeks into the season, our preseason MVP pick has been sidelined for several months with an impending toe surgery. The two-time Comeback Player of the Year suffered the injury in the first half of Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, an eventual 31-27 victory for the Bengals. But it will likely serve as a pyrrhic victory in a year we anticipated the team to win the AFC North. What does this mean for the Bengals? In today’s article, we look at possible impacts for the 2025 season for the team, and what it means for Burrow’s future.
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Roster Changes
With only one other quarterback on the roster, the Bengals will have to add someone else to the quarterback room immediately. They activated Brett Rypien from the practice squad and signed a few others, but if they want more talent, they will have to look elsewhere. There are a few teams who have a surplus of quarterbacks, and the Bengals could look to trade for one. One stumbling block to several names on the market is that the team is in ‘win-now’ mode, and it’s not likely that there is a quarterback available that could keep the ship sailing in the interim.
Possible options include Anthony Richardson, Kirk Cousins, but Richardson is on a rookie contract and cheap for the Colts to hold on to, and Cousins is very expensive and probably not worth the cost. Another option could be Jameis Winston, currently on the New York Giants. While the Giants have Russell Wilson as the starter, and Jaxson Dart as the quarterback of the future, Winston could be the easiest quarterback to pry away from another team.
Impact to the Season
Three months puts Burrow returning for a Week 17 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. If his recovery is quicker, he will return for at least one of the pivotal matchups against the Baltimore Ravens. Before the season started, the Bengals three-game stretch from Week 13 to Week 16 was going to be the most important stretch for the season. Starting on the road against the defending AFC North champion Ravens, on the road against the defending AFC East champion Buffalo Bills, then hosting the Ravens would prove to everyone who the Bengals were as the season was coming to an end.
Now, the Bengals are going to likely hope for a Wildcard appearance and hope for a full-strength Burrow by the end of December. Anything short of a playoff run may not be enough for head coach Zac Taylor. In his first six seasons in Cincinnati, the team has finished third or fourth in the division four times. As much as fans want him back, Taylor may need a healthy Burrow to return for the 2026 season.
Impact to Burrow
Burrow is already in the unfortunate position of being one of the few two-time winners of the Comeback Player of the Year award, but this injury may put him in line for yet another award in 2026. But that’s only if he can remain healthy and on the field, which he has struggled with in his career. In his six seasons, he has only played more than ten games three times.
When he has played, he is a player who you can build around, and with his monster contract he signed it’s clear that he will be in Cincinnati for a few more years at least. But this latest injury will raise the question if Burrow will be someone you can count on long term. If you are building around a player, you have to count on him being in the lineup. He will have missed 26 games since the 2020 season, and when you compare him to other top quarterbacks, there is simply no comparison in durability. Bills quarterback has not missed a game during that timeframe. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has missed three. Lamar Jackson has missed twelve.
Overall, the Bengals will have a difficult road in front of them for the 2025 season, and if Burrow continues to miss time, they may have some tough questions ahead.
September 17th, 2025
The NFL's history is filled with intense coaching rivalries that have significantly influenced the sport. These legendary matchups have not only defined seasons but have also left a lasting impact on the game. As fans continue to engage with these narratives, new technologies like simulations and gaming experiences enhance their understanding and enjoyment.
Historic NFL Coaching Showdowns
Fans today can also explore these historic rivalries through innovative platforms like this one, which offer interactive ways to engage with the sport. The fierce rivalries between iconic NFL coaches have left a lasting impact on the league's history, offering some of the most thrilling narratives in sports.
The strategic battles between these legendary figures have often determined the fate of entire seasons, captivating fans worldwide. These showdowns are more than just games; they are epic tales of strategy, determination, and rivalry that define what it means to compete at the highest level. With each matchup, coaches left their unique imprint on the sport, creating moments that resonate with fans and analysts alike.
Strategic battles that defined NFL coaching rivalries
Coaching showdowns in the NFL are a masterclass in strategy and execution, where every decision can alter the course of a game or season. The meticulous planning and tactical genius displayed in these duels highlight why coaching is as much a part of the game as the players themselves.
Coaches like Vince Lombardi and Tom Landry crafted their legacies through these intense encounters, using innovative strategies to outsmart their opponents. These rivalries pushed coaches to refine their playbooks and adapt their approaches, leading to some of the most memorable moments in NFL history.
In addition to the tactical maneuvers on the field, these rivalries often included psychological warfare off it. Legendary coaches would engage in mind games, media banter, and subtle digs to gain any possible advantage over their adversaries. The narrative tension created by these off-field antics added another layer to the already high-stakes battles, drawing even casual fans into the drama. This blend of strategy and psychology turned ordinary games into legendary spectacles that still captivate audiences today.
Impact of historic matchups on fan engagement
Historic coaching matchups have played a pivotal role in fostering fan engagement and sparking discussions within the football community. Fans passionately debate who had the better tactics or which coach was truly superior, keeping these rivalries alive long after the final whistle. These discussions are fueled by personal anecdotes and vivid memories of iconic plays that turned games around. Such matchups create an emotional connection between fans and their teams, strengthening loyalty and intensifying rivalries among fanbases.
The enduring appeal of these coaching duels lies in their ability to transcend time. Whether reliving past glories through replays or engaging in spirited debates online, fans remain captivated by these legendary encounters. The stories behind these matchups are not only a part of NFL lore but also serve as a reminder of how competition can bring out the best in individuals and teams. These narratives continue to inspire new generations of fans who seek to understand and appreciate the history of the sport.
Enhancing football experiences through interactive gaming
The evolution of interactive gaming has revolutionized how modern audiences engage with football, providing immersive experiences that bring historic rivalries to life. Through simulations and virtual recreations, fans can step into the shoes of their favorite coaches and relive iconic moments from past matches. This dynamic form of engagement allows for a deeper understanding of tactical decisions and strategic nuances that defined those legendary encounters.
Moreover, interactive gaming experiences offer an exciting way for fans to test their skills and knowledge against others worldwide. By participating in these virtual environments, fans can experience the thrill of making real-time decisions similar to those faced by legendary coaches during critical moments. These platforms not only enhance fan engagement but also provide an educational aspect by illustrating complex game dynamics in a fun and accessible manner.
Beyond the excitement, platforms like real money online casinos offer fans a unique way to engage with the sport. These platforms provide opportunities to experience the thrill of competition in a controlled environment, where strategy and decision-making are key. By simulating the high-stakes nature of NFL coaching rivalries, fans can appreciate the intricacies of the game while enjoying a modern twist on traditional sports engagement.
Timeless influence of coaching rivalries on NFL history
These coaching rivalries transcend time, continually influencing how fans perceive and engage with NFL history's rich tapestry. The legacy left by legendary coaches endures in today's game through tactics passed down from one generation to another. Current coaches often draw inspiration from past masters when crafting strategies or motivating players before crucial matches.
As you explore the world of legendary NFL coaching rivalries, you'll discover how these historic battles have shaped not only individual seasons but also broader trends within professional football itself. The ongoing fascination with these iconic rivalries highlights their significant impact on shaping both fan culture and sporting excellence at its highest level.
September 16th, 2025
The Baltimore Ravens enter the 2025 NFL season accompanied by both excitement and scrutiny surrounding them. As perennial contenders with a proven track record, the franchise continues to attract the attention of fans, analysts, and bettors across the United States.
With Lamar Jackson leading the offense, expectations remain high, yet challenges in the schedule and roster shifts raise questions about whether the Ravens can finally turn potential into a championship run.
The story of their upcoming campaign is about more than wins and losses; it is also about how oddsmakers view their chances, how bettors assess their value, and how momentum shapes perceptions week to week.
This season, Baltimore faces a unique test: balancing the weight of its contender narrative with the reality of fierce AFC competition. Understanding their outlook requires a closer look at preseason odds, Lamar Jackson’s early form, key players, must-win matches, and where betting markets may reveal hidden opportunities.
The Odds Coming Into 2025/26
Sportsbooks set the tone for the season well before the first kickoff, and player outlooks for the 2025/26 campaign illustrate how much faith the market continues to place in this team. Coming off another strong regular season and deep playoff push, the Ravens open among the favorites to win both the AFC and the Super Bowl.
Bettors who study the numbers will almost immediately notice that Baltimore consistently finds itself priced near the top, even when questions arise about health or roster depth. This positioning reflects not just talent but also trust; oddsmakers know the Ravens attract heavy betting interest.
However, the 2025/26 lines also account for external challenges. Rivals like the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills remain formidable, while younger AFC teams continue to push Baltimore harder than ever.
The Ravens’ opening prices reflect a roster under pressure: short odds that acknowledge elite potential, paired with the reality of a conference stacked with contenders.
Lamar Jackson’s Shaky Start
No matter how strong a preseason outlook looks, early results can quickly shift perceptions. Jackson’s shaky start to the 2025 season has left sportsbooks adjusting Lamar Jackson prop bets, moving the Ravens from near-lock favorites to a more uncertain proposition.
Jackson has struggled to find an early rhythm, showing flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency in reads, red-zone execution, and chemistry with new receivers. For bettors, this becomes both a warning sign and an opportunity: odds may drift slightly, creating more favorable prices for those who still believe in Jackson’s long-term upside.
Historically, Jackson responds well when challenged, using criticism as fuel to refine his game. His ability to rebound from early struggles is part of what makes him one of the league’s most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks. Yet, opening missteps highlight issues sportsbooks cannot ignore, such as timing with the offensive line, reliance on designed runs, and accuracy in tight-window throws.
For bettors, the takeaway is clear: Lamar Jackson’s slow start doesn’t erase Baltimore’s contender status, but it does add volatility. This volatility often creates short-term value, particularly in weekly props and futures markets where public perception tends to overreact.
Key Players
When analyzing the Ravens’ 2025/26 chances, the conversation inevitably comes back to the players who define their season. Lamar Jackson remains the centerpiece, with his blend of athleticism and creativity making Baltimore a constant threat regardless of surrounding questions. As long as Jackson is healthy, the Ravens command respect from oddsmakers and bettors alike. Supporting him are key playmakers like tight end Mark Andrews, whose connection with Jackson fuels Baltimore’s red-zone production, and rookie standouts in the receiving corps who offer a needed vertical boost.
On the defensive side, Roquan Smith leads a linebacking unit that sets the tone, while the secondary, anchored by Kyle Hamilton, gives the Ravens flexibility to counter elite passing attacks. Each of these players influences how the markets evaluate the team from week to week.
Must-Win Matches
Every NFL season contains a handful of games that shape a team’s trajectory, and for Baltimore in 2025, several stand out as must-win contests.
Divisional games against the Steelers, Bengals, and Browns carry extra weight, not only for standings but also for establishing supremacy in one of the NFL’s toughest divisions. Dropping multiple divisional matchups would raise serious doubts about the Ravens’ ability to control their playoff path.
Equally critical are high-profile showdowns with the Chiefs and Bills. These contests influence seeding and give bettors benchmarks to measure Baltimore’s true strength against the AFC’s elite. A primetime matchup with the San Francisco 49ers also looms as a Super Bowl litmus test, where Baltimore must prove its balance and consistency.
The Browns Bounce Back
Baltimore’s Week 2 victory over Cleveland reminded bettors why the Ravens remain a top-tier threat in the AFC. Yet with Baltimore consistently priced as a favorite, the task for bettors is to identify hidden value in 2025/26 markets. Straight Super Bowl futures typically provide modest returns, as odds rarely drift enough to offer major upside.
Alternative plays provide more opportunities. Lamar Jackson props, particularly on rushing yards, passing totals, or touchdowns, carry weight when matched against defenses that struggle with mobile quarterbacks.
Market shifts after early-game challenges can also create openings on spreads, as public money often overreacts to perceived weakness, pushing lines in ways savvy bettors can exploit.
Divisional futures deserve attention as well. Even if the Ravens stumble out of the gate, odds can lengthen despite Baltimore’s history of finishing seasons strong. Ultimately, success comes from timing: separating hype from on-field reality. Baltimore’s brand name and Jackson’s MVP profile shape perceptions, but disciplined bettors who know when to ride momentum and when to pivot stand to gain the most.
A Familiar Position
The 2025 NFL season places the Baltimore Ravens in a familiar yet precarious position: high expectations mixed with undeniable pressure. Their preseason odds reflect contender status, but Lamar Jackson’s shaky start reminds bettors that success never comes guaranteed.
The roster, anchored by Jackson and other key stars, keeps Baltimore firmly in the championship conversation, while must-win games against rivals will dictate the arc of their season. For those studying the 2025/26 outlook, the key lies in balance, acknowledging both the strengths that sustain this franchise and the vulnerabilities that shape its betting value.
In the end, the Ravens’ journey this year offers fans and bettors not only drama on the field but also opportunities in the markets that mirror the highs and lows of NFL competition.
September 14th, 2025
Sport is about competition, and competition is about rivalry. Nowhere is this clearer than in the NFL, where teams become opponents and opponents become foes every day of the season. Being up against your team’s strangers rivals can be tricky when betting, which is why it helps to find a list of promotions among online sportsbooks with great bonuses and betting options. These help to balance the scales even during the toughest games. The following are some of the most legendary rivalries that sent ripples through the football community.
Green Bay Packers vs Chicago Bears
It seems appropriate to start with the oldest rivalry in the NFL. The league, then called the American Professional Football League, was founded in 1920 and, in 1921, two teams that would go on to define what it meant to have a rivalry met for the very first time. Put simply, the conflict between the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers has been going on for more than a century, and it looks like it will continue for at least another hundred years.
The first time the teams met, the Bears were still called the Staleys, although their different name didn’t stop them from winning 20-0. Since then, Green Bay has enjoyed some revenge, winning 108 of the sides’ games, with Chicago coming up tops in 96 of them and six ties.
Whether it was the fight between Frank Hally and Tilley Voss that led to the first ever NFL ejection in 1924, the 2010 NFC championship game where the Packers won en route to Superbowl glory, or the new generation of competition between Jordan Love and Caleb Williams, the age-old rivalry between the small town and the big city is set to carry on enthralling fans.
New York Giants vs Philadelphia Eagles
What people in the UK call a local derby is a relatively rare occurrence in American sports, thanks to the large distances involved and the conference system. That said, football’s greatest regional rivalry is the battle of the northeast between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants.
Another long-standing feud, the seeds of this rivalry were sown in 1933 and grew as the teams got bigger in the 1950s and 1960s. Although honors may be relatively even, the Eagles can claim their own footballing divine intervention - twice.
The first Miracle at the Meadowlands took place in 1978. The Giants were up at their home field 17-12 with 20 seconds left, and all that was needed to happen was a spike to ensure victory. But New York quarterback Joe Pisarcik fumbled and Eagles cornerback Herman Edwards collected the loose ball to score.
There was an even more dramatic moment in 2010, when the second Miracle at the Meadowlands saw the Eagles overturn a 31-10 deficit with just seven minutes left to win 36-10. Whether or not there’ll be more miracles, with a playoff place at stake most of the time the teams meet, this feud is set to run and run.
Dallas Cowboys vs San Francisco 49ers
The Dallas Cowboys call themselves America’s Team, but there are plenty of people in the Bay Area who would dispute that. The San Francisco 49ers' rivalry with the Cowboys really kicked off in the 1970s, when the West Coast franchise was the upcoming power challenging the Texas team’s dominance.
Things stepped up a gear in the 1980s, when a last-minute touchdown by SF won them the NFC championship, while the same teams played for their conference title three years in a row in the 1990s. Although neither side is quite the powerhouse of old, there’s still more intensity - and more history - when the two meet than there is for many other matchups.
Cincinnati Bengals vs Kansas City Chiefs
We’ve talked about long-standing rivalries, but with the world of the NFL an intense pressure cooker, new ones are being forged all the time. It wasn’t that long ago that a Cincinnati Bengals vs Kansas City Chiefs game would have been met with a shrug anywhere outside of the franchise’s home areas.
In the 2020s, however, everything changed. The two sides found themselves with two of the hottest young quarterbacks in the league. Representing the Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes was the highest-rated QB around.
In 2020, though, the Bengals drafted an offensive cornerstone who would bring the eyes of the game to southern Ohio. Joe Burrows was handsome, strong, and preternaturally talented, and was the sort of player any coach would give his eyeteeth to build a team around. Thanks to him and head coach Zac Taylor, the Bengals turned from being also-rans into Super Bowl contenders.
With the two sides - and the two stars - on a collision course, this rivalry can not only decide the fate of the AFC but, potentially, the NFL season itself. Time will only tell if this will be a feud for the ages, or if it's all about the competition between the game’s current top two quarterbacks.
September 13th, 2025
The Detroit Lions have taken a decisive step in shaping their offensive future by securing a contract extension with wide receiver Jameson Williams. Known for his explosive speed and ability to stretch defenses, Williams has quickly become one of the most promising young receivers in the league. By finalizing a new deal, the Lions have reinforced their commitment to building around a dynamic passing game that can complement their strong running attack.
Williams entered the league with high expectations after a standout college career, and despite an initial period of adjustment, he has begun to showcase the qualities that made him a first-round pick. His ability to create separation on deep routes and his knack for big plays have been evident, giving quarterback Jared Goff a reliable downfield option. The extension ensures that this growing connection will remain central to the Lions’ offensive strategy for years to come.
The timing of the move reflects the franchise’s belief in Williams as a cornerstone player. Locking him in during this stage of his development not only provides security for the player but also stability for the organization. By committing resources to a player with game-breaking talent, the Lions are sending a clear message that they intend to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving NFC landscape.
Midway through the announcement, fan discussions also turned to how roster moves like this impact the perception of the team in broader sports circles. Platforms such as Betfred often see increased activity when significant contract news breaks, as the markets react to shifts in team strength and long-term outlooks. Williams’ extension is not only a boost on the field but also a signal to observers that the Detroit Lions are serious contenders.
Looking beyond the financial details, the extension highlights the growing culture of trust between the Lions’ front office and their emerging stars. Young players seeing long term investment are more likely to buy into the system and commit themselves fully to the organization’s goals. This culture of continuity has been a major factor in successful franchises across NFL history, as explored further in this article on team building.
Observers have also pointed out that Williams’ contract aligns with recent trends in the league, where top receiving talents are being secured earlier to avoid escalating market prices. The NFL Players Association has emphasized how these deals give athletes more certainty while allowing teams to retain key contributors without facing excessive bidding wars down the line. By acting decisively, Detroit has positioned itself to manage its salary cap more effectively and maintain roster balance.
For Williams, the extension represents a validation of his hard work and perseverance. Recovering from injury setbacks and adjusting to the speed of professional play is never simple, yet his trajectory has remained upward. With this new contract, he has both the security and the platform to continue growing into one of the premier wide receivers in the league.