Burrow Owns the Loss, Bitonio Pushes Through, and Lamar Leads the Way in Baltimore
Cincinnati Bengals: Burrow Steps Up, Even in Defeat
When a franchise quarterback speaks, the locker room listens. And Joe Burrow didn’t shy away from the moment after a tough loss. The Bengals’ signal-caller took the blame head-on-not just in front of the media, but in front of his teammates and coaches, too.
“He took accountability in front of the team last night, took accountability in his press conference, took accountability with me,” said head coach Zac Taylor. “That’s who he is.”
It’s not just lip service. Burrow’s leadership has always been rooted in accountability.
He knows the standard he sets, and when he doesn’t meet it, he owns it. That matters in a locker room, especially during a stretch run where every snap counts.
Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that Burrow needs to stay true to himself as the season winds down.
“Just confidence-earned confidence-and an air of control,” Pitcher said. “When he steps on the field, he believes he’s the best player out there. That belief spreads to everyone around him.”
That kind of presence can elevate a team, even in adversity. With three games left, the Bengals will need every ounce of that leadership from Burrow-not just the throws, but the tone he sets for the entire roster.
Cleveland Browns: Bitonio Keeps Battling, No Matter the Circumstances
Joel Bitonio didn’t have to come back this year. After more than a decade in the trenches, the veteran left guard had every reason to consider stepping away. But he chose to suit up again, and despite a season that’s fallen far short of expectations, he has zero regrets.
“No regrets,” Bitonio said. “I’m blessed to be able to play football. If someone told me I’d get to play 12 years and counting in the NFL, I would’ve signed up for that a million times.”
That’s not just a quote-it’s a mindset. Bitonio’s been through the highs and lows in Cleveland, and while this season has been another uphill climb, his commitment hasn’t wavered. He’s still out there, grinding in cold-weather games that may not carry playoff implications, but still mean something to him and his teammates.
“You don’t really get to choose when you’re tough,” Bitonio said. “You’re either out there or you’re not. That’s kind of been my mentality.”
Even when he’s not 100%, Bitonio suits up. Not for headlines or accolades, but because that’s who he is-and because he knows it sends a message.
“I can’t let myself down. Hopefully that shows some other guys it’s alright to be a little banged up and go out there and play and compete.”
That’s the kind of leadership that doesn’t always show up on a stat sheet, but it resonates inside a locker room. And for a franchise still trying to find its footing, Bitonio’s presence is as valuable as ever.
Baltimore Ravens: Lamar’s Preparation Pays Off
The Ravens bounced back in a big way in Week 15, and at the center of it all-no surprise-it was Lamar Jackson.
John Harbaugh didn’t mince words after the win. Yes, the Ravens executed, but it all started with their quarterback.
“It still comes back to Lamar; he played great,” Harbaugh said. “He’s been preparing well. He’s been working hard.”
That preparation showed up in a key moment. Facing pressure, Jackson didn’t just react-he anticipated. He pulled the right play from the game plan at the right time, adjusted at the line, and delivered a touchdown strike against the blitz.
“Lamar got us to that play… and made it happen,” Harbaugh said. “To me, that’s a function of preparation.”
It’s easy to focus on Jackson’s athleticism-the broken tackles, the highlight-reel runs-but what’s often overlooked is how much film study, game planning, and trust in the system goes into those moments. He’s not freelancing; he’s executing.
“I think Lamar competes every single week,” Harbaugh added. “He gives you everything he’s got.”
That’s what makes Jackson special. It’s not just the talent-it’s the total package.
The work he puts in Monday through Saturday is showing up on Sundays. And as the Ravens push toward the postseason, that kind of leadership under center could be the difference between a good season and a great one.