Michael David Smith ,
Facebook
Sunday’s Bengals-Ravens game was unique in NFL history.
The Bengals dominated the time of possession, having the ball for a total of 39 minutes, 19 seconds. The Ravens had the ball for just 20 minutes, 41 seconds. Usually, a team that wins the time of possession battle like that also wins the game.
The Bengals did not. In fact, the Bengals’ 24-0 loss was historic for how badly they were beaten while dominating the clock. No team in NFL history had ever lost a game by 24 or more points while dominating time of possession by such a large margin.
The Ravens’ scoring came fast: Their first touchdown drive took just 2:59 off the clock. Their second touchdown drive was lightning-fast, covering 80 yards in just 42 seconds. They then kicked a field goal after a possession that lasted 2:44, and finally scored a touchdown on an 84-yard interception return.
The Bengals, on the other hand, had very long drives that yielded nothing. A 16-play drive ended with an interception. One 11-play drive ended with a punt and another 11-play drive ended with a turnover on downs. The Bengals had the ball for long periods of time and not only didn’t score, but rarely even looked like they were a threat to score.
It’s been that kind of season for the Bengals, one in which they just can’t put it all together. And Sunday’s game, a blowout while dominating the clock, was a loss unlike any other.
Big Shield combines gambling, pro football, and the mob into a cautionary tale regarding inside information, and the dangers that come from selling it.
Football is back and so are Mike Florio and Chris Simms! Watch PFT Live for the latest news coming out of the regular season, postseason and offseason every Monday to Friday at 7 a.m. ET on Peacock and the NBC Sports NOW channel.
