Patriots Gear Up for Bengals’ QB Dilemma Ahead of Week 12

As the New England Patriots prepare for their Week 12 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, head coach Mike Vrabel has assured fans and players that the team is ready for any challenge posed by the Bengals’ quarterback situation. The Patriots are gearing up for either Joe Flacco, a former Super Bowl champion, or franchise star Joe Burrow, who may return from injury earlier than expected.

“It hasn’t changed anything,” Vrabel stated after practice. He emphasized that the Bengals’ offensive schemes remain consistent, regardless of who is under center. “Joe [Burrow] is more mobile than Joe [Flacco]. Both run the same concepts and same plays and try to get the ball in the same places. We’ll have to be ready for whatever happens.”

Burrow’s Potential Return Raises Stakes

Burrow, who has been sidelined since Week 2 with a turf toe injury, was initially expected to miss three months. However, the Bengals’ head coach Zac Taylor surprised many when Burrow participated fully in practice earlier this week, casting doubt on his previous prognosis. Currently listed as questionable, Burrow must be activated by 16:00 on November 22, 2023, to play. If he does return, the Bengals will be looking to him to lead the team back into playoff contention.

Despite not playing since Week 2, Burrow’s impressive stats from his two starts this season—including 189 passing yards and two touchdowns—demonstrate his ability to lead effectively. The Bengals have struggled in his absence, losing three consecutive games with backup Jake Browning at the helm. In response, Cincinnati traded for Flacco, who has started the last five games. The 40-year-old veteran has thrown for 1,453 yards, with 12 touchdowns and three interceptions, yet the Bengals have managed only a 1-4 record during that stretch.

Defensive Challenges for New England

The Patriots face additional challenges with the recent injury to defensive tackle Milton Williams, who has been placed on injured reserve due to a high ankle sprain. His absence could significantly impact New England’s defense, which is currently ranked eighth overall and first against the run. Meanwhile, the Patriots’ pass defense ranks closer to the middle of the league at 17th, a statistic that Burrow could exploit, especially without Williams’ presence.

New England’s secondary may have their hands full, especially if Burrow plays. Cornerback Christian Gonzalez has been linked to covering Bengals receiver Tee Higgins, but he might also be necessary against rookie Andrei Iosivas. This would require cornerback Carlton Davis to provide additional coverage on Higgins, stretching the Patriots’ defensive strategies thin. Slot cornerback Marcus Jones is likely to face either Charlie Jones or Jermaine Burton, further complicating New England’s defensive game plan.

Despite Flacco’s experience and skills, a fully healthy Burrow presents a more formidable challenge for the Patriots. Last season, Burrow led the NFL in completions (460), passing yards (4,918), and passing touchdowns (43), showcasing his elite status. Both Vrabel and defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr recognize the importance of focusing on the Bengals’ offensive scheme rather than just the individual players.

“I wouldn’t say so much of a pivot,” Kuhr remarked. “Flacco’s a great quarterback. That’s why he’s been doing it for so long. And Burrow, a great quarterback. Somewhat similar styles with how they operate. Obviously, they have some different physical features to them. As far as game planning, I don’t think much changes. They operate in the same system. Zac does a good job of keeping the continuity within the scheme.”

As the Patriots finalize their preparations, both the team and its supporters await clarity on the Bengals’ quarterback situation ahead of the critical matchup. New England’s ability to adapt and defend against either quarterback will be pivotal as they seek to secure a vital victory.