Ravens Prepared for Joe Burrow News

In a presser, Harbaugh went deeper on the challenge. “We’ve played [Joe Burrow] enough to understand how he plays and how he fits into the offense,” he said. “The system was built for Joe Burrow.”

That, more than anything, is why Baltimore isn’t treating this like a typical return-from-injury game. Burrow doesn’t need perfect rhythm to be dangerous. He just needs the ball, and receivers who know how to get open.

Harbaugh also acknowledged the emotional jolt Burrow’s return brings, but made it clear the Ravens aren’t backing down.

“They’re going to have a lot of energy since he’s coming back, but I think we might be a little bit more excited than they are,” he said.

What This Means for Baltimore Moving Forward

Baltimore isn’t counting on mobility issues, timing issues, or rust to bail them out.

“We know he can rush, and we know he’s a great passer,” Harbaugh said. “If he’s scrambling, be sound. If he’s throwing, pressure and cover well.”

Simple message, tough assignment. Watching Burrow from the other sideline has never been easy either.

“I get so tired of seeing him throw to Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase,” Harbaugh admitted. “Those guys do a great job putting points on the board.”

And even with Burrow not having played since September, Harbaugh brushed off the idea that it will matter.

"‘Professional Joe’ has been one of the best for a while. When he’s back there, he’s lethal," he said.

It does feel poetic though — Burrow’s return landing on Thanksgiving Day, walking straight into an AFC North rivalry that refuses to take a year off. The stakes are high, the history is fresh, and both teams know exactly what they’re stepping into.

Baltimore expects Joe Burrow. Cincinnati expects Jamar Chase. And the AFC North expects a fight.