Tee Higgins' ongoing health issues have kept him off the field for multiple games this season, and his absence has been particularly felt in the Bengals' passing game. Higgins had a strong performance against the Ravens earlier in the season, but without him, the focus shifts to Ja'Marr Chase, who will likely face increased attention from the Ravens' defense. Higgins' absence not only affects the dynamics of the Bengals' receiver corps but also puts additional pressure on other players to step up, including Andrei Iosivas and Trenton Irwin, who will need to fill the void.

The loss of Orlando Brown Jr. is another blow to the Bengals' offensive capabilities. Brown has been a stalwart on the offensive line, and his ability to protect quarterback Joe Burrow has been crucial. With Brown out, Cody Ford is expected to step into the left tackle spot, a critical role especially facing a Ravens' defense known for its aggressive pass rush. The shift might affect the Bengals' offensive strategy, potentially leading to quicker passes and a heavier reliance on the running game to counteract the Ravens' defensive strengths.

With the AFC North still up for grabs, every game is critical for the Bengals, who are currently struggling to secure a playoff spot. The absence of key players like Higgins and Brown complicates their path forward. The team will need to rely heavily on their depth and the strategic acumen of their coaching staff to navigate this challenging period. Players like Mike Gesicki, who had a standout game last week, will be crucial in keeping the Bengals competitive in Higgins' absence, particularly in high-stakes games like the one against the Ravens.