Joe Flacco's journey in the NFL is a testament to resilience and adaptability. In Cleveland, his story took an intriguing turn, evolving from the Comeback Player of the Year in 2023 to the enigmatic 'Don't Come Back Player of the Year' in 2024, and now, the intriguing 'Come Back For A While And Now Please Go Player of the Year' in 2025. This narrative arc is about to take an even more captivating turn.
On Sunday, Flacco will step onto the field for his debut with the Cincinnati Bengals, presenting an opportunity that has only been achieved once before. He aims to become the second quarterback in NFL history to beat the same team twice in a single year while playing for two different teams. This feat was last accomplished by Jack Kemp in 1962, who led the Chargers and the Bills to victory over the New York Titans (now the Jets).
The stage is set for Flacco's potential triumph. Three weeks ago, he led the Cleveland Browns to an upset victory over the Green Bay Packers, scoring 13-10. Fast forward to Week 6, and the Bengals will travel to Green Bay, with Flacco under center. However, the path to success won't be without challenges.
The Packers had ample time to prepare, boasting a 14-point advantage in the betting lines. Moreover, the Bengals have been on a losing streak, suffering three consecutive defeats. Despite these obstacles, Flacco's determination and skill make him a formidable competitor.
Should Flacco emerge victorious, he will join an exclusive club of quarterbacks who have faced the same team twice with different teams: Jack Kemp, Jimmy Clausen (2015), Kyle Orton (2011), Kerry Collins (1998), Chris Chandler (1991), and Norm Snead (1974). But Flacco's story doesn't end there.
With the Bengals, he has the opportunity to face the same team more than twice this season. He already started for the Browns against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 2. Furthermore, Flacco could potentially square off against the Ravens two more times this year, in Week 13 and Week 15. This scenario adds another layer of complexity to his already fascinating journey.
