Expectations have been high for the Cincinnati Bengals ever since drafting Joe Burrow first overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, after his outstanding Heisman Trophy-winning season at LSU. However, despite Burrow’s impressive talent, the Bengals have struggled, missing the playoffs in three of his five seasons. Burrow’s injuries have hindered the team’s success, with him missing significant time in 2020 and 2023.

Burrow is now dealing with a toe injury sustained during a recent game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, which could sideline him for three months to the entire season. Head Coach Zac Taylor mentioned Burrow hasn’t been ruled out for the season, stating, “At least the next four weeks” during a press briefing.

Following Burrow’s injury, Jake Browning stepped in as quarterback, throwing two touchdown passes despite mixed performance, helping secure a victory. Browning will continue as the starter for upcoming games, including their matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

In Burrow’s absence, the SportsLine’s Inside the Lines model maintains a favorable outlook for the Bengals, predicting a higher than 50% chance of playoff qualification despite their star quarterback’s injury. Moreover, the Bengals currently lead the AFC North, with opportunities ahead against the Vikings who have quarterback issues of their own, as Carson Wentz will start in place of the injured J.J. McCarthy (ankle).

The Bengals’ playoff chances could rise to over 60% with a win against the Vikings, with losses potentially dropping them to less than 43%. The model estimates the Bengals can maintain a solid win total, with the potential for many remaining games against last year’s playoff teams, including the New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins, and Cleveland Browns.