Joe Burrow’s clutch factor since LSU days has Bengals confident for playoffs

The Cincinnati Bengals have the utmost trust in quarterback Joe Burrow.

That much should be obvious, but it’s fun to hear those around the team talk about that topic as the team preps for its wild card playoff showdown against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Take Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, for example. He told reporters this week there’s indeed extra confidence in Burrow — even during the playoffs — because of Burrow’s performance in other high-pressure situations.

Here’s what he said, per Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic: “I think so. He’s been in this similar moment relatively versus this same talent for what he was with. That is what we are counting on.”

It might seem like a tame quote — but not when stepping back and really looking at what Burrow has been able to accomplish when things matter the most:

Joe Burrow has played 6 “have to have it games” in his career.

2019 LSU
Bama
Georgia (SEC title)
Oklahoma (semi)
Clemson (natty)

2021 BENGALS
Ravens (Week 16)
Chiefs (Week 17)

In those games:

6-0 W-L
2,669 Pass Yds (444/game)
27 TD
0 Int @PaulHembo

— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) January 12, 2022

This obviously doesn’t guarantee anything for Burrow or the Bengals in the playoffs. But there are hints of a clutch gene from the sophomore passer. And it’s understandable if the team and fans alike trust that Burrow won’t shrink in big moments.

This, plus things like Derek Carr’s struggles in cold weather and other factors, explain why most of the experts feel like the Bengals will get a win over the weekend: