Joe Flacco's Bengals debut carries shot at elusive record

Joe Flacco's trade to the Cincinnati Bengals was unexpected. For him, it represents a fresh start, and when he faces the Green Bay Packers in a late-afternoon game on Sunday, the veteran has a rare chance to make NFL history.

ESPN's Adam Schefter tweeted:

"No quarterback in the Super Bowl era ever has started and won against the same opponent while playing for different teams in the same season. Joe Flacco has a chance to become the first today. He started for the Browns and beat the Packers in Week 3, and now faces Green Bay in his first start for the Bengals today."

Flacco began the 2025 season with the Cleveland Browns, where he started in Week 3 and led the team to a victory over Green Bay. Now, after joining Cincinnati, he faces the Packers again in his first start with the Bengals. That sets the stage for a unique record.

Joe Flacco's arrival sparks fresh hope for Bengals, Ja'Marr Chase

With a 2-3 record and Joe Burrow sidelined, the Bengals desperately need a leader to turn their season around. Fortunately for Joe Flacco, with top offensive weapons like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, finding reliable targets won't be a challenge.

Chase is eager to catch passes from Flacco and recently offered high praise for the veteran quarterback.

"Everyone knows who he is," Chase said. "You know, one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play. But it's good getting him out there. We got some good reps in today. He's getting a good feel of the offense. He calls plays a little fast. So that was something new just hearing. But other than that, it was pretty smooth."

Having already played against the Packers, Flacco's familiarity with their defense could prove beneficial for Chase.

More Bengals news:

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• What channel is Packers vs. Bengals on today?
• NFC powerhouse expected to make trade offer for Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson
• Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins called 'best in the world' by new Bengals QB Joe Flacco