Todd Monken hits team struggles with ‘root canal’ analogy
Second time in 17 days, Baltimore Ravens will go against the Cincinnati Bengals. Only this time, the postseason implications will be more pronounced.
The Ravens will visit the Bengals at Paycor Stadium on Sunday, renewing the rivalry in the AFC North. Baltimore is coming off back-to-back losses, including a 32-14 loss to Cincinnati in Week 13. The Bengals, meanwhile, have won just once in their last six games.
It looked like the Ravens had found their groove during their five-game winning streak, but their last two games have slowed things down again.
Baltimore offensive coordinator Todd Monken had a perfect analogy for their campaign up and down.
“I was thinking about it the other day. When things are going well, I feel like you’re at a carnival. When things are shitty, I feel like you’re at the dentist: ‘Here we go. I’m here for a root canal, let’s go.’ Part of the deal,” Monken said, as reported by VNST’s Luke Jones.
Todd Monken’s opening statement: “I was thinking about it the other day. When things are going well, it feels like you’re at a carnival, and when things are crap, it’s like you’re at the dentist. Let’s go. I’m here for a root canal — let’s go. Part of the deal.” #Ravens pic.twitter.com/mhhKzHSEPR
— Luke Jones (@BaltimoreLuke) December 11, 2025
Talk about sinking your teeth into it.
Baltimore’s offensive output could improve. The team is averaging 23.9 points and 325.2 yards per game. I can’t blame Monken for feeling like he’s getting his teeth drilled every week.
The Ravens, currently 6-7, are just half a game behind the Pittsburgh Steelers for first place in the division. They have only missed the playoffs once in the last seven years.
They will be looking to take revenge on the Bengals after their last encounter, with Joe Burrow is back for his long-awaited comeback from finger injury.
But, of course, it’s easier said than done. Ravens must show their teeth.
2025-12-12 04:25:00
