Bengals-Ravens matchup to watch: Jake Fisher vs. Terrell Suggs

Bengals RT Jake Fisher vs. Ravens LB Terrell Suggs

The trial by fire continues for the 23-year-old Fisher, who will be making his third official start against a 34-year-old, six-time Pro Bowler in Suggs, who will be making his 181st.

Since taking over at right tackle two weeks ago, Fisher has faced the No. 9-ranked Pittsburgh defense and No. 1 Houston and a date with No. 5 Baltimore and Suggs looming Sunday.

“You want to go against the best, or else what’s the point in going out here and doing what we do,” Fisher said. “What’s the point in putting all the hard work in if you’re not going to glorify it with being the best and showing what your talents truly are?”

The “meaningless” label has been thrown around a lot this week with the Bengals and Ravens already eliminated from playoff contention. But it’s clear the players don’t look at it that way.

Suggs has been playing with a torn left biceps since Oct. 16. In the Nov. 27 game against the Bengals, he had two sacks and two forced fumbles while working against Cedric Ogbuehi.

Even though it would be easy for Suggs to shut down his season and get ready for 2017, he said it’s not something he’s considered.

“Every time you get to line up is a privilege,” Suggs said. “You got to take advantage of these Sundays. I’m not stupid. I know I’m on the back nine of my career. So any chance I get to line up, I’m going to line up.”

The game, and his one-on-one matchup against one of the game’s best, has plenty of meaning for Fisher as well.

“Pride is a big thing,” Fisher said. “For some of us it’s our last year, and some of us are just getting started. We’re playing every game like it’s the Super Bowl. At least that’s my mentality. This is my Super Bowl this week and I’m going to finish it out and see where the coaches evaluate me as a player and try to get better.”

About the Author