While the Cincinnati Bengals failed to win Super Bowl LVI, fans have much optimism that they will be back in the big game soon.
After all, they have a scary receiving corps in Tee Higgins, Tyler Boyd, and Offensive Rookie of the Year Ja’Marr Chase.
Joe Mixon also dealt some damage from the backfield.
But as talented those players are, quarterback Joe Burrow orchestrated the offense to perfection.
His confidence and passing accuracy helped the Bengals go from a 4-11-1 record in 2020 to a Super Bowl appearance the following year.
Burrow’s recovery from his season-ending ACL and MCL injuries also made him 2021 NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
It’s no secret anymore that the former LSU standout is one of the league’s best young quarterbacks, and he’s here to stay.
But his impact goes beyond football after tossing the Cincinnati Reds’ Opening Day ceremonial first pitch.
QB1 tossin' dimes, per usual. @JoeyB ╳ #RedsOpeningDay pic.twitter.com/16QxdDrkf6
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) April 12, 2022
The Reds’ official Twitter account included the caption, “QB1 tossin’ dimes, per usual.”
Burrow received a thunderous ovation from the crowd as he walked to the pitcher’s mound.
While he did not throw a football, his pitch looked good.
Reds fans hope that Burrow’s presence will inspire the team to have their run to the World Series.
Last season, Cincinnati failed to make the playoffs with an 83-79 record.
Burrow Gets To Build From His Impressive Sophomore Season
The Bengals understood that protecting Burrow gave them the best chance to make a Super Bowl return.
That’s why they poured their financial resources to upgrade their offensive line.
The team was lucky that Burrow continued to perform well even if he was constantly sacked.
But if they want him to become their franchise quarterback for a long time, providing a solid pocket around him became their priority.
Bringing in La’El Collins, Ted Karras, and Alex Cappa should fortify the protection around Burrow.
NEXT: Predicting An Eventual Ja'Marr Chase Extension In Cincinnati