Joe Flacco is on the cusp of a remarkable NFL milestone, but it's a path paved with challenges and a history that begs for rewriting. Here's the deal:
Flacco, the veteran quarterback, has the opportunity to etch his name in the record books as only the second quarterback ever to defeat the same team twice in the same season while playing for two different franchises. It's a feat that would be a testament to his resilience and adaptability.
But here's the twist in Flacco's story: In Cleveland, he experienced a rollercoaster of accolades and criticisms. From being crowned the Comeback Player of the Year in 2023, he swiftly descended to being the Don't Come Back Player of the Year in 2024, only to find himself in a peculiar situation in 2025, where he was welcomed back temporarily before being politely asked to leave.
Now, in his new role with the Cincinnati Bengals, Flacco is poised to face the Green Bay Packers in Week 6, a team he defeated just three weeks ago as a member of the Cleveland Browns. This unique scenario has only occurred once before in NFL history, making Flacco's potential achievement all the more intriguing.
However, the odds are stacked against him. The Packers, well-rested after a two-week break, are favored by a substantial 14 points. Additionally, the Bengals have been on the receiving end of three consecutive lopsided losses, which doesn't bode well for Flacco's chances.
The only other quarterback to achieve this rare feat was Jack Kemp in 1962, when he led both the Chargers and the Bills to victories over the New York Titans (now the Jets). This makes Flacco's endeavor even more captivating, as he aims to join an exclusive club of one.
Regardless of the outcome, Flacco will join an elite group of quarterbacks who have faced the same team twice while representing two different teams. This list includes Kemp, Jimmy Clausen (2015), Kyle Orton (2011), Kerry Collins (1998), Chris Chandler (1991), and Norm Snead (1974).
And there's more! If Flacco remains the starter for the Bengals into December, he could face the Baltimore Ravens, his former team, not once but twice more this season, adding another layer of complexity to his journey.
A controversial question arises: Is Flacco's potential achievement a testament to his skill and adaptability, or is it a mere quirk of scheduling and circumstance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
