Tanner Hudson’s Role in Bengals’ Thursday Night Football Matchup Against Ravens

Tanner Hudson, the tight end for the Cincinnati Bengals, is set to play a significant role in the team’s Thursday Night Football matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on November 7, 2024. With Tee Higgins sidelined, Hudson has seen increased involvement in the Bengals’ offense. In the three games this season where Higgins has been absent, Hudson has recorded 2 receptions in each of those games and has had at least 14 receiving yards in two of them.

The Bengals have recently elevated tight end Cam Grandy from the practice squad to provide additional depth, with Grandy serving as the fourth tight end behind Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample, and Tanner Hudson. This move is particularly relevant given that Erick All Jr. is on injured reserve with a torn ACL suffered in Week 9.

From a betting perspective, Hudson’s performance is being closely watched. Betting expert Nick Galaida suggests that Hudson could go over 1.5 receptions, given the favorable matchup against the Ravens’ defense, which ranks 27th in DVOA against tight ends this season. The Ravens have allowed at least 61 receiving yards to a tight end in five of their last seven games.

Hudson’s involvement is expected to be part of a broader strategy that includes other tight ends like Mike Gesicki and Drew Sample, who are also anticipated to see significant action. Sample, in particular, has been a safety valve in short-yardage situations and could benefit from the Ravens’ defensive vulnerabilities.