Bengals: 5 bold predictions for Joe Burrow as he preps for his debut
By Alex Austin
Joe Burrow will throw for over 30 touchdowns
Speaking of an outstanding wide receiver class, the amount of star power Cincinnati’s offense possesses will give Burrow plenty of options to throw to. The recently elected captain will end 2020 with more than 30 touchdowns thrown on the season.
A healthy A.J. Green returning to the lineup could account for roughly 7-10 touchdowns since he has averaged right around 8 touchdowns per season over the course of his career, and maxed out with 11 during his best performances.
Throw in another 6-8 from Tyler Boyd now that he has a quarterback who will routinely challenge the defense down the middle of the field and Burrow is already at the halfway point to 30.
A full season of John Ross could see him reel in 4-6 touchdowns and 3-5 from rookie Tee Higgins brings Burrow’s total up to the 20-29 range. Assuming other players get involved in the passing game like Joe Mixon, Auden Tate, and C.J. Uzomah, and Burrow should be able to exceed the 30 touchdown number.
As a reference, Baker Mayfield was the closest to reach that mark as a rookie when he threw for 27, but Burrow will be working with a much better surrounding cast.