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The Athletic Football Show on Joe Burrow

Podcast2026 AFC North preview
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Joe is so comfortable with where his outlets are because they're so used to playing in a very specific way... When you're doing the honor center play action stuff, like the pockets look different. Where your escape valves are, are different.
Mentioned at 40:30 – 43:09

STACKED’s take

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Burrow faces a learning curve with the Bengals' new under-center offensive scheme

The Bengals are shifting toward a more central under-center offensive identity, moving away from their previous heavy shotgun usage. This transition creates a 'murkier' environment for Burrow, as the pocket structure, escape valves, and checkdown timing are different from what he has operated with throughout his career. Success in this new scheme requires Burrow to trust his receivers more in tight windows, similar to the styles of Matthew Stafford or Ryan Tannehill.

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