Ravens will again square off with a one-time ally in a continuing rivalry

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The Baltimore Ravens' ongoing rivalry with the Cincinnati Bengals may not be as venomous as the decades-long feud that they have had with the Pittsburgh Steelers. It's pretty close, though. These AFC North tussles are always bloodbaths and intense. As is often the case, some subplots travel beneath the surface. Wouldn't you know it? Joe Flacco's career continues. He realigns himself with the Bengals on a one-year deal, ensuring he'll again be on the opposing sideline from the Ravens for two more clashes with Baltimore this season.

You know his story well. Most of it we watched from the front row. Drafted 18th overall by the Ravens in 2008, he spent 11 seasons with Baltimore. That culminated in his Super Bowl XLVII win with the team. He was named the game's MVP.

Since being supplanted by Lamar Jackson as the starter, his career has taken them elsewhere. That includes a combined 16 starts with the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns, which includes one postseason game.

Last season, he was voted onto the Pro Bowl roster for the first time in his nearly two-decade career. In all likelihood, if Joe Burrow can remain upright all season, Flacco won't be in these pair of games for the festivities. Still, it's intriguing to see him earn another opportunity. An elder statesman now, he has transitioned from franchise quarterback to one of the better journeyman backups in the game, and that run appears to be allowing him at least one more season.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Former Ravens QB Joe Flacco re-signs with the Bengals

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