[2][3][4] The rivalry began in 1996 when the Ravens were created after the Cleveland Browns, with whom the Bengals also share a rivalry, moved to Baltimore.

They were placed in the former AFC Central Division, becoming divisional rivals with the Bengals.

Both teams were placed in the AFC North during the 2002 NFL realignment.

The rivalry gained intensity in 2003 as the Bengals hired longtime Ravens defensive coordinator Marvin Lewis as head coach.

The two teams have met once in the playoffs with the Bengals winning the 2022 AFC Wild Card game.