The New England Patriots might have had this past weekend off, since they already won their Week 11 game against the Jets on Thursday night, but that doesn't mean that what happened on Sunday doesn't impact their upcoming matchups. In fact, one big moment is expected to directly impact their upcoming clash with the Bengals, which could completely alter their fate.
The perennial AFC North contender has been a game circled on the Patriots' calendar all season long, but especially since they continued their hot streak. Since so many doubters believed they'd had an easy schedule, a game against a team like the Bengals was thought to be a true litmus test for them, even with QB Joe Burrow sidelined with an injury.
Although he is set to return in the next few weeks, it looks like the Patriots will still face veteran QB Joe Flacco, but he might be without one of the team's biggest offensive weapons, as WR Ja'Marr Chase has found himself in a controversy stemming from their Week 11 game vs. the Steelers.
A test moment with CB Jalen Ramsey led to the Steelers' ejection, only for the video to show that Chase appeared to spit on him, prompting the altercation. That might result in his suspension for next week's game.
Ja'Marr Chase's availability for the Bengals in Week 12 could help the Patriots continue their win streak
Because Ramsey was ejected from Sunday's game without the officials knowing that Chase had spit on the cornerback, the video from the moment went viral, and fans are demanding an answer from the NFL.
Because Eagles' DT Jalen Carter was suspended for one game earlier this season for committing the same offense, it's expected that Chase will also be suspended for the Bengals' Week 12 matchup against the Patriots, which would be a massive win for their defense.
A decision from the NFL is expected today. https://t.co/6h7Iq02XDJ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 17, 2025
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According to NFL insiders, the league is expected to announce a decision on Monday at some point. Based on how they handled the situation previously, there's no reason to believe that Chase will get off scott free.
His absence will be a massive loss for Flacco and a big win for the Patriots' defense, as Chase is one of the best wide receivers in the NFL today.