AFC North

Titans Edge Ravens

Two AFC playoff-hopefuls had a battle on Sunday. Lamar Jackson and the Ravens hosted the Tennessee Titans in a game that held a personal grudge after the Titans silenced the number one-seeded Ravens in the 2019 playoffs. This game was as exciting as advertised and ultimately finished with a similar outcome as the Titans, led by Derrick Henry, were able to rally during overtime for the win.

Titans 30 – Ravens 24

The Baltimore Ravens now have their backs against the wall. In a game that was all but a must-win, the Ravens continued to struggle against winning opponents. Decimated by injuries, the Ravens got off to another slow start, putting up just three points in the first quarter. The offense was finally given some life as Tyus Bowser intercepted a Ryan Tannehill pass to set up the Ravens with excellent field position.

Shortly thereafter, Baltimore decided to feed rookie J.K. Dobbins who out-touched Mark Ingram and Gus Edwards 17-5. Dobbins looked quick, strong, and dynamic as both a runner and a receiver. It seems that they are finally making good use of that draft pick.

The defense held strong for most of the game. There seemed to be a bit of a momentum shift as Mike Vrabel called a fake punt that was successful. From that point on, the Titans were able to get into a groove. Couple that with A.J. Brown manhandling the Baltimore secondary, and the Titans were able to get to overtime despite being down at the half.

Derrick Henry was held in check for a good bit of the day. The Ravens missed Brandon Williams and Calais Campbell as the day went on. Henry iced the Ravens with a 29-yard score to finish the day. Corey Davis was a game-changer for Tennessee, logging 5 catches for 113 yards on the day.

Outlook for the Ravens

Lamar Jackson had another tough day through the air, completing just 17 of 29 pass attempts for 186 yards. On the bright side, Mark Andrews had a strong game in the absence of Nick Boyle, who’s out for the season. The Ravens’ next leading receiver was – wait – Dez Bryant. Bryant logged 4 catches for 28 yards, outpacing the likes of Willie Snead and Marquise Brown. It seems like Dez has taken a role from Miles Boykin.

If Dez Bryant can continue to improve, he might be a notable target for Jackson. Without a consistent threat in the passing game, the Ravens will struggle to beat top teams in the league. The Ravens will look to rebound against an undefeated Steelers team on Thanksgiving. Pittsburgh defeated Baltimore 28-24 during their last meeting.

 

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