For the second consecutive season, the Baltimore Ravens have emerged as the kings of the AFC North, clinching the division crown with a 35-10 victory over the depleted Cleveland Browns on Saturday. This victory not only secured their spot atop the division but also locked them into the AFC’s No. 3 seed, ensuring a home playoff game next week. The Ravens’ impressive regular season comes to a close with a 12-5 record, and while their win over Cleveland was dominant, they now await the identity of their next playoff opponent. The result of the Cincinnati Bengals’ narrow victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier on Saturday, combined with the Los Angeles Chargers’ final regular-season game against the Las Vegas Raiders, will determine who Baltimore faces in the postseason.
As it stands, if the Chargers defeat the Raiders on Sunday, the Ravens will face their AFC North rivals, the Steelers, for a third time this season. On the other hand, should the Chargers lose, Baltimore will host the Bengals in a high-stakes “Harbaugh Bowl Pt. 4,” a rivalry game pitting Ravens head coach John Harbaugh against Bengals head coach Zac Taylor in the wild-card round. Regardless of the opponent, the Ravens are firmly entrenched in the playoff picture and are set for another postseason run.
The Ravens’ Victory Over the Browns
The Ravens’ 35-10 win over the Browns was a critical one in their effort to secure the AFC North title. Baltimore started strong, with three of their first four drives beginning in Cleveland’s territory. However, the offense was sluggish in the first half, failing to capitalize fully on favorable field positions and only managing seven points before the break. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, despite being in the midst of an MVP-caliber season, had an up-and-down performance. He completed 16 of 32 passes for 217 yards and two touchdowns but also struggled with inefficiency. His connection with his receivers wasn’t as sharp as expected, which left the offense sputtering at times.
However, Jackson’s mobility remained a key factor in the Ravens’ success. The two-time MVP finished with nine carries for 63 yards, continuing to be a dual-threat quarterback capable of making plays with both his arm and his legs. Jackson has been a constant force on the ground this season, surpassing the 900-yard rushing mark for the first time since 2020. His ability to escape the pocket and extend plays has been a significant asset for the Ravens, and on Saturday, it helped to keep the Browns’ defense off-balance.
Despite some early struggles, the Ravens were able to pull away in the second half, outscoring the Browns by 28 points after halftime. The game ultimately showcased Baltimore’s depth, with contributions from both the offense and defense to seal the win. As they head into the playoffs, the Ravens will need to improve their efficiency, especially in the passing game, but their overall performance was solid enough to claim the division title.
Lamar Jackson’s MVP-Candidate Performance
The victory over Cleveland was also a capstone to Lamar Jackson’s MVP-caliber season. Jackson finished the regular season with impressive numbers: 4,025 passing yards, 41 passing touchdowns, and just four interceptions. He also contributed with 915 rushing yards, his highest total since 2020, making him a dynamic force who can beat opponents in a variety of ways. While his performance against the Browns was not perfect, he added a crucial two touchdowns through the air and was effective enough to manage the win.
Jackson’s ability to control games with his legs continues to be a significant asset. The Ravens’ offense is built around his ability to extend plays and create big opportunities with his speed and vision. Defenses struggle to contain him, and the Ravens will need that dual-threat playmaking ability in the postseason. His 63 rushing yards against the Browns, though modest, were essential in helping move the chains and sustain drives. The Ravens’ offensive scheme, which allows Jackson to read defenses and make quick decisions, has been one of the league’s most effective strategies.
Jackson’s ability to surpass 4,000 passing yards is noteworthy, as it marks a new milestone for a quarterback who is known for his ground game. However, as the Ravens move into the playoffs, their reliance on Jackson’s ability to throw the ball effectively will be even more critical. His performance in the postseason could determine how far the Ravens go in their quest for a Super Bowl title.
The Ravens’ Playoff Positioning
As the No. 3 seed in the AFC, Baltimore has earned the right to play a home game in the wild-card round. While the identity of their opponent remains uncertain, the Ravens have an opportunity to build on their strong regular-season performance. The team enters the playoffs riding a four-game win streak, with momentum on their side. They will need to carry that energy into their postseason matchup, as they face tough competition in the AFC, including teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals.
Should the Ravens face the Steelers in the wild-card round, it would be a highly anticipated third meeting between the AFC North foes. The Steelers and Ravens have a longstanding rivalry, and the Steelers will enter the matchup with some confidence despite a recent losing streak. The Ravens swept the regular-season series with Pittsburgh, but playoff games are always unpredictable, especially in this rivalry. Lamar Jackson and the Ravens will need to play their best to secure a win and avoid an upset.
If the Ravens end up facing the Bengals, it will be another fierce matchup, this time against a team that has been one of the most consistent in the league this season. The Bengals, led by quarterback Joe Burrow, are a formidable opponent, and the Ravens will need to exploit their defense to slow down Burrow and the high-flying Bengals offense.
Playoff Challenges for Baltimore
The Ravens’ playoff journey will come down to their ability to execute in critical moments. While their defense has been solid all year, with standout players like safety Marcus Williams and linebacker Roquan Smith, the team will need Jackson to elevate his game in the postseason. The pressure in the playoffs will be higher, and Jackson will need to make quicker, more accurate throws while continuing to be the dynamic player that he is.
The Ravens’ defense will also need to be at its best, particularly in stopping the run and creating turnovers. Baltimore’s defense has been one of the league’s best this season, ranking in the top 10 in points allowed per game. The defensive line, featuring the likes of Calais Campbell and Justin Madubuike, will need to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Additionally, their secondary, led by cornerbacks Marlon Humphrey and Marcus Peters, will need to contain explosive receivers and prevent big plays downfield.
Conclusion
The Ravens’ victory over the Cleveland Browns marked a crucial step in securing the AFC North title and a home playoff game, but the real challenge begins now. Lamar Jackson’s MVP-caliber season has set the stage for a potential deep playoff run, and the Ravens’ well-balanced roster will need to play at a high level to succeed in the postseason. Whether they face the Steelers or the Bengals in the wild-card round, Baltimore will have to overcome fierce competition to advance. If Jackson continues to perform at a high level and the defense holds firm, the Ravens could be well on their way to making a serious Super Bowl run.
