As the NFL playoffs rapidly approach in 2025, teams are jockeying for position, and their power ranking placements are critical for assessing their likelihood of success. The Baltimore Ravens, historically one of the most well-rounded franchises in the NFL, are once again in the thick of playoff contention. But where do they stand as the postseason looms? To answer that question, we need to take a deep dive into their overall performance during the regular season, their current strengths and weaknesses, and how they compare to the rest of the league heading into the playoffs.
The Ravens’ 2024-2025 Regular Season Recap
Before we break down their power ranking, it’s crucial to consider how the Ravens have performed this season. The Ravens have always been a hard-nosed, defensive-minded team with a strong running game, and this season has been no different in many ways, while also showing significant growth in other areas.
Offense: A Dynamic Shift with Lamar Jackson at the Helm
Lamar Jackson, the former MVP and cornerstone of the Ravens’ offense, continues to be a dual-threat quarterback, with his arm and legs able to challenge opposing defenses in multiple ways. Under offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Jackson has seen a more diversified passing game, moving away from a run-heavy system that the Ravens were traditionally known for. This has led to improved passing statistics, particularly in terms of deep ball accuracy and overall efficiency.
Jackson’s ability to create plays with his legs remains a defining feature of his skill set. He has been one of the top rushers for the Ravens and consistently leads the offense on long, methodical drives that take time off the clock and tire out opposing defenses.
However, the Ravens’ offense hasn’t been without its struggles. The team has been prone to inconsistency at times, especially in the passing game. While Jackson’s new targets, including first-round pick Zay Flowers and veteran Odell Beckham Jr., have improved the receiving corps, the passing game still has some hiccups. Baltimore’s offensive line has been solid but not dominant, and the running back committee—featuring Gus Edwards, Justice Hill, and rookie Keaton Mitchell—has been effective but not overpowering.
Still, Baltimore ranks high in scoring and overall offensive yards, which places them among the top-tier teams in terms of overall offensive production. Their ability to control the clock with both the run and pass game keeps opposing offenses on the sideline, a key feature for playoff success.
Defense: Dominance and Depth
On defense, the Ravens continue to impress. Led by defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, the Ravens are one of the top defenses in the league in terms of both points allowed and total yards given up. The defense has been anchored by elite players like linebacker Roquan Smith, defensive end Justin Madubuike, and cornerback Marlon Humphrey.
The Ravens’ defensive unit excels at stopping the run and creating pressure on the quarterback, with a fearsome pass rush that has generated consistent sacks throughout the season. Roquan Smith is a true game-changer in the middle of the defense, and his leadership has elevated the unit as a whole. The secondary, while occasionally exposed against high-powered passing attacks, has remained formidable thanks to the presence of Humphrey and young cornerback Brandon Stephens.
One of the most important aspects of the Ravens’ defense, particularly as the playoffs approach, is their ability to create turnovers. The Ravens have been among the NFL’s leaders in interceptions, fumble recoveries, and overall turnover differential. This aggressive defense not only stops opposing offenses but also gives the offense extra opportunities to capitalize on favorable field position.
Special Teams: Consistency and Reliability
Baltimore’s special teams have also been a key factor in their playoff push. Kicker Justin Tucker is a future Hall of Famer and arguably the best kicker in NFL history, providing consistency and reliability from long distances. His ability to hit clutch kicks has been invaluable for the Ravens, especially in close games where every point matters.
Punter Jordan Stout has been solid as well, flipping the field and keeping opposing offenses pinned deep in their own territory. The return game has had its ups and downs, but overall, the Ravens’ special teams unit remains one of the more reliable in the NFL.
Ravens in the Power Rankings: Where Do They Stand?
Given their overall strong performance, the Ravens have positioned themselves as one of the league’s elite teams. As the playoffs near, most major power rankings have consistently placed the Ravens among the top 5 or 6 teams in the NFL. Their balanced attack on both sides of the ball, combined with their playoff-tested leadership and stellar special teams, puts them in a prime position for a deep postseason run.
Comparing the Ravens to Other Top Teams
Let’s now compare the Ravens to some of the other top teams in the league as the playoffs approach. This comparison will give us insight into how the Ravens stack up in the power rankings.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, are often considered the gold standard of the NFL in recent years. Mahomes continues to elevate the Chiefs’ offense to new heights, and their defense, while not as elite as the Ravens’, has become more solidified in recent years. The Chiefs’ playoff pedigree and experience make them a formidable contender.
However, the Ravens’ defense, which excels at pressuring the quarterback and forcing turnovers, could give Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offense some challenges in the postseason. While the Chiefs are often ranked slightly higher than the Ravens in most power rankings, particularly due to their offensive firepower and experience, the Ravens are certainly within striking distance of being on par with them.
San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers are widely considered one of the top teams in the NFL, thanks to their dominant defense and multi-faceted offense led by quarterback Brock Purdy. The 49ers have arguably the best defense in the league, and their offense has found a balanced attack with playmakers like Deebo Samuel, Christian McCaffrey, and George Kittle.
While the Ravens’ defense is highly respected, it faces a different challenge against the 49ers’ dynamic offensive weapons. The Ravens’ ability to defend the run will be critical against a team like the 49ers, who rely heavily on McCaffrey to move the ball. However, the Ravens’ defensive depth and ability to create turnovers could make them a serious threat to San Francisco’s title hopes. Most rankings place the 49ers ahead of the Ravens, but it’s a close competition when you consider Baltimore’s defense and Lamar Jackson’s playmaking ability.
Philadelphia Eagles
The defending NFC champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, boast one of the most well-rounded teams in the NFL. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has taken the next step in his development, and the Eagles’ offensive line is one of the best in the league. Their defense, led by a dominant pass rush and strong secondary, is a major strength.
The Eagles’ well-balanced attack is a challenge for any defense, but the Ravens’ defensive front could provide a stiff test for Hurts and his offense. The key matchup between these two teams would be the Ravens’ ability to disrupt Hurts’ rhythm with pressure and force him into mistakes. However, the Eagles’ overall depth and offensive versatility place them just above the Ravens in most rankings.
Strengths, Weaknesses, and Outlook for the Ravens
As the Ravens approach the playoffs, they possess several strengths that will make them a difficult out in the postseason:
- Elite Defense: The Ravens’ defense, particularly their ability to generate turnovers and stop the run, gives them an edge in any playoff matchup.
- Lamar Jackson’s Playmaking: Jackson remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league, and his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs gives the Ravens a high ceiling in the playoffs.
- Special Teams: With Justin Tucker’s reliable kicking and solid punting, the Ravens’ special teams could provide the difference in tight playoff games.
However, there are also some weaknesses to consider:
- Inconsistent Passing Attack: While the Ravens’ passing game has improved, it still has some growing pains, particularly in terms of consistency. Jackson will need to find a rhythm with his receivers as the competition gets stiffer.
- Injuries: Like any team, injuries could play a significant role in how far the Ravens can go. They have dealt with some injuries this season, especially in the secondary and the wide receiver corps, and any key player missing time could be a problem in the playoffs.
