Ravens Have More Than Momentum on Their Side
As the Baltimore Ravens prepare for the most crucial part of their season, they find themselves not only riding a wave of momentum but also armed with more than just good fortune. Entering the 2024 NFL playoffs, the Ravens have been firing on all cylinders, thanks to a combination of factors that make them a formidable contender. From their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson, to their opportunistic defense, Baltimore’s recipe for success includes both talent and timing, making them a team that rivals should fear.
While momentum is often cited as an intangible force that can carry teams to unexpected heights in the postseason, the Ravens’ current success is rooted in tangible assets. It’s the sum of Jackson’s evolving skills, the deep defense, the return of key players, and the leadership of head coach John Harbaugh that gives Baltimore more than just a hot streak to rely on.
In this piece, we will examine the factors that make the Ravens so dangerous and explain why they have more than momentum on their side as they set their sights on a potential AFC Championship berth.
Lamar Jackson: More Than Just a Dual-Threat Quarterback
At the heart of the Ravens’ rise is Lamar Jackson, one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL. Jackson has always been known for his electrifying ability to make plays with his legs, but in 2024, he has evolved into a more complete quarterback. His passing game has improved dramatically over the past few seasons, and he’s shown an increased ability to lead his team with poise and confidence in clutch moments.
Jackson’s ability to make throws from any platform, combined with his quick decision-making and improving accuracy, has allowed the Ravens to unlock a more versatile offense. His ability to challenge defenses with his legs opens up opportunities for the Ravens’ running backs and his play-action passing game. Mark Andrews, his go-to tight end, has been a huge beneficiary of Jackson’s passing improvements, and the pair has formed one of the most dangerous connections in the NFL.
But it’s not just Jackson’s arm that gives the Ravens an edge—it’s his ability to put opposing defenses in a no-win situation. The Ravens have been able to use Jackson’s speed, vision, and agility as a significant weapon, creating mismatches on the ground that can break open games. When Jackson is running well, he takes the pressure off of the Ravens’ offense as a whole, allowing their ground game to thrive.
As the Ravens’ star player, Jackson is the primary reason the team’s offense has reached new heights. But what sets him apart from other quarterbacks is his ability to elevate the play of his teammates, and that’s what makes him so special when it matters most: in the postseason.
A Defense That Capitalizes on Every Opportunity
While the offensive side of the ball has often been the focal point of the Ravens’ identity in recent years, their defense has quietly emerged as a major strength in 2024. The Baltimore Ravens defense is a disciplined and aggressive unit, capable of shutting down both the run and the pass. The addition of Roquan Smith has solidified their linebacker corps, and his ability to read the offense and attack gaps has been a game-changer.
The Ravens’ defense also features standout players like Marlon Humphrey, one of the top cornerbacks in the league, who consistently locks down opposing receivers. Patrick Queen, alongside Smith, creates one of the most dynamic linebacker duos in the NFL. Meanwhile, the defensive line, anchored by players like Calais Campbell, continues to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Ravens can win in a variety of ways on defense, whether it’s through turnovers, sacks, or creating chaos in the backfield.
Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald has done an excellent job of maximizing the talent at his disposal, using creative schemes to put his players in positions to succeed. The result has been a defense that can shut down the most potent offenses in the league. Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence learned that the hard way in Week 18, as the Ravens defense overwhelmed him in a dominant performance that showcased their playoff potential.
The defense’s ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and create turnovers has given the offense extra opportunities to score. In the playoffs, where field position and possession can be the difference between advancing and going home, this Ravens defense could prove to be just as important as their offense.
Coaching and Leadership: John Harbaugh’s Calm Authority
One of the key factors that have always set the Ravens apart is the leadership of John Harbaugh, who has been at the helm since 2008. Harbaugh has earned a reputation as one of the most respected coaches in the NFL due to his ability to keep his team focused and grounded, no matter the circumstances.
This season, Harbaugh’s leadership has been especially evident, as he has helped the Ravens overcome a series of injuries to key players, including Lamar Jackson himself. Despite the adversity, Harbaugh’s ability to motivate his players and adjust his game plans to suit their strengths has kept the team competitive throughout the year. His calm demeanor during high-pressure situations allows the players to stay composed when facing the biggest moments, such as the ones they’ll experience in the playoffs.
Harbaugh is a master at getting his team to peak at the right time. His attention to detail in preparing his team for the challenges of playoff football ensures that the Ravens are always ready for whatever comes their way. As we’ve seen time and time again, teams with strong leadership are often the ones that thrive in the postseason, and Harbaugh has built the type of culture in Baltimore that leads to success when it matters most.
Additionally, Harbaugh’s familiarity with the pressures of the playoffs—he won a Super Bowl in 2012—gives the Ravens a huge advantage in terms of experience. The ability to stay calm and collected in critical moments is something Harbaugh’s Ravens will lean on in the postseason, especially when the pressure starts to mount.
Key Playmakers Around Jackson and Defense
While Lamar Jackson and the defense have been the primary drivers of the Ravens’ success, they aren’t alone in making the team dangerous. Baltimore has a wealth of talented players who have stepped up throughout the season and are poised to play crucial roles in the playoffs.
On offense, players like J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards provide a solid running attack, allowing the Ravens to control the clock and wear down opposing defenses. Dobbins, in particular, has had a strong return season after recovering from injury and has been a force in the backfield. The Ravens’ offensive line, anchored by players like Ronnie Stanley, has been able to open up running lanes for the backs while also providing adequate protection for Jackson in the pocket.
As mentioned earlier, Mark Andrews is Jackson’s go-to target in the passing game, and he has been one of the top tight ends in the league. Andrews is a reliable and physical weapon who excels in critical situations. Additionally, the emergence of wide receiver Rashod Bateman has provided Jackson with another playmaker who can stretch the field. The Ravens have a balanced offensive attack that can challenge defenses in multiple ways.
On defense, Marlon Humphrey is one of the top cornerbacks in the league, capable of locking down the opposition’s best receiver. Marcus Williams adds a veteran presence in the secondary, and his ability to read the quarterback’s eyes allows him to be a playmaker on the back end. The Ravens’ defensive front, led by Calais Campbell and Tyus Bowser, has the ability to generate pressure and sack the quarterback, forcing turnovers and getting off the field on third downs.
With such a well-rounded roster, the Ravens can compete against any team, especially when they’re clicking on all cylinders. The combination of offensive versatility, defensive playmaking, and coaching experience is more than enough to give Baltimore a legitimate shot at a Super Bowl run.
The Ravens’ Playoff Mentality: Built for the Big Stage
As Baltimore enters the postseason, they have a mentality that’s been forged through years of hard-fought battles. The Ravens have long been known as one of the most physical, disciplined teams in the league, and that identity is crucial when facing the high-stakes intensity of playoff football.
With Lamar Jackson leading the charge and the defense playing at an elite level, the Ravens have the ability to dictate the tempo of games. Whether it’s running the football, controlling the clock, or suffocating the opposition’s offense, the Ravens have the mentality and talent needed to succeed in the playoffs. Their playoff pedigree, combined with the improvements they’ve made this season, positions them as a dangerous team.
Furthermore, the Ravens have the type of mental toughness that’s needed to win in the postseason. The resilience they’ve shown throughout the season, particularly when facing adversity, suggests that they won’t back down when the pressure is at its highest. This mindset, along with their talent, makes them a team that can be a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
The Road Ahead: Super Bowl Dreams in Baltimore
The Ravens’ road to the 2024 Super Bowl is a challenging one, but they are more than equipped to handle it. With Lamar Jackson playing at a high level, a defense that can take over games, and a coaching staff that has been through the postseason grind, Baltimore has everything they need to make a deep playoff run.
With a team full of playmakers, both on offense and defense, the Ravens are one of the most well-rounded teams in the NFL. The momentum they’ve built, combined with the strength of their roster and leadership, gives them a real shot at competing for an AFC Championship and a Super Bowl title. Whether it’s through
