Ravens vs. Bills: NFL Divisional Round Predictions, Spread, and Expert Analysis

As the NFL playoffs heat up, the 2025 Divisional Round features an intriguing matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and the Buffalo Bills. Both teams have had impressive seasons and are coming off strong wildcard performances, making this game a highly anticipated contest. Fans of both teams and football enthusiasts across the country will be eagerly watching to see which squad will advance to the Conference Championship.

In this extensive breakdown, we’ll analyze the matchup between the Ravens and the Bills, including a review of both teams’ performances throughout the season, key player matchups, the betting line and spread, and predictions from experts in the field.

Baltimore Ravens: A Strong All-Around Team

The Baltimore Ravens, under head coach John Harbaugh, have been one of the most consistent teams in the NFL over the past decade. Their physical, ground-and-pound style has been complemented by a defense that can stifle opposing offenses, making them a well-rounded team heading into this postseason.

Offensive Strengths

The most notable feature of the Ravens’ offense has been the continued development of Lamar Jackson. The former MVP quarterback has continued to improve as a passer while maintaining his dual-threat ability with his legs. Jackson is known for his playmaking ability, and his quick decision-making and ability to extend plays will be key against a potent Buffalo defense.

However, the Ravens’ offense isn’t solely reliant on Jackson. The backfield, led by JK Dobbins, has been dominant throughout the year. Dobbins has been a force in the running game, keeping defenses honest and allowing Jackson more opportunities to make plays in the air. The combination of Jackson and Dobbins has given Baltimore one of the most explosive offenses in the league.

The wide receiver room in Baltimore, while not necessarily elite, has been serviceable. Rookie Zay Flowers has been a breakout star in his first season, and veterans like Rashod Bateman and Nelson Agholor have provided some stability in the passing game. Tight end Mark Andrews remains Jackson’s go-to target, providing a reliable weapon in the middle of the field.

Defensive Prowess

Defensively, the Ravens are one of the most complete units in the NFL. Led by defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, Baltimore’s defense has been a top-five unit throughout the season. The defense is known for its versatility, being able to pressure the quarterback while also covering well in the secondary.

One of the standout players for the Ravens this season has been defensive lineman Calais Campbell. The 6’8″ veteran has been a dominant force up front, and his ability to disrupt the quarterback and stuff the run will be crucial against Buffalo’s offense.

The secondary, led by cornerback Marlon Humphrey, has been able to neutralize many of the top receivers in the league, making life difficult for opposing quarterbacks. With a strong front seven and an elite secondary, the Ravens’ defense has the potential to make life difficult for Josh Allen and the Bills’ offense.

Buffalo Bills: A Championship-Caliber Contender

The Buffalo Bills have emerged as one of the top contenders in the AFC for several years now, and the 2025 season has been no different. Led by quarterback Josh Allen, the Bills have a high-powered offense that is capable of scoring quickly and efficiently.

Offensive Firepower

Josh Allen is undoubtedly the face of the franchise. The dynamic quarterback has the ability to take over a game both with his arm and his legs. Allen’s strong arm and ability to make every throw on the field make him a dangerous weapon. He also isn’t afraid to use his legs when the play breaks down, which adds another layer of complexity to the Bills’ offense.

One of the key elements to the Bills’ offense is the connection between Allen and wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Diggs has been Allen’s primary target for several seasons and is widely regarded as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL. His ability to create separation and make plays down the field will be crucial against the Ravens’ defense.

The Bills also have a solid supporting cast around Allen. Gabe Davis and Dawson Knox have provided reliable options in the passing game, while the running back committee of James Cook and Devin Singletary offers a steady ground game. Although the Bills’ rushing attack isn’t elite, it provides just enough balance to keep defenses honest and create opportunities for Allen and the passing game.

Defensive Potential

Buffalo’s defense has been a strong unit throughout the season, though it has been more inconsistent than in previous years. The Bills’ defense is led by pass rusher Von Miller, who remains a disruptive force when healthy. Miller’s ability to generate pressure on the quarterback will be critical in this matchup, as the Ravens’ offensive line will need to contain him to give Lamar Jackson enough time to make plays.

The secondary, featuring the likes of Tre’Davious White and Micah Hyde, is one of the more talented in the league. However, the Bills’ defense has occasionally struggled against mobile quarterbacks, and Lamar Jackson will test their ability to contain him both in the pocket and on the run.

The linebacker corps, led by Matt Milano and Tremaine Edmunds, has been solid, though they’ll have their hands full with the Ravens’ dual-threat quarterback and their strong running game. The Bills will need to play disciplined defense and limit big plays in order to keep the Ravens’ offense in check.

Key Matchups to Watch

Lamar Jackson vs. Josh Allen

One of the most exciting aspects of this matchup is the battle between two of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL. Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen are both capable of making jaw-dropping plays, whether with their arms or their legs. The quarterback who can minimize mistakes and take control of the game will likely lead their team to victory.

Jackson’s ability to break free from the pocket and extend plays will challenge Buffalo’s defense, while Allen’s strong arm and ability to drive the ball downfield will put pressure on the Ravens’ secondary. Whoever can establish their game early will have a huge advantage in this contest.

Ravens’ Run Game vs. Bills’ Run Defense

While Lamar Jackson’s ability as a dual-threat quarterback often steals the spotlight, the Ravens’ running game, led by JK Dobbins, is just as dangerous. The Ravens’ ability to control the clock with their running game will be vital in keeping Josh Allen off the field. Buffalo will need to get creative with their defensive schemes to slow down Baltimore’s ground attack.

Buffalo’s run defense has been inconsistent at times, and if the Ravens can establish a physical running game, it will open up opportunities for Jackson to make plays in the passing game as well. How well the Bills can contain Dobbins and the rest of the Ravens’ backs will be crucial in determining the outcome of this game.

Stefon Diggs vs. Marlon Humphrey

Stefon Diggs is one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, and he will be a key target for Josh Allen in this matchup. Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey has been a lockdown defender for years and will likely be tasked with shadowing Diggs throughout the game. The battle between these two will be one of the most important in the contest.

If Humphrey can contain Diggs and limit his impact on the game, the Ravens will have a much better chance of slowing down Buffalo’s offense. However, if Diggs is able to get open and create explosive plays, the Bills will be able to move the ball efficiently and put pressure on the Ravens’ defense.

Betting Line, Spread, and Expert Predictions

Current Line and Spread

As of the latest updates, the Buffalo Bills are favored by 3 points at home against the Baltimore Ravens. The over/under for the game is set at 51.5 total points, reflecting the expectation of a high-scoring affair between these two offensive juggernauts.

The betting line indicates that the game is expected to be close, with the Bills slightly favored due to their home-field advantage and the explosiveness of their offense. However, the Ravens’ balanced attack and elite defense make them a formidable opponent, meaning that they are certainly capable of pulling off an upset.

Expert Predictions

Experts are divided on this matchup, but many believe the Bills’ offense, led by Josh Allen, will be too much for the Ravens to handle. The ability of the Bills to score quickly and the potential for their defense to get after Lamar Jackson is a major factor in their favor.

However, many experts also point out that the Ravens have been playing some of the best all-around football in the league over the past few months. Their strong defense, coupled with the dynamic playmaking ability of Lamar Jackson, makes them a dangerous playoff team. If the Ravens can control the clock with their running game and limit the big plays from Josh Allen, they have a legitimate chance to win.

Final Prediction: While the Ravens’ defense is certainly talented, the Bills’ offensive firepower, led by Josh Allen, might prove to be too much. Expect a high-scoring affair, but Buffalo’s ability to put up points quickly and their home-field advantage will likely give them the edge in this matchup.