The Baltimore Ravens put on a dominant performance in the AFC divisional round matchup against the Houston Texans, securing a 34-10 victory and advancing to the AFC Championship Game. Led by quarterback Lamar Jackson and their strong running game, the Ravens pulled away from the Texans in the second half.
Ravens’ Rushing Attack Shines
The Ravens relied heavily on their rushing attack, accumulating a total of 229 rushing yards, with 134 of those coming in the second half. Lamar Jackson was a key contributor, accounting for 100 rushing yards and scoring two touchdowns with his feet. In addition to his rushing prowess, Jackson also threw for 152 passing yards and two touchdowns.
Second-Half Adjustments Seal the Win
At halftime, the Ravens and Texans were tied at 10-10. However, the Ravens made crucial adjustments during the break that proved to be game-changers. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken implemented a more aggressive passing strategy on early downs, allowing Jackson to get the ball out quickly and find success in the quick game. The offensive line also stepped up their protection, giving Jackson more time to make plays.
The Ravens capitalized on these adjustments, scoring three touchdowns on their first three drives of the second half. They executed six-, 12-, and 11-play drives, showcasing their poise and ability to make necessary adjustments to overcome challenges.
Texans Struggle to Find Offensive Rhythm
On the other side of the field, the Texans struggled to establish a consistent rushing attack and were limited to just 38 yards on the ground. Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, who had shown promise in the wild-card round, was unable to find the same success against the Ravens’ defense. Stroud finished the game with 175 passing yards but failed to lead his team to an offensive touchdown.
Missed Opportunities Haunt Texans
The Texans had a brief moment of hope late in the second quarter when Steven Sims returned a punt for a touchdown, tying the game. However, missed opportunities plagued their chances of taking control. A missed 47-yard field goal and multiple penalties, including four false starts, hindered their momentum. The Ravens’ offense, which struggled against the Texans’ blitz early on, found their rhythm in the second half and left the Texans with no answers.
Looking Ahead to the AFC Championship Game
With their victory over the Texans, the Ravens secured a spot in the AFC Championship Game. They will face the winner of the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills on January 28th. The Ravens will look to build on their strong performance and continue their quest for a Super Bowl title.
In Conclusion
The Baltimore Ravens showcased their dominance in the AFC divisional round matchup against the Houston Texans. Led by Lamar Jackson and their potent rushing attack, the Ravens pulled away in the second half to secure a convincing victory. Their ability to make second-half adjustments and overcome challenges proved crucial in sealing the win. As they prepare for the AFC Championship Game, the Ravens will look to carry this momentum forward and continue their pursuit of a Super Bowl championship.
