Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely has been a key weapon in the team’s offense this season, and his physicality and versatility could pose major problems for the Buffalo Bills in Sunday’s AFC Divisional Round. With Mark Andrews lining up alongside him, Likely becomes even harder to defend, adding another dimension to the Ravens’ attack.
Likely’s combination of size (6-foot-4, 247 pounds), speed (4.7-second 40-yard dash), and power makes him a nightmare matchup for defenders. His stiff arm against Steelers defensive back Cameron Sutton last week was a perfect example of his ability to dominate in open space.
“This Isaiah Likely stiff arm was NASTY,” tweeted Ravens Nation LIVE after the Wild Card game.
The Bills’ defense ranked 20th in passing yards allowed per game this season, and their safeties, Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin, could struggle in man coverage against Likely. Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich will need a creative game plan, potentially including double coverage, to contain the Ravens’ tight end duo.
However, focusing too much on Likely could open the door for other weapons, such as Mark Andrews or Baltimore’s rushing attack led by Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson.
Likely’s impact goes beyond his receiving abilities. His physicality as a blocker makes him an integral part of the Ravens’ top-ranked rushing attack. Whether opening lanes for Henry or setting the edge for Jackson’s designed runs, Likely’s presence elevates Baltimore’s offensive versatility.
“Marry Likely’s physicality as a receiver with his ability to be a run-blocker for Derrick Henry, and it’s safe to say that the Bills may be in for a very long night,” Dundalk wrote.
With Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews leading the charge, the Ravens’ offense is prepared to take advantage of Buffalo’s defensive vulnerabilities. If the Bills can’t find a way to contain Likely, Baltimore could exploit mismatches all night long.
What do you think, Ravens fans? Will Isaiah Likely dominate against the Bills, or will Buffalo find a way to neutralize him? Let us know in the comments!