Lamar Jackson and Mark Andrews have been the heartbeat of the Ravens’ offense for years, but in Baltimore’s 27-25 divisional-round playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, the duo had a rare off night. Their uncharacteristic mistakes loomed large in a game that was as close as it was heartbreaking.

Lamar’s Unlikely Miscues

Jackson’s 2024 regular season was nothing short of spectacular. Known for his elite playmaking and ironclad ball security, he threw just four interceptions all season—a testament to his precision and decision-making.

But in Orchard Park, Jackson was uncharacteristically off. His lone interception wasn’t just a blemish; it was an eyebrow-raiser. The miscommunication between him and his receiver was glaring, and the result was a pass so off-target it left fans scratching their heads.

As if that weren’t enough, Jackson also lost a fumble in a critical moment, further adding to the Ravens’ woes. It was a night that didn’t resemble the MVP-caliber quarterback Ravens fans have come to know.

Andrews’ Costly Errors

Mark Andrews, Jackson’s most trusted target, had a night he’d probably rather forget. Entering the game with just four drops on the season, Andrews managed two in this game alone.

The most glaring moment came in the final minutes, with the Ravens trailing by two and looking to tie the game with a two-point conversion. Jackson’s pass wasn’t perfect—it was low and away as Andrews was falling backward into the end zone—but it was catchable. Unfortunately, the normally reliable tight end couldn’t haul it in.

That drop will undoubtedly make Andrews the scapegoat for some fans, but pointing fingers isn’t the answer. Football is a team game, and while decisive moments like this are magnified, many other plays throughout the night contributed to the final outcome.

Blame Game Isn’t the Answer

Criticism of Jackson and Andrews is inevitable, but it’s important to remember what they’ve meant to this team. Without Jackson’s stellar play this season and Derrick Henry’s contributions on the ground, the Ravens likely wouldn’t have won the AFC North or secured the #3 seed in the playoffs.

Yes, the miscues were out of character. Yes, they stung. But pinning this loss entirely on two plays ignores the bigger picture. Football is full of “what ifs,” and while certain moments are amplified in hindsight, the reality is that there were many missed opportunities on both sides of the ball.

The Bottom Line

Lamar Jackson and Mark Andrews are the cornerstones of the Ravens’ offense, and one off night doesn’t change that. The sting of this loss will linger, but if the Ravens hope to return to this stage next season, they’ll need to build on what made them successful in 2024—and lean on their stars to bounce back stronger than ever.