The Baltimore Ravens head into hostile territory this Sunday to face the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Divisional Round. Both teams enter the game on hot streaks, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. For the Ravens, a victory would secure back-to-back trips to the AFC Championship for the first time since 2012 and bring them one step closer to Super Bowl glory.
Here are five critical keys to ensure the Ravens emerge victorious:
The Ravens’ offensive identity is built around their ability to dominate in heavy personnel formations, and Sunday will be no different. When these teams met in Week 4, Baltimore’s punishing run game overwhelmed Buffalo, especially with the Bills missing key defenders like Matt Milano, Taron Johnson, and Terrel Bernard. While those players are expected to return, the Ravens’ top-ranked rushing attack—featuring Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson—remains a formidable challenge.
Baltimore’s heavy sets not only power the run game but also create opportunities for explosive plays through the air. Their dynamic tight-end duo, Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely, can exploit mismatches against linebackers and safeties. Whether Zay Flowers suits up or not, the Ravens are poised to move the ball efficiently by sticking to their identity: physical football.
Buffalo’s offense thrives on balance, but the Ravens’ defense is built to neutralize the run. Baltimore led the league in rushing defense during the regular season, allowing just 80.1 yards per game and 3.6 yards per carry. They showcased their dominance last week, holding the Steelers to a meager 29 rushing yards.
If the Ravens can replicate that performance and force the Bills to abandon the run, they’ll gain a significant advantage. With Buffalo relying solely on Josh Allen’s arm, Baltimore’s pass rush—led by Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh—can go to work. Limiting Allen’s effectiveness on the ground will also be crucial, as the Ravens held him to just 21 rushing yards in their first meeting.
The Ravens know that Buffalo’s raucous home crowd can be a game-changer, especially in a high-stakes playoff matchup. The best way to neutralize the Bills Mafia? Jump out to an early lead.
Whether the Ravens start with the ball or get it after a defensive stop, establishing an early rhythm and finishing drives in the end zone will be vital. Derrick Henry’s bruising runs can demoralize a defense and quiet a crowd, especially if he repeats his success from Week 4. By controlling the tempo early, the Ravens can put Buffalo on their heels and dictate the game.
Josh Allen’s ability to extend plays and thrive outside the pocket makes him one of the NFL’s most dangerous quarterbacks. The Ravens, however, have the blueprint for containing him. In their earlier matchup, Baltimore sacked Allen three times by maintaining disciplined rush lanes and preventing him from escaping the pocket.
Keeping Allen contained and limiting his opportunities for big plays will be key. Baltimore’s defensive backs must also stay plastered in coverage, particularly during scramble drills, where Allen often finds targets for chunk plays. The Ravens have excelled in this area, allowing just one extended passing play of over 30 yards in their first meeting.
The postseason is a game of inches, and mistakes can be the difference between advancing and going home. The Ravens have made significant strides in discipline, committing just eight penalties for 54 yards combined in their last three games. Their ball security has also been stellar, with no turnovers in nearly two months.
This focus on fundamentals will be critical against a Bills defense that thrives on takeaways, finishing second in the NFL with 32 turnovers forced. Protecting the ball, making smart decisions, and avoiding self-inflicted wounds will ensure the Ravens stay in control of the game.
The Ravens’ path to victory lies in playing to their strengths: a powerful run game, a suffocating defense, and disciplined execution. If they can dominate in the trenches, start fast, and limit mistakes, Baltimore will be well-positioned to punch their ticket to the AFC Championship.
Stay tuned as the Ravens look to prove their mettle in one of the most anticipated matchups of the postseason. Will Baltimore’s physicality and precision prevail, or will Buffalo defend their home turf? Let the battle begin.