The Ravens and Bills are set for a high-stakes Divisional Round rematch, but their Week 4 meeting—a 35-10 Ravens blowout—is practically irrelevant now. Both teams have grown, adapted, and transformed into legitimate Super Bowl contenders since that early-season clash.
Here’s how the Ravens and Bills have evolved since their last matchup.
The Buffalo Bills: A Home Fortress and New Identity
The Bills have turned Highmark Stadium into a fortress this season, boasting a perfect 9-0 record (including playoffs) with an average margin of victory of 17.4 points. Playing at home gives Buffalo a significant edge, but that’s not the only way they’ve changed.
- Josh Allen’s Growth:
Allen continues to refine his game, cutting down on turnovers and becoming more precise in the passing game. His ability to extend plays and his connection with receivers like Stefon Diggs and Keon Coleman make him a constant threat.
- Defensive Adjustments:
Buffalo’s defense has faced injuries but found ways to stay competitive. The emergence of young players like Kaiir Elam and adjustments in scheme have made them tougher, particularly in key moments like third downs.
- Complementary Football:
Head Coach Sean McDermott has emphasized complementary play across all three phases. Special teams have made critical contributions, and the Bills’ physicality has become a defining trait.
The Baltimore Ravens: Peaking at the Right Time
The Ravens were still finding their rhythm in Week 4, but they’ve since become one of the most complete teams in the NFL. Baltimore is riding a five-game win streak, powered by improvements on both sides of the ball.
- Lamar Jackson’s MVP-Level Play:
Jackson has reached new heights this season, posting career-best numbers in passing yards (4,172), touchdowns (41), and passer rating, while continuing to threaten defenses with his legs. His mastery of the Ravens’ offense has been key to their late-season surge.
- The Derrick Henry Effect:
Adding Henry in the offseason has been transformative. The former rushing champion has not only piled up over 1,900 yards on the ground but has also alleviated pressure on Jackson, opening up the passing game.
- Defensive Renaissance:
First-year defensive coordinator Zach Orr has overseen a stunning turnaround. Over the past eight games, Baltimore’s defense has allowed just 264 yards per game, a dramatic improvement from their early-season struggles.
Key Differences Since Week 4
Here’s how both teams have evolved in specific areas:
- Home Advantage:
The Bills’ perfect home record makes this a very different challenge for Baltimore, which hosted the Week 4 matchup.
- Injuries and Depth:
Both teams have faced injuries but adapted well. The Bills lost key defensive players like Matt Milano but have found reinforcements. The Ravens dealt with offensive line and secondary injuries early but are now relatively healthy.
- Momentum:
Baltimore is playing its best football at the right time, having won five straight and dominated the Steelers in the Wild Card round. The Bills, meanwhile, have been consistent all season, especially at home.
What to Expect Sunday
Both teams are dramatically different from their Week 4 selves. The Ravens’ balanced offense and resurgent defense make them a well-rounded contender, while the Bills’ home-field advantage and complementary style make them formidable opponents.
The stakes couldn’t be higher, and with Super Bowl aspirations on the line, this rematch has all the makings of a classic.
What do you think, Ravens fans? How do you see this game playing out? Let us know in the comments!
