The Baltimore Ravens’ quest for a Super Bowl berth continues this Sunday as they take on the Buffalo Bills in a highly anticipated Divisional Round clash. With two MVP frontrunners—Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen—squaring off, and two powerhouse teams vying for a spot in the AFC Championship, this game promises to be one for the ages. Here’s a closer look at the critical matchups that could tip the balance in either team’s favor.
The Ravens have thrived this season using formations with multiple tight ends and extra offensive linemen, overpowering defenses at the point of attack. The Bills, on the other hand, heavily rely on their nickel package, deploying a third cornerback—veteran Taron Johnson—more than any team in the league.
Baltimore’s ground game, featuring Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson, is built to exploit this mismatch. Even if the Bills load the box, the Ravens have proven they can run effectively against stacked fronts while also generating explosive plays through the air using play-action.
With Zay Flowers doubtful to play, Baltimore’s passing game is expected to run through its elite tight end duo of Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely. Both are matchup nightmares for opposing defenses, combining size, agility, and physicality.
The Bills’ safeties, Damar Hamlin and Taylor Rapp, have been solid but lack the dynamic playmaking ability of their predecessors, Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde, at their peaks. Expect Andrews and Likely to play pivotal roles not only as pass catchers but also as perimeter blockers in Baltimore’s dominant run game.
Brandon Stephens has been one of the most targeted cornerbacks in the NFL this season, and while he’s often in good coverage, opposing quarterbacks have found success throwing his way. Josh Allen will likely test Stephens early and often, particularly if the Bills find themselves trailing.
If Stephens can hold his own, especially in critical moments, it will go a long way toward limiting Buffalo’s passing attack. However, if Allen exploits this potential weakness, the Ravens could face a long night.
With Zay Flowers potentially limited or sidelined, Rashod Bateman becomes Baltimore’s primary weapon on the outside. Bateman’s precise route-running and ability to create separation make him a dangerous red-zone and deep-threat option for Lamar Jackson.
Buffalo cornerback Christian Benford has been stellar this season and will likely be tasked with shadowing Bateman. This matchup pits one of the league’s best route runners against one of its most consistent young defenders—a battle that could define the Ravens’ success in the passing game.
Baltimore’s run defense is the best in the league, allowing just 80.1 rushing yards per game. Pro Bowl linebacker Roquan Smith anchors a unit that has stifled opponents all season. However, the Bills may look to exploit mismatches in the passing game, particularly targeting versatile running back Ty Johnson against Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison, who has struggled in coverage.
Buffalo’s success in getting their running backs involved as receivers could play a key role in sustaining drives and keeping Baltimore’s defense on the field.
In a showdown of athletic freaks, All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton will face the daunting challenge of containing Josh Allen. Whether it’s in coverage or when Allen breaks the pocket to scramble, Hamilton’s physicality, range, and intelligence will be critical in keeping Buffalo’s MVP candidate in check.
Allen has a reputation for making big plays with his legs and squeezing passes into tight windows. Hamilton’s ability to disrupt those plays could make the difference between a win and a loss for Baltimore.
Games in January are often won and lost in the trenches. Baltimore’s offensive line, led by All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum, must pave the way for their potent rushing attack while protecting Lamar Jackson from Buffalo’s aggressive pass rush, spearheaded by Greg Rousseau and a returning Matt Milano.
On the flip side, the Ravens’ defensive front, featuring sack leaders Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh, will aim to pressure Allen into mistakes and limit Buffalo’s run game.
This game will likely come down to which team can impose its will in the key matchups outlined above. Will Baltimore’s heavy personnel overwhelm Buffalo’s nickel defense? Can the Ravens contain Josh Allen while capitalizing on mismatches in the passing game? These questions will be answered on Sunday night in what promises to be a physical, hard-fought battle.
Stay tuned for updates as we gear up for one of the most exciting games of the postseason. Which matchup do you think will be the deciding factor?