The Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans would kick off the AFC Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs. The Ravens (13-4) came into this game as the #1 seed and well rested after a first round bye. Houston (10-7) came into today’s contest riding their win over the Cleveland Browns in the Wild Card round.
The game was a defensive one at the start. While the Texans first drive ended in a punt, Baltimore would use 9 plays to score a field goal. The next few series would result in punts from both teams before Houston would answer with a field goal. This made the score tied 3-3 at the end of the first half.
Ravens QB Lamar Jackson would use both his feet and his arm to hurt the Texans. After a 15 yard run for a first down, Jackson found Nelson Agholor for his first touchdown pass. Baltimore would give the ball back after a three-and-out on offense. Texans PR Steven Sims returned the kick 67 yards to tie the game 10-10 at halftime.
Stroud Struggles, Jackson Shines
The Ravens received the kickoff to start the second half. Jackson would connect with three different receivers to move Baltimore into the red zone. Lamar would again use his feet to break for a 15 yard touchdown run, making the score 17-10. C.J. Stroud could not produce anything on offense, forcing them to punt again.
The Texans committed several penalties that would cost them. After a punt late in the third quarter, Baltimore would take advantage. Jackson would drive the Ravens back into the red zone to start the fourth quarter. After finding WR Isaiah Likey for a 15 yard touchdown pass, the score was now 24-10.
Stroud failed to produce again as Houston would punt the ball back to the Ravens. Eleven plays later, Jackson would score his second rushing touchdown of the game. With the score now 31-10 and Jackson having four touchdowns total, the Texans simply were outplayed. Their last drive on offense would end on a turnover as Stroud failed to connect on his last two pass attempts.
What Happens Next?
With this resounding win, the Baltimore Ravens will move on to the AFC Championship Game. This is the first time the Ravens have been this far in the playoffs since 2012. Lamar Jackson further stakes his claim as this season’s MVP behind this spectacular performance. The Texans cinderella season comes to an end with the loss.
Baltimore will await the winner of the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills game tomorrow. What do you think of the Ravens’ victory today? Let us know down in the comments below!
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