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The Ravens and quarterback Lamar Jackson played an overwhelming offensive game to overcome an array of mishaps in a 41-31 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on “Monday Night Football.” Here are five things we learned from the game: Lamar Jackson’s precision against pressure spoke to his powerful evolution It was three years ago, another prime-time game in Florida. Jackson’s Ravens were supposed to roll over the Miami Dolphins, but Miami defensive coordinator Brian Flores suspected he knew an antidote to the spectacular young quarterback. Jackson dropped back 50 times that Thursday evening, and the Dolphins lined up in Cover 0 on 31 of them, determined to discombobulate him with extra rushers firing from every angle. A frazzled Jackson took four sacks, threw an interception and averaged a paltry 5.5 yards per attempt in a shocking 22-10 loss. On Monday, the Buccaneers tried a less extreme version of the same approach. The Ravens had to know Todd Bowles, one of the blitz-happiest defensive minds in the sport, would try to disrupt them with pressure. But they did not seem prepared the first time they got the ball. On second-and-long at the Buccaneers’ 40-yard line, Tampa Bay’s best edge rusher, Yaya Diaby, cut inside rookie right tackle Roger Rosengarten (seemingly thrown off by a stunt) to drop Jackson. On the next play, safety Antoine Winfield Jr. blitzed up the middle, and three different blockers failed to pick him up. Jackson was buried again, and the Ravens punted the ball back to Tampa Bay’s scorching offense. Another Sunshine State disaster seemed afoot. But we weren’t watching the Jackson of three years ago. He and coordinator Todd Monken, who seem to be living on the same page midway through their second season together, knew precisely what to do. “No conversations really have to be had when Lamar Jackson is your quarterback,” wide receiver Rashod Bateman said. “If he stays poised, we stay poised.” Jackson picked up his tempo and almost seemed to invite the orange jerseys bearing in on him, knowing he would rapidly decode the picture in front of him and flick the ball where it belonged. He hardly missed against the blitz, averaging more than 10 yards per attempt when Bowles sent an extra rusher. Some of those were simple dumps to Justice Hill, but that was half the point. Jackson did not hold the ball and try to make miracles where he could win with simple efficiency. When he hit Bateman perfectly in stride for a 49-yard touchdown midway through the third quarter, it was apparent no throw was beyond him. Jackson is a two-time Most Valuable Player who long ago redefined our understanding of the term dual-threat quarterback. But we’ve never seen him throw the ball this consistently or command an offense this completely over a seven-game stretch. His statistics — 68.1% completions, on pace to clear 4,000 passing yards for the first time, 15 touchdown passes against two interceptions — are appropriately gaudy. As he flirted with perfection on another Florida night against another defense eager to swarm, we witnessed just how much he has grown. The backfield combination of Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry has proven confounding for opposing defenses. (Mike Ehrmann/Getty) We’ve never seen a Ravens offense like this All they needed was a crack, two Baker Mayfield interceptions in the second quarter to let them get their noses in front. With that, the Ravens were Secretariat at Belmont, running away from a very good opponent. They came into Monday night as the most efficient offense in the NFL and one of the most efficient through six games in the last half-century. Against a solid Tampa Bay defense, they were even better, piling up 508 yards at the remarkable rate of 9.4 per play. We’ve seen great offense in the Jackson era, most notably in 2019, when the Ravens led the league in scoring and became the first team in NFL history to average more than 200 yards rushing and passing per game in the same season. Fearsome as that attack was, it did not burst from the gate with the same gusto as this 2024 edition. The Ravens built their identity around impossibly stingy defenses led by larger-than-life talents such as Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Terrell Suggs. Those guys carried offenses that all too often struggled to get out of second gear. Consider the script fully flipped, because this offense has all the gears. We covered Jackson, who’s clearly playing better than he did last year in winning his second MVP trophy. But his targets are so much more varied now, with Zay Flowers as a viable No. 1 receiver, Bateman tearing the top off defenses and Hill turning dump-offs into chunk gains. Not to mention tight end Mark Andrews (three touchdowns over his last two games) is back in the thick of the offense. Ravens tight end Mark Andrews caught a pair of touchdown passes in the 41-31 win over the Buccaneers. (Chris O’Meara/AP) For more than a half against Tampa Bay, it seemed the passing game would have to do the heavy lifting. Derrick Henry hadn’t touched the ball much, and the Buccaneers were actually outrushing the sport’s top ground attack. But we’ve learned that only a fool would judge Henry’s night based on one half. Keep sending him at the edge of a defense and it will crumble. His 81- and 39-yard runs set up second-half touchdowns, the latter of those Henry’s own 13-yard catch. The Ravens have employed some great backs over the years but never one who felt so inevitable. They had 69 rushing yards at halftime Monday and ended the night with 244 to Tampa Bay’s 125. That’s the Henry effect. It’s difficult for an NFL offense to be consistently grinding and explosive. The Ravens are both. The Ravens’ defense needed a turnover to stop the bleeding; Marlon Humphrey delivered The Buccaneers wanted the ball to start the game, a reflection of their confidence in Mayfield. They quickly faced third-and-3 in their own territory, but the Ravens couldn’t get set, and Mayfield hit running back Rachaad White in stride with a short swing pass that turned into an 18-yard gain. The Ravens knew this would be Tampa Bay’s formula, knew they’d have to be fundamentally sound, and right away, they failed. Five plays later, Mayfield found Mike Evans alone in the end zone for a 25-yard score. It was the worst possible start for a pass defense that, after seven games, is indisputably the Ravens’ Achilles heel. Mayfield diced them again on Tampa Bay’s second drive. Only a hold in the red zone saved the Ravens from surrendering another touchdown. With the Buccaneers eating up ground at more than 6 yards per play, the Ravens needed a takeaway to halt the onslaught. Those have been in short supply this year for a defense that created more turnovers than any team in 2023. Humphrey had been responsible for a vital interception in Cincinnati, and he was the one who swooped in unseen to snare a Mayfield pass in the end zone, just when Tampa Bay seemed poised to score again. Marlon Humphrey’s interceptions flipped momentum for a Ravens defense that started the game poorly. (Jason Behnken/AP) Had he not stepped in at that moment, the Ravens’ offense might never have seized center stage. On Tampa Bay’s next drive, Mayfield, facing third-and-13, looked downfield for his top target, Chris Godwin. Humphrey was right there again to wrap his hands around a contested ball and pin it to his shoulder before it could hit the ground. He hurt his knee on the play, a rotten reward for stellar work. But the Ravens went from down 10-7 to up 17-10 at halftime largely because of Humphrey. This was not a game to ease worries around a defense that again surrendered far too many easy yards. Even with Evans out for the second half after he hurt his hamstring, Mayfield threw for 370 yards and led three fourth-quarter touchdown drives. The Ravens seemed on the verge of a dominant second half after they built a three-score lead, but coverage lapses and poor tackling allowed Tampa Bay to keep nibbling away. “It’s just the big pass plays,” coach John Harbaugh said. “There’s too many big pass plays.” If their defense is going to crack so often, they’ll need turnovers and timely stops on third down and in the red zone. Humphrey supplied enough Monday for the Ravens to survive. Justice Hill remains the quiet hero of a very loud offense Facing second-and-goal from the 18 after a sketchy holding call wiped out a touchdown, Jackson flicked a screen to Hill in the face of four oncoming rushers. Hill, working behind a phalanx of huge bodies, picked his way through traffic to give Baltimore its first lead, 14-10, late in the second quarter. It was the perfect play to punish Tampa Bay’s aggression, and Hill was the ideal man to finish it. ESPN announcers Joe Buck and Troy Aikman seemed puzzled that Henry wasn’t on the field as the Ravens rallied with their up-tempo, pass-first attack. But those who’ve watched the Ravens all year know Hill is their go-to back in the two-minute offense. He’s not only a dangerous yards-after-catch threat when Jackson needs to dump the ball quickly; he’s the blocker the Ravens trust to impede blitzing defensive backs and linebackers. While Derrick Henry receives the majority of headlines, Ravens running back Justice Hill has excelled in Baltimore’s backfield this fall. (Julio Aguilar/Getty) Hill excelled in both roles Monday, catching three passes for 44 yards (in addition to his touchdown, an 18-yard scamper later on third down set up a Justin Tucker field goal) and helping give Jackson the time he needed to dial in against Tampa Bay’s pressure. Henry is a phenomenon, deservedly showered with attention for the back-breaking dimension he has brought to Baltimore. Sometimes, however, it’s Hill who’s best suited to help Jackson unlock a defense. He and Henry complement one another beautifully. The Ravens really might be the NFL’s best if they cut out the absurd mistakes That game shouldn’t have gotten anywhere near tense after the Ravens went up 34-10 late in the third quarter. Their offense couldn’t be stopped. Their pass rush had Mayfield on his heels. Their superiority was established. They just can’t help flirting with nonsense. First, an overly casual backward pass from Jackson that tipped off Zay Flowers’ hand and turned into a fumble. Cornerback Zyon McCollum appeared to return it for a touchdown but was down by contact when he recovered the ball. No matter for the Buccaneers. Mayfield needed just five plays to find White for a touchdown that cut it to 34-18. The Ravens seemed to drop the hammer again with an eight-play touchdown drive to make it 41-18. But Mayfield answered back, setting up an onside kick that was Tampa Bay’s only shot to keep breathing. The Ravens were the only team to have allowed a successful onside kick all season. So it defied belief when Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin made the ball hop perfectly over several members of the “hands” team and into the arms of defensive back Tavierre Thomas. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | NFL winners and losers, Week 7: Steelers’ Russell Wilson switch looks genius Baltimore Ravens | What Joe Flacco, Ed Reed and Bill Belichick said about the Ravens on the ‘ManningCast’ Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s report card: Position-by-position grades for Ravens’ 41-31 win over Buccaneers | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Lamar Jackson dazzles to lead Ravens past Buccaneers, 41-31, for 5th straight win: ‘Ultimate competitor’ Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis from Ravens’ 41-31 win over Tampa Bay Buccaneers Seven plays later, White strolled into the end zone, no Ravens defender having bothered to cover him on a 23-yard catch-and-run. Somehow, it was 41-31, and they stared down the barrel of another onside kick. McLaughlin again made the football dance to his tune, but Flowers leaped to snare that one, and the game was effectively over. Nonetheless, this weird string of follies evoked memories of the Ravens’ maddening loss to the Las Vegas Raiders and their near-collapse against the Dallas Cowboys. Jackson looked bemused on the sideline. Fans screamed about poor coaching on social media. The joys of a largely dominant performance and a five-game winning streak were tempered by nonsense. The Ravens were the best team in the league going into last year’s playoffs. They’re not as balanced but arguably scarier in 2024, set up to go on a hellacious run with the offensively challenged Cleveland Browns and Denver Broncos next on their schedule. But they’ve got to cut back on the penalties (a problem again Monday after two clean games), the blown coverages and the special teams brain farts. They will kick themselves for years to come if they allow this loose play to keep them from the greatness that’s so plainly within reach. Have a news tip? Contact Childs Walker at daviwalker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6893 and x.com/ChildsWalker. Week 8 Ravens at Browns Sunday, 1 p.m. TV: CBS Radio: 97.9 FM, 101.5 FM, 1090 AM Line: Ravens by 10 1/2 View the full article

Here’s how the Ravens (5-2) graded out at every position after beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 41-31, in Week 7 on Monday night at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Quarterback Lamar Jackson had some difficulties with blitzes and pass protection on the Ravens’ first drive, but they adjusted well. Jackson moved well and looked as comfortable as he ever has both inside and outside the pocket. He completed 17 of 22 passes for 281 yards and five touchdowns. Jackson was close to perfect for most of the game, and his 49-yard touchdown pass to Rashod Bateman showed great touch. Jackson finished with a passer rating of 158.1 and his long ball efficiency, if it continues, will help this team in the postseason. Grade: A Running back The Ravens didn’t use running back Derrick Henry much in the first half, but he performed well in the second, including an 81-yard run in the third quarter down the left sideline. Henry also had a 39-yard run in the fourth quarter as Baltimore wore down the Bucs in the final 30 minutes. Henry finished with 169 yards on 15 carries and had a 13-yard touchdown catch in the right flat in the fourth quarter. The Ravens also got a strong game from backup Justice Hill, who had three catches for 44 yards. Hill had one strong catch-and-run on his 18-yard touchdown on a screen pass in the second quarter. Grade: A Offensive line Tampa Bay was supposed to provide a stiff challenge up front, especially with nose tackle Vita Vea back in the starting lineup, but after a poor first possession, the Ravens dominated for almost the entire game. The Ravens had great balance as far as the run-pass ratio, but this group pounded the Bucs into submission, especially in the second half. The Ravens were strong up the middle with guards Patrick Mekari and Daniel Faalele and center Tyler Linderbaum, and that was the area in which the Bucs were expected to dominate. The only criticism is the penalties that halted drives and put the team in poor field position. Grade: B+ Receivers The Bucs couldn’t stop the Ravens. Receivers were wide open on just about every route imaginable. Actually, it was ridiculous. Tight end Mark Andrews had four catches for 41 yards, including touchdown receptions of 9 and 4 yards. Bateman had the long touchdown reception but also led the Ravens with four catches for 121 yards. There were times when the Ravens were in predictable situations, but Tampa Bay still couldn’t stop them, especially Hill. Tight end Isaiah Likely had two catches for 17 yards and the Ravens averaged 16.5 yards per catch. Grade: A- Defensive line It was surprising that the Bucs ran so well against the Ravens. It wasn’t pretty stuff, either, basically just straight dives and a few counters as Tampa Bay finished with 125 yards on 30 carries. Tampa Bay got movement off the ball, but the Bucs struggled in the red zone, which is why they fell behind early. As the game wore on and the Ravens got a big lead, this group was able to put a lot of pressure on quarterback Baker Mayfield, who threw two interceptions. But there is a lot of pride among this group, and it can’t be happy with the overall production. Grade: C Linebackers Middle linebacker Roquan Smith was all over the field, and he provided big hits that seemed to rattle Tampa Bay, especially in the second half. He led the Ravens with 18 tackles, 11 solo. Weakside linebacker Trent Simpson also had a strong game, making his presence felt with eight tackles and several pressures on Mayfield. Outside linebackers Kyle Van Noy (two pressures, one sack) and Odafe Oweh (one sack) also had several pressures, but they didn’t get after Mayfield until the Buccaneers were forced to pass. The linebackers played well, and this group had to because Tampa Bay had success running the ball into the second and at times the third level of the defense. The linebackers still struggle covering running backs. Grade: B- Secondary The Ravens finished with two interceptions and both were by cornerback Marlon Humphrey, who later exited with a knee injury. The veteran made a good read on one, but the other was just a poor read by Mayfield. Rookie Nate Wiggins had a strong game and knocked down two passes, but there were several opportunities for the Ravens to finish with two or three more interceptions. Cornerback Brandon Stephens still struggles, as does safety Marcus Williams. They just don’t come up with big plays. Safety Kyle Hamilton finished with 11 tackles and at times was a force in the secondary, but other times he was exposed in coverage as was the rest of the secondary. It will be interesting to see how much improvement this group will make in the coming weeks. Grade: C Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Lamar Jackson dazzles to lead Ravens past Buccaneers, 41-31, for 5th straight win: ‘Ultimate competitor’ Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis from Ravens’ 41-31 win over Tampa Bay Buccaneers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey suffers knee injury after 2 interceptions vs. Bucs Baltimore Ravens | Ravens TE Mark Andrews ‘grateful’ to break Todd Heap’s receiving TD record Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers, October 21, 2024 | PHOTOS Special teams The Ravens had kickoff returns of 37 and 35 yards, which was a major plus as far as field position. Justin Tucker converted on field goal attempts of 28 and 52 yards, so there are no longer questions about his leg strength. Jordan Stout averaged 43.5 yards on two punts. The Ravens didn’t have any punt returns. Grade: B+ Coaching Offensively, the Ravens beat up and beat down the Bucs. Coordinator Todd Monken’s offense rolled up more than 500 total yards, and the Ravens were balanced with 30 runs versus 22 passes. Defensively, the Ravens continue to struggle. They had problems matching up with running backs out of the backfield, and that goes as far back as the season opener against Kansas City. The Ravens still struggle in coverage on the back end, and there was belief that might improve with adviser Dean Pees being around the team for the second straight week. Overall, the Ravens have won five straight and will most likely win a sixth against Cleveland on Sunday. Grade: B Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

TAMPA, Fla. — The lights inside Raymond James Stadium went dark to start the fourth quarter on Monday night as is customary for Buccaneers prime-time games. But the Ravens had turned them out long before that. In a game billed as a showdown between superstar quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Baker Mayfield and a pair of explosive offenses, only one managed to show up. Jackson completed 17 of 22 passes for 281 yards and five touchdowns and Derrick Henry ran for 169 yards and caught a touchdown pass as the Ravens overcame an early 10-0 deficit with 34 straight points en route to a 41-31 victory over the Buccaneers. With the win, Jackson improved to 23-1 against the NFC and 18-5 in prime time, the best mark of any quarterback since the NFL merger in 1970. It also keeps the Ravens (5-2) tied atop the AFC North with the Pittsburgh Steelers while putting another notch on Jackson’s belt as he seeks to become just the eighth player to win three NFL Most Valuable Player Awards, which would place him alongside Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Aaron Rodgers. More importantly for Baltimore, it won its fifth in a row with its league-best offense continuing to roll — and a much-beleaguered pass defense mostly shutting down the high-octane Buccaneers’ offense until the home team rallied late. After Tampa Bay moved down the field with ease and jumped out to a 10-0 lead behind a 25-yard touchdown pass to a wide-open Mike Evans and a 23-yard field goal by Chase McLaughlin, Baltimore bounced back with five straight scoring drives beginning in the second quarter. Among them was a 9-yard strike to Mark Andrews early in the second, the 42nd career touchdown catch for the star tight end whose score broke Todd Heap’s franchise record for receiving touchdowns. It was also just the beginning for the high-powered Ravens. On Baltimore’s next possession, Jackson dumped a short screen to running back Justice Hill, who, behind a convoy of blockers, scored from 18 yards. After a pair of Justin Tucker field goals from 28 and 52 yards, the Ravens kept rolling with Jackson lofting a 49-yard touchdown pass to receiver Rashod Bateman, who easily beat cornerback Zyon McCollum to the back corner of the end zone. Jackson then hit Andrews for another score, this time from 4 yards late in the third quarter for a 34-10 advantage. Five of the Ravens’ seven scoring drives took six plays or fewer. Meanwhile, after Mayfield torched the Ravens early, he struggled for much of the night, especially after Evans went out with a hamstring injury midway through the second quarter. He went just 1 of 4 for 15 yards with two interceptions the rest of the first half and after leading three fourth-quarter scoring drives with the game out of reach finished 31 of 45 for 370 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis from Ravens’ 41-31 win over Tampa Bay Buccaneers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey ruled out with knee injury after 2 interceptions vs. Bucs Baltimore Ravens | Tight end Mark Andrews passes Todd Heap for Ravens receiving TD record Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers, October 21, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers live updates: Postgame reaction and analysis from Baltimore’s 41-31 win Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey had both interceptions in the second quarter, including one in the end zone with the Buccaneers on the Ravens’ 3-yard line. Humphrey injured his knee, however, on the second interception and did not return. It didn’t matter. Tampa Bay scored 21 points in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough. Already up 17, Baltimore leaned on Henry to finish. Backed up to the Ravens’ 4-yard line, he broke free down the left sideline for an 81-yard run to the Buccaneers’ 11. The 30-year-old became the third player in the past 30 years with multiple 80-yard runs through seven games in a season, joining Barry Sanders (1994 and 1997) and Chris Johnson (2009). By the time the Buccaneers recovered an onside kick with 3:45 remaining, it was too little, too late. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Week 8 Ravens at Browns Sunday, 1 p.m. TV: CBS Radio: 97.9 FM, 101.5 FM, 1090 AM Line: Ravens by 8 1/2 Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey had two interceptions in the second quarter before being ruled out with a knee injury Monday night against the Buccaneers. (Chris O’Meara/AP) View the full article

Here’s what The Baltimore Sun sports staff had to say immediately after the Ravens’ 41-31 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Monday night’s Week 7 game at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Brian Wacker, reporter: The Ravens have the best offense in the NFL led by perhaps the best player int he NFL. Coach John Harbaugh said last week that Lamar Jackson is playing the best football of his career, and he’s not wrong. Jackson was in total command. Even when Baltimore fell behind 10-0, he was unbothered and shredded Tampa Bay’s secondary. Then Baltimore leaned on the legs of NFL leading rusher Derrick Henry to help salt away the victory. The final score wasn’t indicative of the Ravens’ dominance, though it was helped by the Buccaneers losing All-Pro receiver Mike Evans to injury in the second quarter. That said, the defense is still having issues, from communication and uncertainty to letting teams climb back into games. That’s a dangerous formula come playoff time and against opponents that have better defenses than the Buccaneers’, which is middle of the pack, but Baltimore should be happy to get out of Tampa with an otherwise mostly impressive victory. Childs Walker, reporter: The Ravens have never had an offense like this. You give them a crack, as Baker Mayfield did with a pair of second-quarter interceptions, and it becomes almost impossible to keep up. Lamar Jackson threw impeccably in the face of pressure. Rashod Bateman, Justice Hill and Mark Andrews all left defenders eating dust on touchdowns. Derrick Henry broke another tired defense with an 81-yard run in the third quarter. They were ruthless against a quality opponent that jumped ahead 10-0. After succumbing to Tampa Bay’s pressure on their first drive, the Ravens adjusted beautifully with an up-tempo attack designed to punish that aggression. They picked off extra rushers, giving Jackson time to dial in. The reigning NFL Most Valuable Player excelled as a high-volume passer for the third straight week (11-of-14 for 181 yards and two scores in the first half). The Ravens did not seem prepared on defense early. They knew Mayfield would throw quickly and count on his receivers to roll up yards after the catch. But they neither prevented his targets from breaking free nor tackled them immediately. Tampa Bay also made a concerted effort to challenge the league’s top run defense and found more success than any previous Ravens opponent. This was a balanced offense doing as it pleased — 6.4 yards per play in the first half — until Marlon Humphrey picked off Mayfield in the end zone midway through the second quarter. The Ravens needed big plays to cure what ailed their defense, and Humphrey delivered, making a terrific catch for a second interception on the Buccaneers’ next drive. Those two turnovers gave the Ravens the opening they needed to nudge ahead. Mike Preston, columnist: If the Ravens could pass block up front, they had a good chance of winning the game. It didn’t turn out that way on the team’s first possession as quarterback Lamar Jackson was sacked twice, but the Ravens improved and had very few problems with the Bucs’ blitzes for most of the game. The Ravens simply wore down Tampa Bay with both the passing and running games. The Ravens did a nice job of moving Jackson in the pocket in passing situations and then ran the game’s best closer, Derrick Henry, in the second half. The Bucs came into the game allowing 252.3 passing yards per game, and Jackson easily sliced up Tampa Bay’s defense. The Bucs lost receiver Mike Evans early in the game with a hamstring injury, and that cost them on offense. Unfortunately, Evans doesn’t play defense, and Tampa Bay had no way of slowing down the Ravens offensively. There are still some questions about the Ravens’ defense, but this game was over late in the third quarter as the Ravens went up 34-10. At least in the second half, the Baltimore’s defense completely shut down the Bucs’ offense, and quarterback Baker Mayfield looked a lot like the Mayfield most football fans saw in Cleveland. Sam Cohn, reporter: It was a rocky start, but each week it becomes more clear how dominant this Ravens offense is. Lamar Jackson threw five touchdown passes, including his deepest pass of the season on a 49-yard score to Rashod Bateman (58.3 yards in the air, per Next Gen Stats), Derrick Henry left a quiet first half behind him and rushed for 169 yards on 15 carries, and the once-quiet Mark Andrews scored in his second straight game. This game was expected to be a shootout, and Baltimore came prepared. With 150 yards and a touchdown on the ground, Baltimore became the first team in the Super Bowl era to eclipse both marks in each of its first seven games. The Bucs were one of the last in a brutal stretch of white-hot offenses on the Ravens’ schedule, and despite allowing 31 points, the offense did plenty for a fifth straight win. C.J. Doon, editor: This offense is truly something to behold. After a sluggish start, the Ravens looked like they could be in trouble playing on the road against a high-powered offense that could go shot-for-shot with them. Then Lamar Jackson simply took over, leading the Ravens to 34 straight points to put the game out of reach. We’ve said it ad nauseum, but this is the best version of Jackson we’ve ever seen. He’s in complete command of the offense, taking what the defense is giving him while also taking shots downfield and picking up big chunks with his legs. That 49-yard touchdown pass to Rashod Bateman, his longest of the season, is pretty much the only thing that’s been missing. His passer rating fell short of being perfect by a fraction of a point, but for all intents and purposes, this was a perfect night from Jackson. About the only thing you can nit-pick is the play of the defense, both early and late in the game. In the first quarter, Baker Mayfield led two straight long scoring drives and was on the verge of a third before throwing an inexplicable interception in the end zone right to Marlon Humphrey. Then, after holding the Bucs in check for most of the night, Tampa Bay marched 70 yards in 2:46 to make it 41-24, recovered the onside kick and scored five plays later to make it a 10-point game. It was an ugly ending to what was otherwise a dominant performance and raises some questions about a defense that has yet to find its form. Big plays are still a problem. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Lamar Jackson dazzles to lead Ravens past Buccaneers, 41-31, for 5th straight win Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey ruled out with knee injury after 2 interceptions vs. Bucs Baltimore Ravens | Tight end Mark Andrews passes Todd Heap for Ravens receiving TD record Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers, October 21, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers live updates: Postgame reaction and analysis from Baltimore’s 41-31 win Tim Schwartz, editor: In the words of Michael Scott, how the turntables. Tampa Bay jumped all over Baltimore early for a 10-0 lead, and it looked like it could be a long night for the visitors. Then Baker Mayfield threw an interception to Marlon Humphrey, then another, and that little bit of wiggle room was all the Ravens needed to turn this into a rout. Lamar Jackson is perhaps playing the best ball of his career right now. He looks to be in total control, probably because he’s in Year 2 of Todd Monken’s offense, and it’s fun to watch him grow as a passer. Most importantly, he’s getting all of his playmakers involved, which opens the door for back-breaking runs from Derrick Henry, the game’s best closer. The defensive backfield is the lone weak spot on the roster right now, especially is Humphrey’s knee injury is deemed serious. They get a reprieve Sunday with a trip to Cleveland, then again the following week against Denver and its rookie quarterback, Bo Nix. The Ravens have won five straight and it should be seven when the Bengals roll into Baltimore for another prime-time game Nov. 7. Bennett Conlin, editor: Baltimore’s offense is a thing of beauty. The Ravens entered Week 7 first in offensive DVOA and yards per game, as they’re undoubtedly one of the most dangerous offenses in the league. They delivered on the deserved hype yet again. While the Ravens’ rushing attack was one of the major stories from the first six weeks of the season, it was Lamar Jackson and the passing attack that impressed most Monday. Of course, Henry still went over 100 yards on the ground. Rashod Bateman had a breakout performance, surpassing 100 receiving yards and reaching the end zone. He’s delivering as Baltimore’s No. 2 receiver, and Mark Andrews is becoming a favorite red-zone target again. He caught two touchdown passes, giving him three in the past two games. The offense’s array of weapons makes it borderline unfair to defend. Tampa Bay’s defense stood no chance. Baltimore’s defense started slow, but a pair of Marlon Humphrey interceptions energized the unit. He left with a knee injury, but the rest of the defense stood tall after the first couple of Tampa Bay drives. Mike Evans leaving with a hamstring injury provided a reprieve for the Ravens’ inconsistent secondary, and the Ravens took advantage of one of the NFL’s best wide receivers exiting early. Baltimore is cruising, winning five in a row. With Cleveland next, the winning streak could easily grow to six Sunday. View the full article

Marlon Humphrey’s best game of the season was cut short. The Ravens defensive back intercepted Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield twice in the second quarter on Monday night. A knee injury that occurred after he collided with rookie cornerback Nate Wiggins late in the first half knocked Humphrey out of the game. Humphrey’s first interception saved a Bucs touchdown on a ball thrown directly to Humphrey’s face mask in the back of the end zone. That turnover helped set up Baltimore’s go-ahead scoring drive after an ensuing 59-yard pickup from Rashod Bateman. On the following Bucs possession, Humphrey grabbed an under-thrown pass intended for Chris Godwin near midfield for his team-best fourth interception of the season. “It’s been huge,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh told ESPN sideline reporter Laura Rutledge before the half. “That’s been our two stops. Turnovers are big.” Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers also had an early injury scare but returned to the field later in the first quarter. Flowers planted and cut then had his right ankle rolled up on. He was wincing in pain his whole way over to the sideline, where he fell to the ground and was checked on by team trainers after a 19-yard pickup. Tampa Bay, on the other hand, will be without All-Pro receiver Mike Evans the rest of the night. Evans was a limited participant in practice last week nursing a hamstring injury. He scored the game’s first touchdown then appeared to aggravate his right leg injury. Evans was ruled out for the remainder of the game – a significant loss for the Bucs. Tampa Bay safety Tykee Smith – another key cog for the NFC South leaders – was ruled out with a concussion after a tackle on Ravens running back Justice Hill. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

With his second-quarter touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night, tight end Mark Andrews became the Ravens’ all-time leader in career receiving touchdowns with 42. It took the veteran tight end seven seasons to reach that mark, passing tight end Todd Heap, who took a decade to reach 41. Andrews is also one touchdown shy of tying Ray Rice for the second most overall touchdowns in team history. Rice had 43, trailing only fellow running back Jamal Lewis’ 47. Andrews caught a 9-yard touchdown pass from Jackson for Baltimore’s first score of the night. Heading into commercial break, ESPN play-by-play announcer Joe Buck made note that Baltimore would love to have Andrews return to being a prominent piece of the offense. He had only 13 catches through the first six games, including a pair of games with no catches. Andrews didn’t score his first touchdown of the year until last week’s win over the Washington Commanders. “It felt great to get in the end zone and help impact in that way,” Andrews said last week. “Usually, it doesn’t take me six games to get in there, but yeah, that was a fun one.” His previous long drought was in 2021, when it took Andrews five weeks to score his first touchdown. This scoreless drought for Andrews stretched back to Week 8 of last year. Quarterback Lamar Jackson and fellow tight end Isaiah Likely both told Andrews he had to get one come Week 6. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Justice Hill #43 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates with Patrick Mekari #65 after running the ball for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) runs the ball past Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Jordan Whitehead (3) to score a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) A \bal fan reacts during the fourth quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (7) scores a touchdown against Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers catches a pass for a two-point conversion against Ar’Darius Washington #29 of the Baltimore Ravens during the fourth quarter at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens hands the ball to Derrick Henry #22 during the fourth quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (7) celebrates with running back Derrick Henry (22) after Henry’s passing touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey (44) intercepts a pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin (14) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken) Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) kicks a field goal during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken) Derrick Henry #22 of the Baltimore Ravens catches a pass for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Rachaad White (1) advances toward the end zone to score a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (7) celebrates scoring a touchdown against Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Mark Andrews #89 of the Baltimore Ravens catches a pass for a touchdown during the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens hands the ball to Derrick Henry #22 during the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Derrick Henry #22 of the Baltimore Ravens is tackled by K.J. Britt #52 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the third quarter at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) outruns Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Jordan Whitehead (3) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Rashod Bateman #7 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates his 49-yard touchdown catch with Lamar Jackson #8 during the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike (92) is fouled against Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken) Rashod Bateman #7 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after catching a 49-yard pass from Lamar Jackson #8 for a touchdown during the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Justice Hill #43 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after running the ball for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens is pressured by Chris Braswell #43 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Mark Andrews #89 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates his touchdown catch with Tyler Linderbaum #64 during the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens scrambles during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts after running the ball for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (7) and quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) celebrate after Bateman’s touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (7) celebrates scoring a touchdown against Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens runs the ball during the fourth quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Derrick Henry #22 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates his touchdown catch with Lamar Jackson #8 during the fourth quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey (44) celebrates after intercepting a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Baltimore Ravens running back Justice Hill (43) runs toward the end zone to score a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) is taken down by Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike (92) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken) Baltimore Ravens linebacker Tavius Robinson (95) tackles Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken) Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin (14) is stopped by Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Sean Tucker, rear, after a reception during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Justice Hill #43 of the Baltimore Ravens runs the ball for a touchdown during the second quarter \atb at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens scrambles during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Ravens fans gather at Mother’s Federal Hill Grille to watch Monday night football with the Ravens against the Bucs. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) during an NFL football game against the , Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Peter Joneleit) Ravens fan Darryl Hill, left, of Baltimore, cheers a Ravens touchdown as he and other gather at Mother’s Federal Hill Grille to watch Monday night football. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) can’t hang on tot he would-be touchdown catch as Baltimore Ravens cornerback Brandon Stephens (21) defends during an NFL football gam, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Peter Joneleit) Mark Andrews #89 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates with Lamar Jackson #8 after catching a pass for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Oct. 21, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews (89) celebrates his touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews (89) scores a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) during an NFL football game against the , Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Peter Joneleit) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) limps on the sidelines during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) runs the ball past Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Yaya Diaby (0) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) scores a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken) Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (7) and linebacker Roquan Smith (0) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) Chris O'Meara/ The Associated PressBaltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) warms up before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) warms up before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) warms up before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara) View the full article

The Ravens (4-2) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-2) meet on “Monday Night Football” to wrap up Week 7 of the NFL season. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson enters with a 22-1 record against NFC opponents and a four-game winning streak this season, while quarterback Baker Mayfield leads one of the league’s top passing attacks. Follow along here for live coverage and analysis. View the full article

The man who Baltimore Police say assaulted two Commanders fans on camera in a viral video last week turned himself in Monday morning, according to police and his defense attorney. John Callis, 24, surrendered to Baltimore Police’s Southern District station based on an agreement negotiated with authorities, his attorney Brian Thompson said. His case was not immediately available in online court records on Monday. Baltimore Police, who said last week that they had obtained a warrant for Callis’ arrest on assault charges, confirmed that Callis was in police custody Monday, but did not provide further details. Thompson said shortly after 1 p.m. that his client had not yet seen a court commissioner. The video of the Oct. 13 encounter, which followed a Ravens-Commanders matchup at M&T Bank Stadium, depicts a man — identified by police as Callis — wearing a Ravens jersey punching one man wearing a Commanders jersey in the face before throwing another man in a Commanders jersey against a brick wall in Federal Hill. Police said both of the victims were 23-year-old men. This story may be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Dan Belson at dbelson@baltsun.com, 443-790-4827, on X as @DanBelson_ or on Signal as @danbels.62. View the full article

They scored 100 points over three games, and the Ravens needed almost every one of them to get past the AFC’s top two seeds and the NFC’s No. 2 seed to win the Super Bowl. Every so often, you’ll hear some lunkhead claim that Joe Flacco was carried to a Lombardi Trophy by the vaunted Baltimore defense. Anyone who watched those 2012 playoffs knows different. The defense, with Ed Reed in his penultimate season and Ray Lewis playing his final games in the wake of tearing his triceps, was hanging on by the end. It was Flacco’s hot hand, paired with the playmaking talents of Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith and Jacoby Jones and Ray Rice, that took the Ravens to the promised land. This offensive outburst was so memorable in part because it was so unusual for a franchise built on punishing, cocky defense. That 2012 run is pertinent to 2024 because we’re again watching a Ravens team carried by its offense — in this case a historically potent machine led by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. The Ravens have moved the ball so efficiently in recent weeks that they’ve inspired two questions: Is this the best offense in franchise history, and can it get them to the Super Bowl if their defense and special teams continue to underwhelm? They’re assembling an impressive statistical case: first in yards per play, first in rushing and yards per carry, first in passing yards per attempt, first in first downs, fourth (a hair out of first) in points per game. Jackson is off to the best start of his career, making a case to win his third NFL Most Valuable Player award. Henry leads the league in rushing by almost 100 yards; he’s also first in rushing touchdowns, rushes of 20-plus yards and rushes for first downs. More complex metrics, designed to measure efficiency by looking at every play in context, are just as bullish on the Ravens. They rank second in expected points added, sightly behind the Washington Commanders offense they just outscored. They’re an easy first in DVOA and one of the best 25 offenses through six games in the past 46 seasons (that’s as far back as DVOA goes). Their balance is even rarer; they’re one of just seven teams in 46 years to lead the league in both passing DVOA and running DVOA through six games. “That’s pretty good,” said DVOA creator and FTN Fantasy writer Aaron Schatz. Of the 22 teams in Schatz’s database that he had above 30% in offensive DVOA through six games, only two won the Super Bowl but nine made it to the final game. “It still takes a lot of luck, no matter how good you are,” he said. “Not to mention, you have to get past Kansas City.” When he looks at the whys behind the Ravens’ success, he sees Henry’s remarkable speed and tackle shedding at age 30, the surprisingly effective play of an offensive line that was expected to be the team’s weakness and Jackson’s leveling up. Schatz took plenty of heat from Baltimore fans when he was the lone voter not to put Jackson first in MVP balloting last season. “Lamar’s playing better than last year,” he said. “I got in a lot of trouble with the Baltimore fans, but this year, he’s the MVP so far.” Ravens running back Derrick Henry leads the league in rushing by almost 100 yards. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) You won’t gain a lot of traction asking the team’s offensive stars to describe how great everything is going. They’re aware of the growing hype, and the vibes are impeccable, but the closest they’ve come to bragging was Jackson describing their “pick your poison offense” after last Sunday’s win over Washington. Asked about the recent acclaim for his offense, Jackson noted that a few weeks ago, critics questioned whether he and Henry could find an identity together: “People are going to say whatever they want to say. We were just 0-2, and [they were saying] we were the worst offense in the league. … Each and every week, there’s going to be something, we just have to focus on being the best offense that the Ravens have ever had.” Asked if he thinks this could be the best offense he has played on, Henry said, “I think you’ve got to put the work in to have the opportunity to get to that point.” Perhaps the show is easier to appreciate from the sideline. Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton was asked Wednesday what would keep him up at night if he had to face his team’s offense. “I was actually just talking to [defensive coordinator] Zach Orr about that today,” he said. “Just watching our offense operate out there, I was like, ‘How would you stop Zay Flowers?’ And he just gave me like an, ‘I don’t know. Good thing we don’t have to worry about it.’” Leave it to outside voices to describe the reasons the Ravens cannot be stopped. ESPN analyst and former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky criticized them as too predictable early in the year. But on a recent episode of “Get Up,” he explained how Henry is winning games before the first whistle because coordinators feel compelled to put an extra defender in the box to counter No. 22. “This is easy for Lamar Jackson,” Orlovsky said. There are three previous offenses in the conversation for best in franchise history. With the caveat that sweeping judgments based on six games are often misguided, none of them were this good this early. The dark horse is the 1996 offense led by quarterback Vinny Testaverde, which led the league in yards per play and DVOA. The Ravens went 4-12 because their defense was as inefficient as their offense was efficient and they ran into bad luck against a tough schedule. But Testaverde filled the air above Memorial Stadium, with wide receivers Derrick Alexander and Michael Jackson as his primary targets. Last year’s offense, with Jackson winning his second MVP, also deserves mention. That team finished first in rushing, third in in yards per play and fourth in DVOA and demolished a series of playoff-bound opponents. But it’s the 2019 offense that stands out as the best from the Jackson era and the best in franchise history to date. The Ravens easily led the league in scoring, set an all-time rushing record and became the first team in history to average at least 200 rushing yards and 200 passing yards per game. Jackson broke out to win his first MVP in his first full season as the team’s starter, rushing for 1,206 yards and throwing 36 touchdown passes. They didn’t have a running back to match Henry, but Mark Ingram II and Gus Edwards averaged more than 5 yards per carry, and the offensive line featured three Pro Bowl selections in Ronnie Stanley, Marshal Yanda and Orlando Brown Jr. When Jackson was asked Sunday if the Ravens’ current offense is the most balanced of his career, he pointed to 2019 as a comparison. Even in a disastrous playoff loss to Henry’s Tennessee Titans, the Ravens rolled up 530 yards of offense. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens WR/KR Deonte Harty placed on injured reserve; 2 others ruled out vs. Buccaneers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Ben Cleveland lands full-time role on kick blocking unit: ‘Whatever it takes to get on the field’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Arthur Maulet inching toward return, could provide ‘midseason competition’ Baltimore Ravens | Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield pokes fun at Ravens’ Mark Andrews: ‘He’s a weirdo’ Baltimore Ravens | Former Ravens Joe Flacco, Ed Reed to be guests on ManningCast for ‘Monday Night Football’ Which brings us to the second question: Are the 2024 Ravens, hindered by one of the league’s worst pass defenses through six games, balanced enough to win the Super Bowl? Previous Ravens teams rated exceptionally well by DVOA, including the 2023 version, were more balanced, ranking near the top in offense, defense and special teams. Schatz believes that’s the best formula for winning championships because it gives a team more answers to the questions posed by top opponents in the postseason. That said, if he had to be top-heavy in one area, he’d choose offense. “Offense is more consistent and predictable than defense,” he said. “If you have the No. 1 offense and the No. 13 defense, it’s more likely your defense will improve than the other way around.” When he looks down the Ravens’ road, he expects them to slip a little on offense but move up on defense and special teams. That formidable blend, combined with a schedule that’s relatively easier than those faced by the two NFC contenders (Minnesota and Detroit) ahead of the Ravens in overall DVOA, explains why Baltimore has the best odds to win the Super Bowl, according to Schatz’s projections. Have a news tip? Contact Childs Walker at daviwalker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6893 and x.com/ChildsWalker. View the full article

The Ravens will be without wide receiver and kick returner Deonte Harty for at least the next four games. Harty, who hasn’t practiced all week because of a knee injury, was put on injured reserve Saturday, coach John Harbaugh said Saturday. The injury is not expected to be season-ending, he added. With the 26-year-old Baltimore native and former Archbishop Curley star out for the next month, wide receiver Tylan Wallace, among others, is likely to fill his role beginning Monday night against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Wallace has just one punt return this season for 11 yards and let another one go against Cincinnati that the Bengals downed at the Ravens’ 2-yard line that led to a safety when running back Derrick Henry was tackled in the end zone on the next play. But Wallace also provided one of the more memorable moments of last season when he returned a punt for a walk-off touchdown in overtime against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 14. Harty, meanwhile, has appeared in five games for the Ravens this season and has eight punt returns for 85 yards, including a long of 16, and four kickoff returns for 98 yards with a long of 31. Baltimore will also be without rookie running back Rasheen Ali (ankle) and linebacker Malik Harrison (groin) against Tampa Bay with both ruled out in the final injury report of the week. Defensive tackle Broderick Washington (knee), who was limited in practice all week, is doubtful. Harbaugh did say, however, “there’s a chance” that cornerback Arthur Maulet (knee/hamstring) could be activated for the game. Maulet, who is listed as questionable, returned earlier this month after starting the season on injured reserve. The Ravens have until the middle of next week to add him to their active roster or else he would be placed on season-ending injured reserve, though he is expected to be activated before his 21-day window closes. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Ben Cleveland lands full-time role on kick blocking unit: ‘Whatever it takes to get on the field’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Arthur Maulet inching toward return, could provide ‘midseason competition’ Baltimore Ravens | Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield pokes fun at Ravens’ Mark Andrews: ‘He’s a weirdo’ Baltimore Ravens | Former Ravens Joe Flacco, Ed Reed to be guests on ManningCast for ‘Monday Night Football’ Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens have faced one top QB after another. It gets easier soon. For the Buccaneers, starting cornerback Jamel Dean (hamstring) along with tight end Payne Durham (calf) and wide receivers Rakim Jarrett (knee) and Kameron Johnson (ankle) have all been ruled out. However, wide receiver Mike Evans, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury and didn’t practice Thursday and Friday and was limited Saturday, was taken off the injury report and is expected to play Monday. Defensive tackle Vita Vea, meanwhile, was added to the injury report with a hamstring injury and is listed as questionable. Also questionable are running back Rachaad White (foot), defensive lineman Earnest Brown IV (ribs) and wide receiver Trey Palmer (concussion), though all three were full participants in practice Saturday. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Ben Cleveland has a new job for the Ravens. After appearing in 43 games, including seven starts, in his three-plus seasons in Baltimore, the oft-maligned offensive lineman will be on the Ravens’ field goal/extra point block team going forward. “I think he’s earned himself a full-time role,” special teams coordinator Chris Horton Jr. said Friday. “It’s an opportunity to get him out there and let him play.” The move comes after Cleveland blocked a field goal attempt in the second quarter of the Ravens’ eventual 30-23 win over the Commanders at M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday. The idea first percolated about two weeks ago when Cleveland, once a possible candidate for the starting right guard spot in training camp, approached Horton with the idea of joining the field goal and extra point teams. With defensive tackle Broderick Washington out of last week’s game with a knee injury, that helped clear the way for the 6-foot-6, 360-pound lineman’s heroics. “That’s cool to be put into a position to possibly have an impact on this team and give us a chance to win in a tight game,” said Cleveland, who got the news after Friday’s practice in Owings Mills. “Seeing it pay off that quick with the turnaround has been awesome.” He also had a feeling the block was coming. “I told [defensive tackle] Travis [Jones] after the first one. I came off the field, I was like, ‘Travis, we’re gonna get one of these kicks,'” said Cleveland, a 2021 third-round draft pick. “I don’t even know what happened. I blacked out. I was just excited. It wasn’t something I’d done since high school.” It turns out it was also something he’d done well for Stephens County High School in Toccoa, Georgia, where he estimated that he blocked about “10 to 15” kicks during his time there. After his block against Washington, Cleveland said one of his friends FaceTimed him on his way home from the game asking if it was indeed him who’d gotten a piece of Austin Seibert’s 52-yard attempt with the Ravens up 17-10 in the final seconds of the second quarter. Text messages from family and friends started pouring in as well. “I felt it hit my finger, and as soon as I turned around I saw it twirling to the side and thought, ‘That thing ain’t going in,'” Cleveland said. “It wasn’t a good block-it-and-take-it-back-for-a-touchdown block. It was just enough. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Arthur Maulet inching toward return, could provide ‘midseason competition’ Baltimore Ravens | Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield pokes fun at Ravens’ Mark Andrews: ‘He’s a weirdo’ Baltimore Ravens | Former Ravens Joe Flacco, Ed Reed to be guests on ManningCast for ‘Monday Night Football’ Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens have faced one top QB after another. It gets easier soon. Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Can Ben Cleveland play defense, too? | COMMENTARY “I didn’t even come off the ground. I thought I did, but I didn’t. It’s a lot of luck at the end of the day. It’s about having your hand in the right place at the right time.” The same could be said about Cleveland’s circuitous route to unexpected defensive darling and his new role. Horton said he’d never used an offensive lineman in that capacity with the Ravens, but Cleveland’s mammoth size made sense. Then the 26-year-old did the rest. “I absolutely did not expect it to be that way,” Cleveland said. “But whatever it takes to get on the field and help this team win. Whatever they want me to do, I’ll do. Hell, I’ll go out there and kick the field goals if they want me to.” View the full article

Ravens cornerback Arthur Maulet practiced on back-to-back days for the first time all season. The veteran was again a limited participant Friday. His status remains unclear for Baltimore’s “Monday Night Football” showdown with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium, but coach John Harbaugh said practices Thursday and Friday would determine that. Baltimore has until Wednesday to activate Maulet on its 53-man roster. Last season, Maulet recorded 37 tackles, a pair of sacks and an interception in 14 games. After an impressive training camp, the 31-year-old veteran tweaked his hamstring in his first practice back from arthroscopic knee surgery. His return could reshuffle snap counts in the Ravens’ secondary and possibly bolster a group which has struggled thus far against some of the league’s top quarterbacks. “It’s a deep, talented group,” defensive coordinator Zach Orr said. “It is what it is, what we’ve done so far this season but we’re still a very talented group. And it’s gonna be tough to try to find different ways to get guys on the field. It’s good though. I think it brings a good midseason competition of, who can go out there and go do what?” Otherwise, there were no surprises on Friday’s attendance sheet. Defensive lineman Brent Urban returned to the field but was limited after missing Thursday’s practice because of illness. Wide receiver and kick returner Deonte Harty (knee), rookie running back Rasheen Ali (ankle) and linebacker Malik Harrison (groin) were the team’s lone absences. Harty returned two kicks and a punt Sunday against the Washington Commanders but has yet to practice this week. Special teams coordinator Chris Horton said it’s been “complicated” getting the former Archbishop Curley star in a rhythm, but “Harty’s our guy and we believe in him. When he’s healthy and he’s in the right place, we know he can be a difference-maker for us.” Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Ben Cleveland lands full-time role on kick blocking unit: ‘Whatever it takes to get on the field’ Baltimore Ravens | Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield pokes fun at Ravens’ Mark Andrews: ‘He’s a weirdo’ Baltimore Ravens | Former Ravens Joe Flacco, Ed Reed to be guests on ManningCast for ‘Monday Night Football’ Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens have faced one top QB after another. It gets easier soon. Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Can Ben Cleveland play defense, too? | COMMENTARY The Ravens have had a fairly fortunate run of health as they chase their fifth consecutive win. Tampa Bay isn’t in the same boat. Wide receiver Mike Evans was reportedly working with a trainer on the side during the open portion of Friday’s practice. The five-time Pro Bowl selection hasn’t practiced this week nursing a hamstring injury but is expected to play Monday night. The other key absences for Tampa Bay this week included cornerback Jamel Dean (hamstring), tight end Payne Durham (calf) and receiver Kameron Johnson (ankle). Center Graham Barton (hamstring), defensive lineman William Gholston (knee), wide receiver Rakim Jarrett (knee) and running back Rachaad White (foot) were all limited again Friday. Tampa Bay did get a few contributors back to full participation: outside linebacker Chris Braswell (shoulder), defensive back Christian Izien (elbow/groin), receiver Trey Palmer (concussion) and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. (foot). View the full article

Baker Mayfield just misses his best friend. In a tongue-in-cheek conversation with ESPN reporter Jenna Laine on Thursday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback said his former Oklahoma teammate won’t talk to him during the season — even before they face off on “Monday Night Football” when the Ravens visit Raymond James Stadium. “Even though Mark and I are best friends, him and I don’t talk in season,” Mayfield said jokingly. “He’s a weirdo. He can’t exactly separate friendship and football, so he struggles with that on a year-to-year basis. So there’s a few months at a time where we’re friends again. But for right now, no.” While this will be the first time the friends face off since the Panthers’ 13-3 loss to the Ravens on Nov. 20, 2022, at M&T Bank Stadium, Mayfield — who is 3-6 in his career against Baltimore — still hasn’t heard from his former teammate. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Ben Cleveland lands full-time role on kick blocking unit: ‘Whatever it takes to get on the field’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Arthur Maulet inching toward return, could provide ‘midseason competition’ Baltimore Ravens | Former Ravens Joe Flacco, Ed Reed to be guests on ManningCast for ‘Monday Night Football’ Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens have faced one top QB after another. It gets easier soon. Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Can Ben Cleveland play defense, too? | COMMENTARY “It hurts. It hurts my feelings,” Mayfield said. “That guy was in my wedding and won’t talk to me. It hurts my feelings. Just gotta be honest.” Mayfield took the opportunity Thursday to jokingly question if Andrews has changed because of what he called “a very serious girlfriend.” ESPN said that Andrews has been dating social media ambassador Elena Yates since the summer of 2023. “Some people think he’s gone soft,” Mayfield said. “I’m not one of those people, but the people are murmuring. There’s whispers out there.” If there was any doubt about Mayfield’s true feelings for his friend-turned-rival, he ended his news conference with a simple “Love you, Mark.” Have a news tip? Contact C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

When the Ravens play the Buccaneers in Tampa on Monday night, there will be some familiar faces on the broadcast. Former Baltimore quarterback Joe Flacco and safety Ed Reed will be guests on ESPN’s ManningCast. It will be the first appearance on the show for the former Ravens stars, who helped lead the team to its second Super Bowl title in February 2013. The 39-year-old Flacco, who was named Super Bowl Most Valuable Player after one of the best postseason runs in league history, is now a backup for the Indianapolis Colts, while Reed, 46, spent 11 seasons with Baltimore and was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019. The show, which is hosted by brothers Peyton and Eli Manning, is in its fourth season and airs on ESPN+ and ESPN2 opposite ESPN’s traditional broadcast of the game. The two former quarterbacks provide analysis and insight during the game while featuring a wide range of guests. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Ben Cleveland lands full-time role on kick blocking unit: ‘Whatever it takes to get on the field’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Arthur Maulet inching toward return, could provide ‘midseason competition’ Baltimore Ravens | Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield pokes fun at Ravens’ Mark Andrews: ‘He’s a weirdo’ Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens have faced one top QB after another. It gets easier soon. Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Can Ben Cleveland play defense, too? | COMMENTARY It is also one of two Ravens games that will include the ManningCast this season, with the other slated for Nov. 25 when Baltimore travels to Los Angeles to play the Chargers in a game pitting brothers John and Jim Harbaugh against one another after the Chargers hired Jim as their coach earlier this year. Flacco has appeared in three games (two starts) for the Colts this season while filling in for injured starter Anthony Richardson and has completed 71 of 108 passes for 716 yards and seven touchdowns with one interception. Indianapolis won two of those games, including a 20-17 victory over the Tennessee Titans last week. Now in his 17th season, Flacco recently reflected on the end of his time in Baltimore, when a hip injury allowed rookie Lamar Jackson to take over as the Ravens’ starter for good in 2018. Flacco was traded to the Denver Broncos that offseason. “Man, I did not want to let Lamar get out there, that’s for sure,” Flacco said. “That was my team. And that was very hard mentally for me. I pushed it as far as I could in terms of trying to let them convince me to go out there and play. But at the same time, you don’t want to put your future career in danger.” Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 draft who missed time with rib and oblique injuries, is expected to start Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

On Thursday, safety Kyle Hamilton — the unequivocal leader of Baltimore’s secondary — stood beside his locker and listed the gantlet of quarterbacks the Ravens have played thus far: Patrick Mahomes, Dak Prescott, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels. Perennial playoff contenders and an eye-popping rookie, all one after the other. “Going against all these different kinds of quarterbacks is who we’re gonna see in the playoffs,” Hamilton said, “so I think it’s good to have that experience to know how different people play.” The Ravens’ secondary has been their defense’s weakest spot. By average passing yards allowed, they’re in the cellar of the league — No. 32 in total yards allowed (1,789), passing plays of 20-plus yards (28) and passes for first downs (88). Hamilton even suggested last week, at times, it felt as if their progress plateaued. At the same time, the defensive group finding its footing has been at the mercy of NFL schedule makers. Baltimore entered this season with the league’s second-toughest schedule, determined by the winning percentage of each teams’ 2023 opponents. Remarkable quarterback play has been at the forefront of each matchup, worthy of its own highlight reel. There was Daniels, on Sunday, having floated a touchdown pass through a barely ajar window to veteran receiver Terry McLaurin. Before him, Burrow spiraled a few into pockets only his two illustrious receivers could grab them. Allen arrived in Baltimore as the early front-runner for NFL Most Valuable Player. Last month, All-Pro Davante Adams submitted himself for toe-drag of the year with an improbable catch from Gardner Minshew during the Raiders’ fourth-quarter comeback. Mahomes picked apart Baltimore’s secondary, too, with heavy reliance on Rashee Rice. And Prescott had five receivers tally over 40 yards. This exhausting stretch of the Ravens facing top-tier quarterbacks complemented by exceptional pass catchers is almost over, with the middling Denver Broncos and dumpster fire Cleveland Browns on the horizon. But first, they have Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on “Monday Night Football” at Raymond James Stadium. Mayfield holds the league lead in passing touchdowns with 15, including seven in just the past two games. He’s also fourth in completion rate (70.9%) with a dynamic receiver tandem of Chris Godwin and Mike Evans at his disposal. Henceforth, the Ravens have the 20th-easiest schedule over the next 12 weeks, according to Pro Football Network. They’ll face only one other team currently in ESPN’s top-10 power rankings when they go to Houston in Week 17. The rest of the schedule isn’t necessarily easy, with another meeting against Cincinnati, two games against the division-rival Pittsburgh Steelers and one road trip versus the much-improved Los Angeles Chargers. But the gantlet is behind them. Hamilton thinks the front-loaded schedule has been beneficial. In his mind, the secondary has grown since Week 1. Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton says the secondary is improving, even if the stats suggest the unit is a major weakness. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) “I would say we’re a little more cohesive,” Hamilton said. “A couple of new guys in the group, like Nate [Wiggins] and Eddie [Jackson]. [It’s] nothing negative against them; it just takes a little time to jell with those guys, playing in a game, and I feel like we’re at a good spot right now.” Wiggins played sparingly against the Chiefs, then was inactive against the Raiders because of a concussion. The rookie has since started three of the past four games. Coach John Harbaugh said earlier this week that he’s noticed opposing teams targeting Wiggins “because he’s young, like they would anybody, but he’s held his own really well. I think he’s only going to continue to improve.” Jackson signed with the Ravens on a one-year deal in July. The 30-year-old two-time Pro Bowl selection has made two starts and has seen his snap count seesaw. Pro Football Focus graded both he and Wiggins in the low 50s. Marcus Williams, meanwhile, has struggled in the third season of his five-year $70 million deal, ranking 78th of 83 safeties in PFF grade. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Can Ben Cleveland play defense, too? | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers scouting report for Week 7: Who has the edge? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers staff picks: Who will win Monday’s game in Tampa? Baltimore Ravens | Ex-Ravens OLB Tyus Bowser discusses $4.5 million grievance against team Baltimore Ravens | As Lamar Jackson MVP hype heats up again, Ravens QB wants to ‘win in February’ Is there any relief in soon escaping to a less dazzling part of the schedule? “No,” defensive coordinator Zach Orr said ahead of beating Washington. “There is no relief. It feels like, every week, we get up here, and we’re playing one of the top offenses, one of the top quarterbacks. But we’re a confident group, still; that’s what I’m saying inspires me. We know what we’ve done in really good ways, and we know what we’ve done that hasn’t lived up to the standard. “We know if you cut on the film, I highly doubt that you’ll see that we don’t have good players, we don’t have good schemes, [and] we don’t have good coaches. We’ve just got to be consistent, and that’s what we’re chasing.” Monday won’t be any easier on the Ravens’ secondary. But perhaps some relief might be ahead. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Baltimore Sun columnist Mike Preston will answer fans’ questions in the middle of each week throughout the Ravens season. After a 30-23 win over the Washington Commanders on Sunday, Baltimore (4-2) is riding a four-game winning streak entering a “Monday Night Football” matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Here’s Preston’s take on a handful of questions from readers: (Editor’s note: Questions have been edited for length and clarity.) It was great to see Lamar “spread the wealth” with more passes to Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews on Sunday. Why did it take so long when we have so many weapons? — Jamie Myers If you go back to the first two games, the Ravens played against two teams with quality defensive lines in Kansas City and Las Vegas. It wasn’t a good matchup for the Ravens, especially starting two young players on the offensive line. In those two games, quarterback Lamar Jackson was sacked six times. Those things happen. It’s like the Ravens’ secondary matched up against the Bengals’ wide receivers: There are times when you have to compensate or make adjustments for your weaknesses. In the past four games, the Ravens have played four bad run defenses in Dallas, Buffalo, Cincinnati and Washington. They have made all of them pay by using running back Derrick Henry, which sets up the play-action passing game. The last two teams tried to stack the line of scrimmage, but Jackson has done well getting all of his receivers involved in the passing game. I don’t think it took Jackson long, it was just a matter of strengths versus weaknesses, and him having time to throw. If you’re going to beat the Ravens, you better have a good defensive line and some good cornerbacks. Kansas City has those ingredients, along with Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, but there are few others that can provide that challenge to the Ravens. There’s always been so much talk about how big and strong Ben Cleveland is. He’s now been added to the field goal defense team and came up with a big block. His teammate, Tyler Linderbaum, mentioned that the team “should be able to find a role for him.” With that, do you think the Ravens could (or should) try him out on the defensive line, much like Patrick Ricard — who was pretty good there — at the beginning of his Ravens career? — Martin D. Sorry, Martin, Ricard is athletic. He can play fullback, tight end or H-back. Cleveland is a bonafide offensive lineman. Because he is tall, he was a fit for special teams on the field goal block unit. But go back and look at the film. It’s not like he had the vertical leap of Michael Jordan. He can play several positions on the offensive line, but defensive linemen have to be runners. Believe me, Big Ben is no runner. Has Brandon Stephens ever actually gotten his head turned around to SEE and defend a pass? The guy is just guessing at when and where the ball will be there. — Eric from Bel Air, Maryland I have this argument with a certain person all the time. He tells me Stephens always gets beat on the first move, but has great recovery speed, yet that doesn’t allow him to turn and find the ball. I don’t believe that. He is always in position to make a play but never locates the ball. I see a lot of college players performing the same way. In the old days, they used to tell cornerbacks that once the receiver turns to look for the ball, you turn as well. I guess the techniques have changed because a lot of players coming out of college never look for the ball. Next time, watch a college game and let me know what you see. Maybe with Dean Pees, 75, as the adviser, he will make Stephens turn and play the ball. It’s frustrating watching him play because he always seems to have great position. The Ravens have appeared to right the ship and are on a four-game winning streak. In your estimation, can the Ravens extend it to an eight-game winning streak in the next four weeks? — Ed Helinski from Auburn, New York Can they? Yes. Will they? I don’t know. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers scouting report for Week 7: Who has the edge? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers staff picks: Who will win Monday’s game in Tampa? Baltimore Ravens | Ex-Ravens OLB Tyus Bowser discusses $4.5 million grievance against team Baltimore Ravens | As Lamar Jackson MVP hype heats up again, Ravens QB wants to ‘win in February’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens mostly healthy, Buccaneers have crowded injury report ahead of ‘Monday Night Football’ It sounds like a cliche, but the NFL really is a week-to-week league. The Ravens can win the next four against Tampa Bay, Cleveland, Denver and Cincinnati. Right now, I don’t see any defense that can stop the Ravens. I’m not claiming they have this high-powered offense, but the Ravens have a physical style and presence. The emphasis around the NFL is on having a sophisticated passing attack, and these are some of the worst defenses I have seen in quite a while. I very seldom have seen tight ends and receivers so wide-open. Teams don’t hit anymore, and rules have cut down on the amount of contact in games. If the Ravens fix their secondary, they have as good of a chance to play for the championship as any other team. It’s wide-open, but I’ve said this from the start of training camp: The road to the Super Bowl goes through Kansas City. Nothing has caused me to change my mind yet. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

The Ravens handled the dangerous Washington Commanders, 30-23. The Buccaneers destroyed the New Orleans Saints, 51-27. Who will have the advantage when these high-scoring teams meet on “Monday Night Football?” Ravens passing game vs. Buccaneers pass defense Lamar Jackson has thrown for 671 yards over the Ravens’ last two games, the second-highest two-game total of his career. He’s shredding defenses schemed to depress his and Derrick Henry’s running totals. The Commanders couldn’t cover Zay Flowers, who caught all nine passes thrown his way for 132 yards in the first half. Tight end Mark Andrews and wide receiver Rashod Bateman took it from there as the Ravens sustained successful drive after successful drive. Jackson is averaging a career-high 8.7 yards per attempt and has completed 67% of his passes, just off his career-high from his 2023 Most Valuable Player season. He’s throwing to the best set of targets he’s ever had, and his command of coordinator Todd Monken’s offense is apparent. He has also benefited from solid pass protection, led by left tackle Ronnie Stanley and enhanced by the rapid improvement of right guard Daniel Faalele and rookie right tackle Roger Rosengarten. Against Tampa Bay, Jackson will see another defense that likes to load the box. The Buccaneers blitz on 29.5% of dropbacks, so the Ravens will have plenty of chances to attack downfield as they did in wins over Washington and the Cincinnati Bengals. The Buccaneers have held opposing quarterbacks to 5.8 yards per attempt and have intercepted five passes. Their approach is working. Atlanta’s Kirk Cousins was the only quarterback to go off on them (509 yards and four touchdowns in a Falcons overtime win). Third-year cornerback Zyon McCollum (two interceptions, 10 passes defended) has been outstanding, grading as the league’s best, according to Pro Football Focus. Fellow starter Jamel Dean and nickel back Tykee Smith have also played well. The Buccaneers don’t have an elite edge rusher, but nose tackle Vita Vea is a threat to collapse the pocket. EDGE: Ravens Buccaneers passing game vs. Ravens pass defense The Ravens will see a familiar face in former Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield, who’s thriving as Tampa Bay’s starter after less successful stops with the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams. Mayfield is completing a career-high 70.9% of his passes and averaging 7.9 yards per attempt. He’s doing it without looking downfield much as he’s averaging just 5.6 air yards per attempt, second-lowest in the league, per the NFL’s Next Gen Stats. He’s getting rid of the ball quicker than anyone but injured Miami starter Tua Tagovailoa. That means the onus will be on the Ravens’ pass coverage, a scary thought considering most of Mayfield’s throws go to a rejuvenated Chris Godwin (43 catches, 511 yards, five touchdowns) and ageless Mike Evans (25 catches, 310 yards, five touchdowns). They’re one one of the league’s best wide receiver duos. Godwin, who often lines up in the slot, leads the league with 324 yards after the catch. The last time the Ravens faced such a pair, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow found Ja’Marr Chase for a combined 19 catches, 273 yards and four touchdowns. They will need cornerback Brandon Stephens, who often ends up on the opponent’s top target, to have one of his best games. Marlon Humphrey could be their main answer to Godwin. It will be interesting to see how much they use rookie Nate Wiggins on the outside after he struggled against Washington and Cincinnati. Given Mayfield’s propensity to throw quick and short, safety Kyle Hamilton, back on form after an injury-plagued start to the season, could play an outsized role around the line of scrimmage. Mayfield took five sacks against the Detroit Lions and seven against the Denver Broncos, so he can be reached. He has also thrown five interceptions, so perhaps this will be a chance for the Ravens to up their takeaway rate. They rank 21st after creating the most turnovers in the league last season. EDGE: Buccaneers Ravens running game vs. Buccaneers run defense Even with opponents spying on Jackson and loading up to stuff Henry, the Ravens easily lead the league in yards per game (205.3) and yards per attempt (5.9). Jackson and Henry rank first and second, respectively, in yards per carry among those with 50 or more attempts. Henry has turned into a devastating closer, breaking off long final-drive runs to finish off the Bengals and Commanders. He and Jackson have also fueled the Ravens’ league-best efficiency on third down and in the red zone. Ravens running back Derrick Henry leads the NFL in rushing through six games, and the Buccaneers have struggled to consistently stop the run this year. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) The Buccaneers gave up at least 130 yards in their first three games (two of those against Detroit and Washington’s efficient ground games) but have allowed just 154 over their last two. They allow 4.7 yards per carry, ninth-worst in the league, so they might be in for a long evening against Jackson and Henry, even with the aforementioned stacked boxes. Veteran linebacker Lavonte David remains a solid run defender, and the secondary does a good job in support, but the Tampa Bay defense isn’t stout upfront or on the edges. EDGE: Ravens Buccaneers running game vs. Ravens run defense The Buccaneers think pass first, but they have run efficiently, especially with rookie back Bucky Irving (5.7 yards per carry). Starting running back Rachaad White missed Tampa Bay’s win over New Orleans with a foot injury, so the Ravens will probably see a lot of Irving. Owings Mills native Sean Tucker (Calvert Hall) had a huge game against the Saints with 136 yards on 14 carries. Mayfield has been a threat to take off with 136 yards on 21 attempts. The Buccaneers will go against a Baltimore defense that has allowed just 59 yards per game and 3 yards per attempt, both best in the league. Opponents have mostly stopped trying, as the Ravens have outgained them by a remarkable 146 yards per game. Defensive tackles Travis Jones and Michael Pierce dominate upfront. Kyle Van Noy, Tavius Robinson and Odafe Oweh set tough edges. Hamilton and linebacker Roquan Smith clean up in the middle. The Ravens run defense and pass rush have been strengths this season, even with the secondary faltering. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) EDGE: Ravens Ravens special teams vs. Buccaneers special teams Against Washington, the Ravens avoided the special teams miscues that had haunted them in previous weeks. Justin Tucker followed up his clutch 56-yard field goal in Cincinnati with a perfect 3-for-3 day. But they still rank 22nd in special teams DVOA because of Tucker’s earlier struggles and lackluster kickoff coverage and returns. Punter Jordan Stout’s development (he’s put 50% of his kicks inside the opponent’s 20-yard line) has been a bright spot. Justin Tucker has been reliable for Baltimore after a slow start to the 2024 season. (Dylan Buell/Getty Images) The Buccaneers rank 24th in special teams DVOA, largely because of abysmal performance in punt coverage, where they’ve allowed 14.4 yards per return and a touchdown. Kicker Chase McLaughlin has been excellent, making all 11 of his attempts, including five from 50 yards or beyond. Sean Tucker has been dangerous on kickoff returns, averaging 31.7 yards with a long of 53. EDGE: Buccaneers Ravens intangibles vs. Buccaneers intangibles The Ravens have won four straight and their confidence, especially on offense, grows by the week. They’re 9-2 on the road over the last two seasons, and Jackson has lost just one career start against an NFC opponent. The Ravens are used to playing on the road in prime time. They’ve traveled to 16 of their 20 Monday Night Football games under coach John Harbaugh and have gone 10-6. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Can Ben Cleveland play defense, too? | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers staff picks: Who will win Monday’s game in Tampa? Baltimore Ravens | Ex-Ravens OLB Tyus Bowser discusses $4.5 million grievance against team Baltimore Ravens | As Lamar Jackson MVP hype heats up again, Ravens QB wants to ‘win in February’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens mostly healthy, Buccaneers have crowded injury report ahead of ‘Monday Night Football’ Todd Bowles has gone 21-19 in three years as Tampa Bay’s coach and has his team off to a surprising start, with Mayfield leading the league’s second-highest-scoring offense. The Buccaneers will be confident coming off their demolition of the Saints. They’re 7-5 at home over the last two seasons, including a playoff win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Tampa Bay needs to win to keep pace with the Falcons in the NFC South. EDGE: Ravens Prediction The Buccaneers are playing well and will present a solid test on both sides of the ball. Godwin and Evans will stress the Ravens’ struggling secondary, with Mayfield releasing the ball quickly to negate the Baltimore pass rush. It will again be up to the Ravens’ offense to outgun a formidable opponent. Jackson will punish opponents who try to crowd the line of scrimmage. Henry, even if he doesn’t go off early, will wear on Tampa Bay by the end. There’s no slowing this train. Ravens 31, Buccaneers 24 Have a news tip? Contact Childs Walker at daviwalker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6893 and x.com/ChildsWalker. View the full article

Here’s how The Baltimore Sun sports staff views the outcome of Monday night’s Week 7 game between the Ravens (4-2) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-2) at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida: Brian Wacker, reporter Ravens 27, Buccaneers 24: Another week, another opponent with a prolific offense. The Buccaneers are coming off a 51-point outburst and feature one of the best wide receiver duos in the league in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin along with a quarterback in Baker Mayfield who leads the NFL in touchdown passes (15), is fourth in completion percentage (.709), eighth in passing yards (1,489) and second in passer rating (109.4). He has also torched opponents over the middle, an area of the field Baltimore continues to struggle defending, has been accurate under pressure and on the run and has been equally adept against man and zone coverage. Of course, the Ravens and their duo of quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry have helped propel Baltimore to the NFL’s top offense with 2,722 total yards. Both defenses have given up a ton of passing yards this season as well, so expect this one to be a fun shootout that could come down to a late Justin Tucker field goal to win it. Childs Walker, reporter Ravens 31, Buccaneers 24: The Buccaneers are playing well and will present a solid test on both sides of the ball. Wide receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans will stress the Ravens’ struggling secondary, with Baker Mayfield releasing the ball quickly to negate the Baltimore pass rush. It will again be up to the Ravens’ offense to outgun a formidable opponent. Lamar Jackson has demonstrated he will punish opponents who try to crowd the line of scrimmage with high-efficiency passing. Derrick Henry, even if he doesn’t go off early, will wear on Tampa Bay by the end. There’s no slowing this train. Mike Preston, columnist Ravens 31, Buccaneers 24: Tampa Bay has one of the best defensive minds in the NFL in coach Todd Bowles, who will give Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson a lot to think about for three quarters. But the Buccaneers have little talent on defense. They are ranked No. 26 in total defense, allowing 365.7 yards per game, and are 28th in pass defense, allowing 252.3 yards per game. I like Baker Mayfield’s competitive spirit, and he’ll cause problems for the Ravens’ secondary, but Baltimore has too much talent to lose to this team and their physical style is more than the Bucs are used to facing. C.J. Doon, editor Ravens 34, Buccaneers 23: With the way the Ravens’ offense is rolling right now, it’s hard to envision anyone being able to outscore them. Tampa Bay boasts a prolific passing attack and more juice in the running game now that Bucky Irving and Sean Tucker have taken over for injured starter Rachaad White, but the last time the Bucs faced a good defense, they were held to seven points in an embarrassing loss to the Broncos. Although Baltimore’s defense has struggled, especially against elite receivers, it feels like only a matter of time before they figure things out now that Dean Pees is back on staff. If the Ravens can stop the run and put enough pressure on Baker Mayfield to force him outside the pocket, they should be able to limit big plays. On the flip side, a deep Tampa Bay defensive front led by Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey could cause trouble for the Ravens’ offensive line, but the fact that there are no worries about how Lamar Jackson will handle the rush speaks to how well both he and the offense are playing right now. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Can Ben Cleveland play defense, too? | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers scouting report for Week 7: Who has the edge? Baltimore Ravens | Ex-Ravens OLB Tyus Bowser discusses $4.5 million grievance against team Baltimore Ravens | As Lamar Jackson MVP hype heats up again, Ravens QB wants to ‘win in February’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens mostly healthy, Buccaneers have crowded injury report ahead of ‘Monday Night Football’ Tim Schwartz, editor Ravens 35, Buccaneers 28: On its face, the Ravens’ 4-2 record is pretty impressive. But when you look at the list of quarterbacks they’ve faced so far this season, it’s even more so. Mahomes, Prescott, Allen, Burrow, Daniels … just ignore the other one (OK, fine, it’s Minshew). Monday night will bring no reprieve in that aspect, as Baker Mayfield has been fairly steady this season with 15 touchdown passes and five interceptions, three of which he threw last week in a 51-27 shootout victory over the Saints, while completing more than 70% of his passes. The Ravens have their work cut out for them, and they have struggled mightily to slow down the league’s top wide receivers. They will not be excited to see Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. But Baltimore’s offense and Lamar Jackson are clicking on all cylinders right now, and it’s hard to see the Bucs having an answer for Derrick Henry and the rest of the Ravens’ playmakers. Getting everyone involved and spreading the ball around while leaning on Henry to finish games has been a recipe for success that they should be looking to continue in prime time. Bennett Conlin, editor Ravens 27, Buccaneers 21: Pro Football Focus says Tampa Bay ranks fifth-worst in the NFL in run defense and sixth-worst in tackling. That’s not a good recipe for success against a Baltimore team that leads the NFL in yards per game (453.7) and rushing yards per game (205.3). If you can’t tackle well, you don’t stand much of a chance to beat Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson. Baker Mayfield leads the NFL in passing touchdowns with 15, as the Buccaneers have a solid offense this season. That should be enough for Tampa Bay to keep pace in the NFC South race, but it won’t be enough Monday against one of the NFL’s best teams. View the full article

It was mid-October last year and the Ravens had just wrapped up a successful journey to London, where they recorded the first of what ended up being 10 victories in 11 weeks en route to securing the NFL’s best record and an eventual appearance in the AFC championship game. Along for the ride — across the pond and throughout the season — was injured outside linebacker Tyus Bowser, often playing catch with fans during pregame warmups at home games. In London, he got a tour of Tottenham Hotspur’s sprawling and spectacular facilities while his teammates practiced as he continued to recover from a knee injury he’d suffered in the offseason. Coach John Harbaugh had expected the 2017 second-round draft pick to be available at the start of last season and a significant piece of a stout defense, but with each passing week, it became obvious that Bowser wasn’t going to be activated from the non-football injury list. He never played last season, and the Ravens released Bowser in March. Publicly, Harbaugh and general manager Eric DeCosta said little and spoke vaguely about Bowser’s injury, with the coach in late October saying the knee is “a little angry at times.” Privately, Bowser, who filed a $4.5 million grievance against the organization in April after not being paid for last season, fumed over his medical care. “I’m going into the year talking with the [Ravens’] doctors; I was supposed to be back at the beginning of training camp and [the injury] lingered on throughout the season,” Bowser told The Baltimore Sun earlier this month. “You expecting the people that you trust that is getting paid to help you get back on the field and they’re not doing their job. “I went the entire year without knowing exactly why my knee was reacting the way it did, and then I go to somebody else [for an opinion] and he tells me within 10 minutes what the problem is. Something as simple as an MRI you’ve seen millions of times, you can’t see this simple thing. That’s nobody else’s fault but yours.” The injury, according to Bowser, was loose bodies — fragments of bone or cartilage that break off and float in the knee joint, causing pain, swelling and limited range of motion — that lingered for months. He was given platelet-rich plasma injections to treat it, but the swelling persisted, he said. At some point along the way, he also suffered a staph infection. It wasn’t until December, according to Bowser, that an outside second opinion correctly identified the injury. “It was a thing that can be fixed through surgery and going to clean out the knee, but I went the entire year without the doctors even knowing it,” Bowser told The Sun. “That caused me to miss the whole year. That could’ve easily been fixed and I could’ve been back by the start of the season.” Kevin Richardson / Baltimore Sun“It was a thing that can be fixed through surgery and going to clean out the knee, but I went the entire year without the doctors even knowing it,” Tyus Bowser said. “That caused me to miss the whole year. That could’ve easily been fixed and I could’ve been back by the start of the season.” (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Asked about Bowser during the team’s season-ending news conference, DeCosta did not provide details. “Unfortunate for Tyus, he couldn’t play this year,” he said in February. “Can’t really get into all the different specifics of that, as you guys know, how we handle the injuries. I think Tyus has probably talked about it in some way. He had an injury unfortunately and wasn’t able to play. We’ll have to continue to assess that in the coming weeks to see where he stands with that injury. [He’s] a great man [and] a good player for us. Just a tough deal for him this year, and we’ll have to deal with it.” Just over a month later, the Ravens, who’d signed Bowser to a four-year, $22 million extension in March 2021 before he went on to post a career-high seven sacks that season, cut him loose. The following month, Bowser filed a $4.5 million grievance against the team through the NFL Players Association, which did not respond to a request for comment. The Ravens were hit with a $1.8 million salary cap penalty as a result and could face another one for $2.7 million next year if Bowser wins the case, which isn’t expected to be decided until 2025. If the Ravens win, they would receive a $1.8 million credit for next year’s salary cap. The two sides could also reach a settlement before then, a route the Ravens chose in 2022 over a contract dispute with former safety Earl Thomas and in 2015 with former running back Ray Rice after they terminated his contract following a video that surfaced of him striking his then-fiancee in an Atlantic City casino elevator. On Bowser’s matter, DeCosta, team president Sashi Brown and Ravens chief medical officer Dr. Andrew Tucker declined to comment through a team spokesperson. “We do not provide comments on ongoing grievances,” the spokesperson said. However, unlike the injured reserve or the physically unable to perform list, when it comes to the non-football injury list, teams are not obligated to pay a player’s base salary if he suffers an injury outside the team’s watch. A team can opt to pay a player if it chooses. Still, Bowser believes how the Ravens’ medical staff handled his injury is what prevented him from being able to return to the field last season and thus collect the money he was otherwise due. “We believe when the facts come out, the order of events is going to show as long as the Ravens’ doctor that they gave him was taking care of Tyus, he wasn’t getting better,” Bowser’s attorney, Greg Dortch, told The Sun. “They didn’t even follow their own protocols to give him the test that they thought he needed. They didn’t pay any attention to him or care about him at all. “Once he got out of the Ravens’ organization and got good medical care, the results speak for themselves.” A free agent and healthy once more this summer, Bowser, 29, worked out for the Cowboys, Titans and Seahawks before signing with Seattle’s practice squad. There, he was reunited with former Ravens defensive coordinator and Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald. Bowser appeared in two games for Seattle (one start) and had one tackle across 38 total snaps before Miami signed him to its 53-man roster two weeks ago. There, another familiar face greeted him — former Ravens defensive line coach Anthony Weaver, now the Dolphins’ defensive coordinator. In Miami’s 15-10 win over the New England Patriots on Oct. 6, he had one tackle in 33 defensive snaps but also a sack that was later taken away. “It was easy carryover,” Bowser told The Sun about the defensive schemes of the two ex-Ravens assistants. “Having the opportunity to play again was a blessing for me. I never take it for granted, especially after being out last year. It’s good to just put my feet back on the field.” As for his time in Baltimore, though, Bowser’s feelings are mixed. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | As Lamar Jackson MVP hype heats up again, Ravens QB wants to ‘win in February’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens mostly healthy, Buccaneers have crowded injury report ahead of ‘Monday Night Football’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens practice, October 17, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers betting guide: Picks, predictions and odds for Week 7 matchup Baltimore Ravens | Staff picks for Week 7 of 2024 NFL season: Texans vs. Packers, Chiefs vs. 49ers and more “It was difficult because I’m expecting to get the results, especially from the doctors that I’m supposed to trust and lean on to get me back on the field,” he told The Sun. “Unfortunately that didn’t work out. I just tried to find some type of joy within the process because I was definitely depressed, definitely disappointed not being able to play and be able to be around the guys.” Yet, Bowser said he was appreciative of his seven years with the Ravens, which included 152 tackles and 19 1/2 sacks over 89 games. “I look it as a rough breakup,” he told The Sun. “If you’re married, you have a wife and been with them for seven years, little things like that grind away from you continuing that relationship and it breaks off. Of course, you’re discouraged and you’re feeling some type of way because you’re not there anymore, but you’re always gonna have love for that person. “That’s what I feel about the team. I’m always gonna have love for Baltimore — the team, the players, the organization, all the people upstairs. All of those people made my dreams come true coming into this league, so I know there’s no bad blood between me and the Ravens because they’ve allowed me to take care of my family being able to bring joy and bring my goals to life. … But like I said, a bad breakup where it unfortunately had to end. But that’s part of business.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

By any number of metrics, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is playing perhaps the best football of his career. Through the first six games, he has thrown for 1,529 yards with 10 touchdowns and just two interceptions while rushing for 403 yards and two more scores on 64 carries, numbers that are well ahead of what he produced through the first six games of last season when he went on to be named the NFL Most Valuable Player for a second time. Other numbers are eye-opening, too, with Jackson ranking third in expected points added per pass and eighth among all players in rushing yards. Consequently and unsurprisingly, Baltimore’s offense ranks first in defense-adjusted value over average (DVOA). Asked on Thursday in Owings Mills if this is the best he is playing in what is now his seventh year in the league, Jackson demurred, but didn’t exactly deny it. “I just feel like everything is slowing down even more just from the years I’ve been in the league and seeing all types of defenses, seeing all types of blitzes,” he said. “Everything is just second nature right now. I’m just trying to be a better player myself each and every year, so I’ll just say everything is slowing down. That’s what’s helping it.” As the game slows down for one of the sport’s fastest and most electrifying players — a scary proposition for defenses by any measure — talk of another MVP Award is naturally heating up. In Baltimore’s four straight wins after two straight losses to open the season, Jackson is fourth in completion rate (70.3%), second in yards per drop-back (9.1) and has thrown eight touchdown passes to just one interception while rushing for 236 yards. In wins over the Cincinnati Bengals and Washington Commanders over the past two weeks, he threw for more than 300 yards in each, racked up 766 total yards and threw five touchdown passes with one interception and one fumble lost. When Ravens coach John Harbaugh was asked if this is the best he has seen from the 27-year-old Jackson to date, he was more forthright. “The honest answer is probably yes, just because he’s the most far along as he’s been, just as a player and development-wise,” he said. “He’s always seeking to improve. He’s very much a perfectionist. He wants every play to be perfect. He chases perfection in his football.” Through the first six games, Lamar Jackson has thrown for 1,529 yards with 10 touchdowns and just two interceptions while rushing for 403 yards and two more scores. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) One-third of the way into the season, the Ravens also seem to have found the perfect mix, at least on offense — something that’s been needed given the defense’s continued struggles. Baltimore is tops in the league in yards per game (453.7), yards per play (6.9), red zone scoring (75%) and third-down conversion rate (51.47%), third in yards per pass (8.6) and fourth in points per game (29.5). With 1,232 rushing yards — which is 229 more than the second-best team — and an average of 5.9 yards per carry, the Ravens also have the NFL’s best ground attack with running back Derrick Henry leading the way. His 704 rushing yards and eight touchdowns are the most in the league, and last Sunday against the Commanders he had his fourth game of the year with more than 30 rushing yards over expected, per Next Gen Stats, also the most in the NFL. By comparison, only San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey had more such games all of last season with five. Henry’s success, of course, has made life that much easier for Jackson, who has thrived in play-action passing, among other areas. Against the Commanders, he completed 9 of 10 passes for 155 yards on play action. His presnap identification has also stood out in particular and significant ways. “It was like a cheat code, it was really like his ability to identify the coverages,” former Washington tight end Logan Paulsen said on the “Take Command” podcast earlier this week. “I don’t know if anybody thought — I know I didn’t think it — that he had that kind of ability at the line of scrimmage very similar to Tom Brady and Peyton Manning to just get you into the right look consistently. That’s super impressive. “A lot of the big plays in this game came from his communication and mastery of that offense. … Those plays were back-breaking.” And it’s helped make the Ravens’ offense as potent as it is dynamic. So has the emergence of other playmakers. Zay Flowers in his second year has quickly become a No. 1 wide receiver with two straight 100-yard games, which included a career-high 132 in the first half alone last week. His 401 receiving yards rank 11th in the league and has him on pace for more than 1,100 in the season. Meanwhile, fellow receiver Rashod Bateman leads the NFL with a separation rate of 72.73% against press coverage and has started to find his rhythm with Jackson. Tight ends Mark Andrews and the ascendant Isaiah Likely have been trustworthy targets and adept blockers. Not only is Jackson making those around him better, but now in the second year of offensive coordinator Todd Monken’s scheme he has reached a new level of comfort as well. “[I’m] a lot [more] comfortable,” he said. “The same terminology, just hearing it a year and being involved in it a year and just talking with him about things that I see on the field, what I don’t see, and just hearing his take on plays. It’s a team effort — it’s not just me doing it myself — it’s everybody involved, and everyone is talking about their plans, and what they’re seeing out there on the field or in the film room.” Only seven players in NFL history have won three MVP Awards, including Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Aaron Rodgers. But Jackson knows it’s also only October. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ex-Ravens OLB Tyus Bowser discusses $4.5 million grievance against team Baltimore Ravens | Ravens mostly healthy, Buccaneers have crowded injury report ahead of ‘Monday Night Football’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens practice, October 17, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers betting guide: Picks, predictions and odds for Week 7 matchup Baltimore Ravens | Staff picks for Week 7 of 2024 NFL season: Texans vs. Packers, Chiefs vs. 49ers and more Another high-octane opponent awaits this week against the Buccaneers in Tampa. The are still 10 more games to navigate, including many against AFC North rivals as well as a Christmas showdown against the Texans in Houston. He’s heard the hype and the MVP talk before, none of which means a whole lot to him unless he’s hoisting a Super Bowl trophy at the end of the season. “I know how it feels to be 0-2,” said Jackson, who has a 2-4 record in the postseason. “I really don’t care about the hype — not just being 0-2 — I just know how the NFL works. It’s ‘Any Given Sunday.’ So, I’m not going to dwell on an MVP trophy or anything like that — I never have. Even when I won it, I never dwelled on it. It was just about me trying to win each and every game I’m in, and same thing now. “I’m still trying to win these games to get to February and win in February.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Wide receiver-kick returner Deonte Harty, defensive lineman Brent Urban and linebacker Malik Harrison were the only Ravens absent from Thursday’s practice, days out from the team’s third of five prime-time games this season. Monday night, Baltimore kicks off at 8:15 p.m. against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers are coming off a 51-point outburst against the New Orleans Saints while the Ravens are riding a four-game winning streak. Harty (knee) wound up on the injury report last Wednesday as a limited participant. He was full go last Thursday and Friday, then played into the fourth quarter against the Washington Commanders, returning two kicks and one punt. He did not participate this Thursday. Urban, who also played through the majority of Sunday’s win, did not practice because of illness. Harrison (groin) played in each of Baltimore’s first five games but missed practice all of last week and did not participate to open this week. Cornerback Arthur Maulet (hamstring/knee) and defensive lineman Broderick Washington (knee) both returned in limited capacity after missing Sunday’s win over the Commanders. Maulet made a limited appearance at practice Oct. 2 leading up to the Ravens traveling to Cincinnati for Week 5. Coach John Harbaugh said earlier this week there was a good chance that the veteran defensive back would be on the field this week, but it’s wait-and-see if he’ll be a full go Monday night. Maulet played in 14 games last season, recording 37 tackles, two sacks and one interception, but was sidelined by arthroscopic knee surgery and later had a “soft-tissue setback.” Washington would be a welcome addition to Baltimore’s defensive line. Pass rush coach Chuck Smith wore a wide smile calling over to Washington as he made his way back onto the practice field. The 2020 fifth-round draft pick appeared in each of the Ravens’ first five games, recording four tackles while playing 39% of the defensive snaps. Washington then missed all three practices last week. Rookie running back Rasheen Ali (ankle), who made his NFL regular-season debut Sunday and played on special teams, was limited. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ex-Ravens OLB Tyus Bowser discusses $4.5 million grievance against team Baltimore Ravens | As Lamar Jackson MVP hype heats up again, Ravens QB wants to ‘win in February’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens practice, October 17, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Buccaneers betting guide: Picks, predictions and odds for Week 7 matchup Baltimore Ravens | Staff picks for Week 7 of 2024 NFL season: Texans vs. Packers, Chiefs vs. 49ers and more Tampa Bay’s first injury report of the week is more than twice as long as Baltimore’s. Among those who did not practice were wide receiver Mike Evans (hamstring), cornerback Jamel Dean (hamstring), tight end Payne Durham (calf) and receiver Kameron Johnson (ankle). Center Graham Barton (hamstring), outside linebacker Chris Braswell (shoulder), defensive lineman William Gholston (knee), defensive back Christian Izien (elbow/groin), wide receiver Rakim Jarrett (knee), receiver Trey Palmer (concussion), running back Rachaad White (foot) and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. (foot) were all limited. That list includes five starters and several key contributors for the NFC South co-leaders. Evans, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, is second on the team with 25 catches for 310 yards and five touchdowns this season. White missed last week’s game against the Saints and has been outplayed by rookie Bucky Irving but is still a pass-catching threat out of the backfield. Winfield, a 2021 All-Pro, returned last week to help reinforce the secondary, though Dean was injured in Sunday’s loss. Barton has been the starting center since being drafted in the first round in April, while Braswell, Gholston and Izien have been part of the rotation on defense. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Baltimore Ravens executive vice president and general manager Eric DeCosta walks with head football coach John Harbaugh during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens head football coach John Harbaugh during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Josh Johnson passes during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Josh Johnson rolls out during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry catches the ball during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson passes during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Roquan Smith listens to outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson listens to offensive coordinator Todd Monken during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Roquan Smith catches a ball during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Marcus Williams catches the ball above cornerback Marlon Humphrey during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Marcus Williams during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson emerges from the shadows as fall foliage show their peak colors during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Marcus Williams catches the football during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers stretches during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman catches the ball during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry speaks to the media during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry speaks to the media during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson speaks to the media during team practice before their NFL Monday Night Football game against the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) View the full article

Ravens fans have to wait one extra day to see their favorite squad in action this week, as Baltimore (4-2) faces Tampa Bay (4-2) on “Monday Night Football.” The wait could be well worth it, as John Harbaugh’s team is favored to pick up its fifth consecutive win. FanDuel lists Baltimore as a 3 1/2-point favorite over Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers. It’s the sixth game out of seven this season in which the Ravens will enter the contest favored. The Ravens have only been the underdog once this year, entering the season opener as a small underdog against the Chiefs, who won, 27-20. The Ravens have won four consecutive games, covering the spread in each of the four contests. Baltimore’s offense has led its recent charge, with the Ravens leading the NFL in offensive DVOA and yards per game. What are the odds? Baltimore enters the game as a short favorite, and the total is hovering around 50 points. Spread: Ravens -3 1/2 points on FanDuel Total: 49.5 points Moneyline: Ravens -198, Buccaneers +168 Both Tampa Bay and Baltimore have performed well against the spread this season, as the Buccaneers are 4-2 and the Ravens are 3-2-1, according to Vegas Insider. Combined, the squads are 7-4-1 ATS this fall. Each team’s games have skewed higher scoring, with nine of their 12 games this season going over the estimated point total. Another shootout? Tampa Bay is a good team, and wide receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans should test Baltimore’s inconsistent secondary. Still, the Buccaneers have struggled at times defensively. They rank seventh-worst in the NFL in yards allowed per game, and they’ve had a few jarring defensive showings. Kirk Cousins threw for over 500 yards in a Falcons win over the Bucs. The Lions posted 463 yards of offense in a narrow loss to Tampa Bay. Even the Saints — led by special teams magic — scored 27 points against Tampa Bay last weekend. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Staff picks for Week 7 of 2024 NFL season: Texans vs. Packers, Chiefs vs. 49ers and more Baltimore Ravens | How Ravens went from 0-2 and a season seemingly on the brink to one of NFL’s best Baltimore Ravens | 10 stats that have defined the Ravens’ season through 6 games Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s report card: Position-by-position grades for Ravens’ 4-2 start | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Should the Ravens make a move ahead of NFL trade deadline? Here’s who they might target. Yet, most sportsbooks available in Maryland list Baltimore’s team total at 26.5 points for Monday’s game. Baltimore averages an NFL-best 453.7 yards per game and 29.5 points per game, which is third-best in the league. What makes the Ravens so dangerous offensively is the team’s array of playmakers. It starts with Lamar Jackson at quarterback, but running back Derrick Henry leads the NFL in rushing and wide receiver Zay Flowers is coming off consecutive 100-yard performances. Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews are both solid blocking tight ends with good hands, and Rashod Bateman is stepping up as the team’s No. 2 wide receiver. Even backup running back Justice Hill has flummoxed defenses with his receiving skills at times this season. If you try to stop Henry and the running game (good luck), can you do so without weakening coverage on Flowers, Bateman and the tight ends? Baltimore seemingly has too many weapons to stop for a full 60 minutes, and the unit is orchestrated by a two-time NFL Most Valuable Player in Jackson. The Buccaneers’ offensive playmakers are legitimate, too, though. Quarterback Baker Mayfield leads the NFL in passing touchdowns with 15, including a four-touchdown performance last week against New Orleans. Tampa Bay can hang in this game because of its offense, but the defense should yield plenty of points. I expect a high-scoring game, and I’m particularly bullish on Baltimore eclipsing 26.5 points against a defense ranked in the bottom five of the NFL in run defense and tackling, according to Pro Football Focus grades. Best bet: Ravens over 26.5 points (-118 odds on DraftKings) Have a news tip? Contact Bennett Conlin at bconlin@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/BennettConlin. View the full article

Baltimore Sun staff writers pick every game of the NFL season. Here’s who they have winning in Week 7: Denver Broncos at New Orleans Saints (Thursday, 8:15 p.m.) Brian Wacker (14-0 last week; 61-31 overall): Saints Childs Walker (13-1 last week; 54-38 overall): Broncos Mike Preston (14-0 last week; 55-37 overall): Broncos C.J. Doon (11-3 last week; 54-38 overall): Broncos Tim Schwartz (12-2 last week; 60-32 overall): Broncos Bennett Conlin (11-3 last week; 51-41 overall): Broncos New England Patriots at Jacksonville Jaguars (Sunday, 9:30 a.m.) Wacker: Jaguars Walker: Jaguars Preston: Jaguars Doon: Patriots Schwartz: Jaguars Conlin: Jaguars Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Falcons Walker: Falcons Preston: Falcons Doon: Seahawks Schwartz: Seahawks Conlin: Falcons Tennessee Titans at Buffalo Bills (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Bills Walker: Bills Preston: Bills Doon: Bills Schwartz: Bills Conlin: Bills Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Bengals Walker: Bengals Preston: Bengals Doon: Bengals Schwartz: Bengals Conlin: Bengals Houston Texans at Green Bay Packers (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Packers Walker: Packers Preston: Texans Doon: Packers Schwartz: Packers Conlin: Texans Miami Dolphins at Indianapolis Colts (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Colts Walker: Colts Preston: Colts Doon: Dolphins Schwartz: Colts Conlin: Colts Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Lions Walker: Lions Preston: Lions Doon: Lions Schwartz: Vikings Conlin: Vikings Philadelphia Eagles at New York Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Eagles Walker: Eagles Preston: Eagles Doon: Eagles Schwartz: Eagles Conlin: Giants Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Rams (Sunday, 4:05 p.m.) Wacker: Rams Walker: Rams Preston: Rams Doon: Rams Schwartz: Rams Conlin: Rams Carolina Panthers at Washington Commanders (Sunday, 4:05 p.m.) Wacker: Commanders Walker: Commanders Preston: Commanders Doon: Commanders Schwartz: Commanders Conlin: Commanders Kansas City Chiefs at San Francisco 49ers (Sunday, 4:25 p.m.) Wacker: Chiefs Walker: 49ers Preston: Chiefs Doon: 49ers Schwartz: Chiefs Conlin: Chiefs Related Articles NFL | Baltimore Police investigating video of man in Ravens jersey assaulting Commanders fans in Federal Hill NFL | Maryland sets monthly sports betting tax revenue record in September NFL | Some fans frustrated by light rail crowds after Baltimore events, but many still ride NFL | Meet Tini Younger, a social media chef and Ravens fan with over 9 million followers NFL | Mike Preston: ‘How did they lose to the Raiders?’ | VIDEO New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers (Sunday, 8:20 p.m.) Wacker: Jets Walker: Steelers Preston: Steelers Doon: Jets Schwartz: Jets Conlin: Steelers Los Angeles Chargers at Arizona Cardinals (Monday, 9 p.m.) Wacker: Chargers Walker: Chargers Preston: Chargers Doon: Chargers Schwartz: Chargers Conlin: Chargers View the full article