ExtremeRavens

Here’s what The Baltimore Sun sports staff had to say immediately after the Ravens’ 28-6 win over the Miami Dolphins in Week 9 of the NFL season on Thursday night at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida: Brian Wacker, reporter Lamar Jackson looked like his old self, tormenting the Dolphins’ defense once more. It wasn’t a perfect passer rating again, but it was close. Add Miami’s self-inflicted wounds and an inability to penetrate a Ravens defense that has been strengthening in recent weeks and it was a recipe for disaster. The score was just 14-6 at the half, but the game already felt over. Then it was with Jackson completing his first nine passes of the second half to help Baltimore pull away. Alohi Gilman’s strip in the first half half played no small part and Malaki Starks’ interception in the final quarter put a bow on another much-needed victory. This one was never in doubt. Mike Preston, columnist This game went pretty much as expected. The Ravens got off to a slow start both offensively and defensively in the first quarter, but they owned the Dolphins in the second half. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken did a nice job with quarterback Lamar Jackson, having him throw short passes in the first quarter and then allowing him to go downfield. The Ravens’ defense still gives up too many yards, and they might struggle once they face a good team with a strong passing game. But that won’t happen any time soon. The Ravens have Minnesota, Cleveland and the New York Jets during the next three weeks, so that should be three more wins if they take care of business and avoid turnovers. The Vikings have good receivers, but the quarterback play is questionable. I like the Ravens having to play with an edge, and the thought that if they lost another game, that might knock them out of the postseason. That’s probably not true in the weak AFC North, but at least that should keep them sharp heading into the postseason. Josh Tolentino, columnist At last, the Ravens finally looked like the contender they entered the season hyped to be. Thursday night’s victory in Miami represented Baltimore’s most complete performance of the season. It also was the team’s second win in five days, a difficult task for any NFL team regardless of the competition. Lamar Jackson’s return helped spark an offense that already entered the first of three straight road games with surging momentum. The Ravens still have lingering issues with containing the run and applying consistent pressure, but their dominance across other departments more than made up for those deficiencies. The team’s acquisition of Alohi Gilman only continues to pay dividends. The safety generated the first of three takeaways with his forced fumble and recovery, and he continues to allow college teammate Kyle Hamilton to play freely across the line of scrimmage. Buckle up. The Ravens are healthy and looking dangerous with one of the NFL’s easiest schedules to finish the season. Sam Cohn, reporter Miami played itself out of this game. Tua Tagovailoa looked lost. A false start penalty set up a missed field goal attempt. Ollie Gordon fell down and was flagged for tripping. Questionable decisions stalled out one Dolphins drive after another. But there were positive signs in this convincing Ravens win. Most noticeable was Jackson’s second half, in which he operated the offense like his old self. And the defense forced three turnovers, a new season high despite an offseason spent hammering home its importance. A win is a win and two in a row is technically a winning streak, which inches Baltimore closer to its long-term goals. Taylor Lyons, reporter We knew Lamar Jackson’s return would breathe new life into a Ravens offense that, before last week, was a dreadful watch with him out. But, man, was it fun to see the two-time MVP again. Jackson’s return helped the Ravens cruise past the lowly Dolphins, but they should have their sights set on more with a roster nearing perfect health. Baltimore could be just one game back of the AFC North lead after this week (Pittsburgh plays the first-place Colts on Sunday) after it felt like the season might be over just a couple of weeks ago. The team knew it could go on a run with Jackson back because the hope he inspires is unlike almost every other player in football — there’s no reason the Ravens shouldn’t have a winning record soon. Before any of that, though, is Tuesday’s trade deadline, when general manager Eric DeCosta must decide between trying to accelerate this turnaround or staying the course. C.J. Doon, editor This game pretty much reaffirmed something we already know: When Lamar Jackson plays, the Ravens easily beat up on mediocre opponents. That should continue for a few more weeks until a pivotal showdown against the Steelers in early December. By that time, the Ravens should be 7-5 and perhaps in line to take the lead in the AFC North. They’re already considered the favorites to win the division and just picked up their third victory in Week 9. What a weird season. That 1-5 start already feels like a distant memory. Those losses all came against division winners from last season, a brutal stretch that any team would struggle against, let alone one without its two-time MVP for an extended period. That’s not to say it doesn’t matter, but at this point … does it really matter? All the Ravens need to do now is win the games they’re favored to win (likely all of them depending on what the Patriots and Packers look like late in the season) and get to the playoffs with Jackson healthy. We’ve seen enough teams get hot at the right time and make a deep playoff run, regardless of record. Maybe it’s actually a silver lining to have the team locked in starting in November as opposed to cruising through the regular season before trying to ratchet up the intensity in the playoffs. This early season adversity might make Baltimore better in the long run. Tim Schwartz, editor Lamar Jackson’s return and facing a pathetic Dolphins team is just what the doctor ordered. Jackson wasn’t his usual dynamic self but he didn’t need to be. He makes everyone around him better by the way he works a pocket and gives receivers time to get open. Sometimes, that’s all you need. Defensively, the trade for Alohi Gilman is bearing fruit because it allows Kyle Hamilton to do what he does best — play in the box and blow up plays in the backfield. Nobody in the NFL does it better from the safety position. But Miami is not a good football team, and it was still a game in the first half. Fortunately for the Ravens, their schedule is as soft as it can get. Now 3-5, Baltimore is shaping up to go on that run we all expected would happen at some point. Better late than never. Bennett Conlin, editor That Lamar Jackson fella is mighty good at football. And the Dolphins, well, they stink. This looked like the Ravens team we expected to see before the season started. The defense looked competent, and the offense looked great after halftime. That’s what this Baltimore team should be against woeful opponents. And I understand that the Ravens aren’t judged by beating bad teams at this point in Jackson’s career. They need a Super Bowl. But as an unbiased observer, this season is cinematic. The greatest quarterback on the planet — or at least one of the three best — must lead his team to the playoffs (and maybe a championship) from a 1-5 start. If Jackson is truly among the best players to ever compete in the NFL, then he should be capable of leading Baltimore to a deep playoff run given the remaining schedule. The AFC isn’t that strong this year, either. If Baltimore can rally to make the playoffs, its Super Bowl dreams are far from dead. Jackson looked like a guy who can put a franchise on his back Thursday. What else does No. 8 have in store this season? Who knows, but it’s must-see TV. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

The Ravens (2-5) and now-healthy quarterback Lamar Jackson return to primetime for “Thursday Night Football” against the host Miami Dolphins (2-6). Kickoff is 8:15 p.m. on Prime Video and televised locally on ABC (WMAR). Follow along here for live coverage and analysis. View the full article

Baltimore Sun staff writers and FOX45’s Patrice Sanders pick every game of the NFL season. Here’s who they have winning in Week 9: Chicago Bears vs. Cincinnati Bengals (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Brian Wacker (8-4 last week, 84-35-1 overall): Bears Sam Cohn (10-2 last week, 84-35-1 overall): Bengals Mike Preston (8-4 last week, 82-37-1 overall): Bengals Josh Tolentino (9-3 last week, 83-36-1 overall): Bengals C.J. Doon (8-4 last week, 77-42-1 overall): Bengals Bennett Conlin (8-4 last week, 78-41-1 overall): Bears Tim Schwartz (9-3 last week, 71-48-1 overall): Bears Patrice Sanders (9-3 last week, 72-45-1 overall): Bears Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Lions Cohn: Lions Preston: Lions Tolentino: Lions Doon: Lions Conlin: Lions Schwartz: Lions Sanders: Lions Carolina Panthers vs. Green Bay Packers (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Packers Cohn: Packers Preston: Packers Tolentino: Packers Doon: Packers Conlin: Packers Schwartz: Packers Sanders: Packers Denver Broncos vs. Houston Texans (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Broncos Cohn: Broncos Preston: Broncos Tolentino: Broncos Doon: Broncos Conlin: Texans Schwartz: Broncos Sanders: Broncos Atlanta Falcons vs. New England Patriots (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Patriots Cohn: Patriots Preston: Patriots Tolentino: Patriots Doon: Patriots Conlin: Patriots Schwartz: Patriots Sanders: Patriots San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: 49ers Cohn: 49ers Preston: 49ers Tolentino: 49ers Doon: 49ers Conlin: 49ers Schwartz: 49ers Sanders: Giants Indianapolis Colts vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Colts Cohn: Colts Preston: Colts Tolentino: Colts Doon: Colts Conlin: Colts Schwartz: Colts Sanders: Colts Los Angeles Chargers vs. Tennessee Titans (Sunday, 1 p.m.) Wacker: Chargers Cohn: Chargers Preston: Chargers Tolentino: Chargers Doon: Chargers Conlin: Chargers Schwartz: Chargers Sanders: Chargers New Orleans Saints vs. Los Angeles Rams (Sunday, 4:05 p.m.) Wacker: Rams Cohn: Rams Preston: Rams Tolentino: Rams Doon: Rams Conlin: Rams Schwartz: Rams Sanders: Rams Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Las Vegas Raiders (Sunday, 4:05 p.m.) Wacker: Jaguars Cohn: Jaguars Preston: Jaguars Tolentino: Jaguars Doon: Raiders Conlin: Jaguars Schwartz: Jaguars Sanders: Jaguars Kansas City Chiefs vs. Buffalo Bills (Sunday, 4:25 p.m.) Wacker: Chiefs Cohn: Chiefs Preston: Chiefs Tolentino: Chiefs Doon: Chiefs Conlin: Bills Schwartz: Bills Sanders: Chiefs Seattle Seahawks vs. Washington Commanders (Sunday, 8:20 p.m.) Wacker: Seahawks Cohn: Seahawks Preston: Seahawks Tolentino: Seahawks Doon: Seahawks Conlin: Seahawks Schwartz: Seahawks Sanders: Seahawks Arizona Cardinals vs. Dallas Cowboys (Monday, 8:15 p.m.) Wacker: Cowboys Cohn: Cowboys Preston: Cowboys Tolentino: Cowboys Doon: Cowboys Conlin: Cowboys Schwartz: Cowboys Sanders: Cowboys Have a news tip? Contact sports editor Tim Schwartz at timschwartz@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/timschwartz13. View the full article

Before Sunday, the New York Times’ simulation calculator gave the Ravens a 34% chance to make the playoffs — better odds than many clear-minded NFL fans might have guessed considering history’s warning of a 1-5 start. A win versus Chicago, plus losses to the other three AFC North teams in Week 8, bumped their odds to what is now 59%. If the Ravens get out of Miami on Thursday night with a win, which would improve them to 3-5, 4,000 simulations have Baltimore reaching the postseason two out of three times. One could argue it’s a big game. Every game is for a team scaling out of the NFL’s abyss. Who will have the advantage Thursday night in South Florida? Ravens passing game vs. Dolphins pass defense This week, Lamar Jackson addressed reporters for the first time in a month. He spoke for nine minutes, answering more than two dozen questions. Rehashing the hamstring injury was a thread he quickly soured on. The two-time NFL Most Valuable Player’s eyes are pointed forward on the need to kick-start a win streak. “I’m ready to go,” he said, eager to “touch the grass with my guys. It’s been a while.” Through 3 1/2 games, Jackson threw 10 touchdowns with one interception. Despite a few stalled-out drives and goal-line shortcomings, the Ravens, under Jackson, owned the league’s top-scoring offense. He doesn’t foresee the need to shed any rust. Jackson said he’s ready to pick up right where he left off. The Dolphins, meanwhile, rank in the bottom 10 in yards per game (344.4) and points per game (26.9) with a secondary eviscerated by injuries. All five safeties on Miami’s roster are dealing with injuries to varying degrees. And since the preseason, five Dolphins cornerbacks have sustained season-ending injuries. “Worry isn’t going to do me any good,” Miami defensive coordinator and former Ravens assistant Anthony Weaver told local reporters. “We’ve got to find a way to get it done.” A rejuvenated offense with its back against the wall isn’t a good matchup for a banged-up defense on a short week. EDGE: Ravens Dolphins passing game vs. Ravens pass defense Days before the Dolphins beat the Falcons, Miami coach Mike McDaniel had to clarify that Tua Tagovailoa, who signed a hefty four-year, $212.4 million contract extension in July 2024, was still their starting quarterback. Tagovailoa was benched the week before against Cleveland, the latest checkpoint in a confounding season. His 10 interceptions are tied for the worst mark in football. He’s also top-eight in touchdown passes (8). Tagovailoa has the fifth-best completion percentage among quarterbacks with at least 250 plays. But his expected points added per play is a fat zero, slightly worse than Chicago’s Caleb Williams. Baltimore’s pass defense seems to have found a groove. Nate Wiggins is playing some of his best football. And newly acquired safety Alohi Gilman allows for the three-safety look that the Ravens thrive in, pushing Hamilton into the box. The Ravens are still one of five teams allowing more than 250 passing yards per game, but the past two games showed signs of progress. Thursday night will come down to whether they can quiet Jaylen Waddle. Perhaps more importantly, can the defense with only two interceptions this year snag one from the quarterback averaging more than one a game? EDGE: Ravens Ravens running game vs. Dolphins run defense “I know y’all seen that block [Patrick Ricard] had on 53,” Jackson said, when asked about returning their All-Pro fullback. “It’s self-explanatory.” After missing the first six games rehabbing a calf injury, Ricard made his presence felt in his season debut. He pancaked a Chicago linebacker and drew enough attention in the running game that it opened up new avenues for Baltimore’s air raid. Five players ran the ball. Three of them went over 40 yards. Collectively, they averaged 5.1 yards per carry, their highest single-game mark since Week 4. Before beating the Falcons on Sunday, the Dolphins owned the worst rushing defense in football, allowing 159.3 yards per game. Seven of their first eight opponents rushed for at least 100 yards. They slowed down Atlanta’s Bijan Robinson because their game plan centered around one of the league’s top backs. With Henry, Jackson and Keaton Mitchell’s handful of breakout runs, there’s far more to account for with Baltimore. EDGE: Ravens Dolphins running game vs. Ravens run defense Miami is pivoting off a previous tendency. It used to lean heavily on one primary back, like Raheem Mostert or De’Von Achane. Against the Falcons, three uniquely qualified backs got nine or more carries. McDaniel said he thought mixing it up was “a little underrated.” The Ravens have been one of the worst run-stoppers in the NFL since multiple injuries decimated their defensive front. Even though the Rams and Bears failed to get their ground game going, it could be Miami’s best shot at moving the ball and owning time of possession, which has been a deciding factor in each of the Ravens’ losses. EDGE: Dolphins Ravens inside linebacker Roquan Smith, shown practicing in June, had 12 tackles in a Week 8 win over the Bears. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Ravens special teams vs. Dolphins special teams Ravens punter Jordan Stout deserves a moment of appreciation. The 2022 fourth-round pick is quietly having the best season of his career. His 49.9 yards per punt rank sixth in the NFL, a tick better than Miami’s Jake Bailey. And his 45.9 net yards per attempt are third, a half-yard behind right behind Bailey. Nate Wiggins’ game-defining interception versus Chicago was set up by Stout pinning the Bears at their own 4-yard line. He’s dropped a punt inside an opponent’s 20-yard line in all but two games. He’s done it twice in three contests, and so had Bailey. Thursday night surely won’t come down to the punters, but a well-placed boot could set up a game-defining moment. And both of these punters are capable of being that catalyst. EDGE: Dolphins Ravens intangibles vs. Dolphins intangibles Remember 2022? The Ravens clung to a three-touchdown lead, which most metrics say practically guarantees a win. But a miraculous Miami comeback and a head-scratching Baltimore collapse accounted for the organization’s largest blown lead since 1997. While that game wasn’t a talking point with players or coaches this week, it lingers in the background like a gnarly stench everyone is trying to ignore. The Ravens have already used up most of the losses they’re allowed with a chance to still reach the postseason. Capitalizing on beating an overmatched Dolphins team is a requirement to meet their long-term goals. Related Articles Staff picks for Week 9 of 2025 NFL season: Chiefs vs. Bills, Seahawks vs. Commanders and more Ravens vs. Dolphins staff picks: Who will win Thursday night in Miami? Ravens injury report: Lamar Jackson, team healthy for prime time vs. Miami Watch ‘Overtime’ of Ep. 9 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law Chicago Bears sign ‘fiery’ C.J. Gardner-Johnson to bolster their banged-up secondary “This is the National Football League. If you don’t come ready to play, and clearly we were not today, these things can happen,” Falcons coach Raheem Morris told reporters after being upset by the Dolphins this week. “Sundays you can be humbled, and today was one of those days.” The Ravens, who are prone to one or two quirky, humbling Sundays each season, can’t afford a repeat Thursday night. EDGE: Ravens Prediction Last week, most pundits pegged the Ravens to beat the Bears right up until Jackson was ruled out. Then they flopped, because he means that much. Baltimore pulled off a season-saving win in convincing fashion, nonetheless. The Dolphins are a worse football team than the Bears, Jackson will officially be back under center, this game matters just as much as last week to Baltimore’s long-term goals, and it’s being played in South Florida, a home game for Jackson and Zay Flowers. The Ravens should have no problem beating the short-week allegations and taking care of business. Ravens 31, Dolphins 14 Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn.x.com. View the full article

Here’s how The Baltimore Sun sports staff views the outcome of Thursday night’s Week 9 game between the Ravens and Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida: Brian Wacker, reporter Ravens 27, Dolphins 13: These are two teams that finally ended significant losing streaks with resounding victories last week, but Baltimore feels much better positioned to continue that momentum. Lamar Jackson’s return ratchets up a Ravens offense that has found its footing in the running game the past couple of games, and while there could be some rust in his first action in more than a month, the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player is a major upgrade in the passing attack and has usually delivered in prime time. Miami’s defense has also been exploited on the ground and through the air this season, while its offense is without the injured Tyreek Hill and De’Von Achane against a seemingly resurgent Ravens defense. This should be a comfortable victory. Sam Cohn, reporter Ravens 31, Dolphins 14: For the first time since maybe the beginning of the season, there’s genuine confidence that the Ravens are both the better team on paper and can perform that way come game day. They’re healthy and, most importantly, Jackson is back under center. Miami’s defense has been one of the worst in the NFL this season. And, despite a surprisingly strong showing versus Atlanta, this short week poses a tough challenge against an inspired Ravens offense. As Brian mentioned, the Dolphins are without two superstars on offense. All five safeties on their roster are dealing with injuries and several cornerbacks have been shut down for the season. If the Ravens are who they say they are, this shouldn’t be competitive past halftime. Mike Preston, columnist Ravens 31, Dolphins 18: Miami has the No. 23 rushing attack in the NFL, averaging 98.5 yards per game, and owns the No. 28 run defense, allowing an average of 145 yards. Translation: If you can’t run or stop the run, you can’t win on the college and high school levels, much less the NFL. Plus, the Dolphins have quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who’s good for a bunch of turnovers. If the Ravens don’t win this game, then they shouldn’t go to the playoffs. The Dolphins are terrible, and their coach, Mike McDaniel, is soon to be fired. Josh Tolentino, columnist Ravens 24, Dolphins 21: Lamar Jackson’s return should instantly spark a Ravens offense that’s looked stagnant without the two-time NFL MVP, last Sunday’s Tyler Huntley-led win being the lone exception. Jackson, though, will need to avoid the high sack rate that plagued him before his injury, and how he moves around in and outside the pocket will be a key factor in his effectiveness. Defensively, Baltimore’s pass rush has yet to find any real rhythm. The front seven and edges haven’t consistently married pressure with its pass coverage, which makes Thursday’s matchup particularly spooky against a Dolphins offense that thrives on speedy options and especially when Tua Tagovailoa stays upright. The Ravens have generated takeaways in consecutive games, but they’re still searching for more game-changing moments; rising cornerback Nate Wiggins owns both of the team’s interceptions this season. Baltimore is 0-2 on the road, although John Harbaugh has never started a season 0-3 in away contests. Expect a tighter game than most anticipate, but Jackson’s presence should steady the visitors sideline as Baltimore escapes the Week 8 matchup at Hard Rock Stadium to build its first win streak of the season. C.J. Doon, editor Ravens 33, Dolphins 13: This could finally be the moment for Ravens fans to sit back and relax. Lamar Jackson is back and is sure to put on a show before friends and family in his native South Florida. The Dolphins are severely banged up on defense, especially in the secondary, which means we could see a repeat of Jackson’s 2019 performance against Miami that featured a perfect passer rating. The Dolphins showed some fight in beating the Falcons last week and have played the Bills, Patriots and Chargers tough, but that offense is far less intimidating without Tyreek Hill on the field. And while Tua Tagovailoa has had success against this Ravens defense before, Baltimore is much healthier and improved following its 1-5 start. Related Articles Ravens injury report: Lamar Jackson, team healthy for prime time vs. Miami Watch ‘Overtime’ of Ep. 9 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law Chicago Bears sign ‘fiery’ C.J. Gardner-Johnson to bolster their banged-up secondary This motivational speaker gave the Ravens an impassioned bye-week speech Ravens QB Lamar Jackson explains timing of return: ‘Only I know my body’ Bennett Conlin, editor Ravens 38, Dolphins 17: This feels like a possible statement game for the Ravens, at least internally. Beating the 2-6 Dolphins won’t spark fear into the rest of the NFL, but it could remind Baltimore how dominant it can be when everything clicks into place. The Ravens’ defense is trending in the right direction since adding Alohi Gilman to free up Kyle Hamilton to play closer to the line of scrimmage, and nobody has questions about Todd Monken’s offense when No. 8 is available at quarterback. This could be a blowout. Tim Schwartz, editor Ravens 34, Dolphins 24: Lamar Jackson is back, and so should be the Ravens. They aren’t the Super Bowl favorite they were before they melted down in September and most of October, but they are healthier than they’ve been since before Week 1 and now have Jackson back under center. Against a bad and beat-up Dolphins team, that should be enough. Miami is without several stars on both sides of the ball, so Jaylen Waddle seems like its biggest offensive threat. That won’t be enough. A loss will end the Ravens’ playoff hopes (essentially), so we’ll see what they’re made of. Patrice Sanders, FOX45 Morning News anchor Ravens 31, Dolphins 17: It’s the return of Baltimore’s two-time MVP. When Jackson is playing, the Ravens look like a totally different team. Their winning percentage is pretty high for prime-time games. That, coupled with the fact that every game is like a must-win playoff game at this point, is why I expect the Ravens to do well. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor Tim Schwartz at timschwartz@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/timschwartz13. View the full article

For much of this season, Ravens injury updates have been met with straight-faced or tight-lipped replies by coach John Harbaugh. This week, he was happy to note that all 53 players on the active roster participated in practice for the first time this season. He can feel some relief knowing that they’re all healthy for an important “Thursday Night Football” game in Miami. Quarterback Lamar Jackson returns for his first game since suffering a hamstring injury in Week 4 against Kansas City. He fully participated in two walk-throughs and one full practice on the short week. Jackson said that he’s “ready to go” against the Dolphins. Teammates didn’t notice any rust. “He look like Lamar,” tight end Isaiah Likely said. “I feel like y’all can see the excitement of everybody around.” All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton added that he’s “excited for what we look as a team and our offense” versus Miami. The rest of Baltimore’s injury report shows a clean bill of health. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley (ankle) was upgraded from limited to a full participant Wednesday, which was an estimation for the afternoon walk-through. Linebacker Teddye Buchanan (calf), cornerback T.J. Tampa Jr. (shoulder) and cornerback Nate Wiggins (groin) were all full-go for the second straight day. Miami’s final injury report before the prime-time game offered a bit less clarity. The Dolphins have four regular contributors who are questionable: outside linebacker Bradley Chubb (shoulder/foot), wide receiver Dee Eskridge (shoulder), cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. (hamstring) and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (thumb). Among that group, Chubb was the only one who was limited Wednesday. The other three were listed as full participants. Miami starting tight end Julian Hill was ruled out with an ankle injury. The other six players on the Dolphins’ injury report finished the week without designations, meaning they’ll be ready to play. That list includes quarterback Tua Tagovailoa along with former McDonogh and University of Maryland safety Dante Trader Jr. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn.x.com. Related Articles Ravens vs. Dolphins staff picks: Who will win Thursday night in Miami? Watch ‘Overtime’ of Ep. 9 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law Chicago Bears sign ‘fiery’ C.J. Gardner-Johnson to bolster their banged-up secondary This motivational speaker gave the Ravens an impassioned bye-week speech Ravens QB Lamar Jackson explains timing of return: ‘Only I know my body’ View the full article

Watch the “Overtime” segment of the ninth episode of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law. The longtime sports columnist answers reader questions from Baltimore Sun subscribers after the Ravens improved to 2-5 with a win over the Bears. Baltimore quickly returns to the field, facing Miami on Thursday with quarterback Lamar Jackson expected to play after missing three games with a hamstring injury. Missed the ninth episode of the pod? Watch here. Have a question for Preston about the Ravens? Message us at sports@baltsun.com. You can watch the BMore Football Podcast weekly, posting every Tuesday during the NFL season on YouTube and The Baltimore Sun, and listen on Spotify, Apple, Amazon and iHeart. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

C.J. Gardner-Johnson doesn’t really care what anyone calls his style of play. The Chicago Bears signed the veteran defensive back Wednesday in the hope of shoring up a depleted secondary. Gardner-Johnson comes to Chicago with a reputation for poking the bear, so to speak. Call it antagonistic. Call it instigating. Call it annoying. As far as Gardner-Johnson is concerned, people can call it whatever they like. “I don’t feel like (it’s) instigating on the field, but if you take it that way, it’s just being a fiery player and ready to compete and win,” Gardner-Johnson said Wednesday after his first practice with the Bears. In signing Gardner-Johnson, 27, the Bears signaled they would welcome some of that fire. “It was one of those moves that we felt comfortable with where we’re at as a team right now, where C.J.’s at in his career, that it’s a good fit,” coach Ben Johnson said. Gardner-Johnson had six interceptions last season while starting 16 regular-season games and all four playoff games for the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles. He previously crossed paths with Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in New Orleans and with Johnson in Detroit. In his seventh NFL season, Gardner-Johnson has 18 career interceptions in 77 games. He spent his first three seasons with the Saints (2019-21) before bouncing around with two stints with the Eagles (2022 and ’24), one season with the Lions (2023) and most recently a three-game stint with the Houston Texans this season. The Eagles traded Gardner-Johnson over the offseason to the Texans, who released him in late September. His release came as somewhat of a surprise across the league. He signed with the Ravens practice squad in October but spent only a week in Baltimore. He will join a Bears secondary that is currently without cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon, who are both on injured reserve. Cornerback Tyrique Stevenson also missed last week’s game against the Baltimore Ravens with a shoulder injury, and it’s unclear if he will be back this week. The Bears listed Stevenson as limited in practice Wednesday. With Gordon, the primary nickel corner, sidelined for at least three more games, Ben Johnson confirmed that Gardner-Johnson will focus primarily on the slot. “He’s been with (Allen) and so he should have some familiarity (with the scheme),” Johnson said. “But he’s also bounced around to a few different other systems over the last few years, and so we’ll see how quickly it comes back to him and whether he’ll be ready to go this week or not.” He’ll have three practices to get up to speed before the Bears visit the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. With wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the other side, shoring up the secondary is a big priority this week. Gardner-Johnson never has shied away from talking on the field. Bears fans will remember him for riling up wide receiver Anthony Miller in a January 2021 playoff game to the point Miller threw a punch and was ejected from the 21-9 loss to the Saints. That came only two months after Bears wide receiver Javon Wims also was ejected for throwing a punch at Gardner-Johnson in a regular-season meeting at Soldier Field. Wims received a two-game suspension. Bears wide receiver Javon Wims, right, fights with Saints defensive backs C.J. Gardner-Johnson (22) and Janoris Jenkins (20) on Nov. 1, 2020, at Soldier Field. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh) After the regular-season incident, then-Bears coach Matt Nagy said his team had a meeting ahead of the playoff game devoted entirely to not falling for Gardner-Johnson’s antics — only for Miller to throw a punch at him anyway. The Bears traded Miller the following offseason. It’s a curious addition for the Bears, who have avoided players with a reputation for being antagonistic. Gardner-Johnson is also on his fourth team in a calendar year. Johnson said the Bears did their due diligence by speaking with people who have worked with Gardner-Johnson recently. “We’ve got a very strong locker room,” Johnson said. “We’ve got a positive veteran influence in there. I feel very strongly about that group, and nothing is more important than our locker (room), to be clear with you. That’s certainly first and foremost (with) any decision we make of who we bring in or who we let go. And so we’re all aware of how important that is and the fit that he has with this locker room.” The familiarity with Allen’s scheme was a big draw for Gardner-Johnson. Much of his early NFL success under Allen came when he was playing in the slot. “Really that’s how I started my career,” he said. “Give me a chance to get close to the ball, make plays and make it easier on the guys in the back end. When I’m closer to the ball, Coach (Allen) and Coach Ben know what I can do.” The Bears had an open spot on the roster, which was at 52 players after Tuesday’s moves, so they didn’t need to release anyone to make space for Gardner-Johnson. The Bears also signed offensive lineman Royce Newman and defensive lineman Jonathan Garvin to their practice squad Wednesday. View the full article

The Ravens returned from their bye week 1-5 and on the brink of collapse. They were in dire need of a palate cleanser. So the team invited motivational speaker, Eric Thomas, to the training facility in Owings Mills. Thomas wasted no time calling them out. “The reason why you may not be 5-1 is because you told me you came in at the beginning of the season thinking this was going to be a phenomenal year,” Thomas roared at the only volume a world-renowned speaker and pastor knows. “That’s probably what messed you up.” He held the eyeballs of the entire room. Marlon Humphrey sat in the front row and took notes. Roquan Smith was beside him, his head shadowing the speaker’s every step. Thomas wore a black T-shirt with “You Owe You” written in large, neon text. That’s the name of his new book, but it felt on-the-nose for his message that day. “You probably came in and had a mindset that made some of y’all chill,” he said. “You probably came in and was like, ‘We the Ravens.’ You probably came in and was like, ‘Look what we’ve done.’ You probably came in like, ‘Look who our players are.’ And you probably didn’t focus on what you should’ve been focusing on.” Baltimore was a popular Super Bowl pick and the favorite among sportsbooks in early September. After consecutive years crowned AFC North champions only to be sent home in gutting fashion, this figured to be their year. Instead, the integrity of the entire operation came into question by Week 7. Something was wrong. They phoned Thomas. He has millions of followers across social media platforms and has built international recognition for his passionate talks. Various sports teams at all levels have invited “ETthehiphoppreacher,” including other NFL teams. The Ravens needed some soul-searching, and Thomas was willing to be their guide. “Let’s not focus on the five [losses],” he told them. “Somebody give it to me because I don’t play. … How we gon’ end the season? Some brave soul talk to me.” Cornerback Jaire Alexander, who has only played in two games and dressed for a third, piped up from the front row: “12-5,” he said, implying Baltimore could win the remainder of its regular-season games. Four teams since 1970 have reached the postseason after a 1-5 start. To be the fifth, tight end Isaiah Likely said, their new mantra is “new season, new us.” Thomas came prepared with a slideshow of past teams who have overcome similar setbacks. He showed three teams on the projector. Two of them were the New York Giants. In 2007, they won 10 games and upset the New England Patriots to win the Super Bowl as a wild-card team. In 2012, the Giants finished the regular season 9-7 and hoisted the Lombardi Trophy again with the fewest wins of any NFL championship team. Even the 2000 Ravens, considered one of the greatest defenses in league history and a benchmark for the current team, won the organization’s first title as a wild-card team. “The 1-5 ain’t the problem,” Thomas said. “The mindset is the problem.” Around the eight-minute mark of his speech, which is posted on YouTube, Thomas paused on his lecture differentiating between talent and focus. “Listen to me very closely,” he said, prefacing that it would be OK if he was never invited back, he had to get this next part off his chest. “Somebody pay you to do something, [you do it],” he said, “I’m just being real.” Thomas told the Ravens about how his grandfather never made anyone sign a contract to complete a job. “That’s old school,” he said, smugly. Thomas asked Kyle Hamilton to stand up. Hamilton recently became the NFL’s highest-paid safety and now sat in the second row of this auditorium. Thomas shook his hand. That’s what a promise looked like to his grandfather. And it’s how he challenged the Ravens to meet expectations. When Thomas preached about playing for their reputation, it felt like Ray Lewis was up there delivering the sermon. “It’s time to show up,” Thomas shouted. “Not just in the first [quarter], not just in the second, not in the third, not in the fourth. Man to man, you give me some money, I’m gonna do exactly what I told you I was gon’ do.” That is perhaps a direct reference to Baltimore’s Week 1 collapse versus the Bills, when the Ravens let a 15-point, fourth-quarter lead slip from their grasp. Or in Week 3, when the Ravens and Lions were tied after three quarters and Detroit bullied them in the final frame. The Rams did the bulk of their work in the third quarter, scoring 14 points that separated the final tally. All but two teams this season have scored on their first offensive possession against the Ravens. “From this day forward, you start strong and you finish strong,” Thomas said. “Or don’t come at all.” That inspired energy manifested in a convincing win over the Bears. The Ravens have 10 more regular-season games to prove this season won’t be for naught, torn down because they got ahead of themselves in the first six weeks, assuming, as Thomas said, “this was going to be a phenomenal year.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn.x.com. View the full article

Lamar Jackson is finally, officially back. The Ravens quarterback and two-time NFL Most Valuable Player will start Thursday night against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium in what will be his first game in 33 days. It’s the longest such layoff of his eight-year career after he suffered a hamstring injury in a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 4 last month. Jackson, who spoke with reporters Tuesday for the first time since being out, said that he has never had a hamstring injury before, even dating to high school, and is “extremely excited” to be back. “Can’t wait to touch the grass with my guys,” he said. “Been a while.” Baltimore can’t wait, either. Though the Ravens (2-5) recorded their second win of the season Sunday against the Chicago Bears to end a four-game losing skid, they are just 5-12 in games in which Jackson has not played since he took over as the starting quarterback in 2018. That included six straight losses before backup Tyler Huntley helped lead Baltimore to the 30-16 victory last week. “It’s really true for every player, you really are happy no matter who the player is when they’re out there if they haven’t been out there,” coach John Harbaugh said Tuesday. “But it’s certainly true for your quarterback, certainly true for our quarterback. “He’s our guy. To have him out there is great, it’s exciting.” It’s also much needed with the once-Super Bowl favorites off to a 2-5 start and trailing the AFC North leading Pittsburgh Steelers by two games with 10 weeks remaining. That deficit has led players to take on a focus of every game being a must-win with almost no room for error the rest of the way. “I feel like y’all can see the excitement [of] everybody around,” tight end Isaiah Likely said. “Ya’ll are excited to see him out there, so I can only imagine what ya’ll think we think.” Asked how Jackson has looked in practice after such a long layoff, Likely said, “He look like Lamar.” Before going out in the third quarter of the Chiefs game, Jackson had completed a career-high 71.6% of his passes this season for 869 yards and what was, at the time, an NFL-leading 10 touchdown passes with just one interception. He also rushed for 166 yards and another score on 21 carries. Then came the injury, with Jackson limping off the field. He didn’t return to practice until last week, though was limited in his first two appearances before being listed as “full” on Friday’s injury report. That designation sparked an NFL investigation that remains ongoing because Jackson had only taken scout team reps on Friday and by rule still should have been listed as a limited participant. Jackson said that he didn’t know the exact play that he suffered the injury or whether it was an accumulation of blows, but that he had to be patient before returning. He said he felt a “tugging” early on in the rehabilitation process. He also intimated that the timing of his return ultimately came down to him. “It’s my body,” he said. “Only I know my body. “You don’t wanna rush a hamstring injury back and make it worse and now you’re out for the whole season. Hamstrings can be tricky.” Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson greets teammate Tyler Huntley during a Week 8 win over the Bears. Jackson will return from his hamstring injury Thursday against the Dolphins. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Even before the injury, though, there were questions and criticism from several players of what, through the first month of the season, was an inconsistent offense searching for an identity. Though some had pointed the finger at third-year offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Jackson said that he still has faith in the veteran assistant. “Start of the slow season everybody plays a part in their own way,” he said, adding, “can’t put that on one person.” The one person who makes Baltimore’s offense go more than any other, of course, though, is Jackson. Last season, he threw a career-high 41 touchdown passes and the Ravens became the first team to pass for at least 4,000 yards and rush for at least 3,000 in a season en route to rallying from two games back in the division with a month to play to capture the AFC North. The year before, he won his second league MVP Award and led Baltimore to the AFC championship game. Whether Jackson can salvage this season remains to be seen, but his presence has provided a boost on the field and in the locker room. “It’s great having him back,” safety Kyle Hamilton said. “[Cooper Rush and Huntley] both did a great job supplementing our offense while he was out, but he’s a two-time MVP. Anytime you get somebody like that back, it’s gonna be a big change so I’m excited for what we look as a team and our offense this weekend.” Hope has also sprung anew with players looking at last week’s victory after the bye as a 1-0 start to what is now effectively a 10-game season. “The mantra coming out of the bye was like, ‘New season, new us,’” Likely said. “It’s really just preaching, wiping the slate clean. Whatever happened in the past, let it stay in the past and let’s try to focus on [going] 1-0 every week from this point on.” Related Articles Ravens’ Lamar Jackson says it was his decision to remove locker room games Watch Episode 9 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law Ravens injury report: All 53 players, including QB Lamar Jackson, practice Ravens CB Nate Wiggins makes leap: ‘I’m at the top of my game right now’ Josh Tolentino: Lamar Jackson is back. Time for Ravens to roll. | COMMENTARY That continues Thursday night in Miami Gardens, Florida, about 20 minutes south from where Jackson grew up in Pompano Beach. The game marks his first in South Florida since November 2021 when he had a forgettable performance in a 22-10 loss, also on a Thursday night, against a blitz-heavy Dolphins defense that had him under siege all evening. Jackson completed 26 of 43 passes for 238 yards and just one touchdown while also being held to 39 rushing yards on nine carries. This season, Miami (2-6) and its defense has struggled mightily, ranking 26th in points (26.9) and 23rd in yards per game (344.4). But there remains plenty of familiarity with Jackson through defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, who was Baltimore’s defensive line coach before leaving for Miami in February 2024. With Jackson back, though, optimism is high, both within the organization and for the quarterback. “I feel like we always got a chance to make something happen and we still do,” Jackson said. “We showed that Sunday.” Now they’ll see if they can do it again just a few days later. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Quarterback Lamar Jackson said that he was the sole player responsible for removing the games from the Ravens’ locker room after the team’s slow start. “I told [head equipment manager] Kenico [Hines], I told him to take all the games,” Jackson said Tuesday. “Pingpong, turn the TVs off. If we could have took the TVs out, they would’ve been out too.” Jackson, who suffered a hamstring injury on Sept. 28, a Week 4 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, was injured when he made the request. Gone were the basketball hoop near his locker, the pingpong table, cornhole boards and video game consoles. “I appreciate [Ravens majority owner] Mr. Steve [Bisciotti] for putting that in there for us,” Jackson said. “We had to focus. I wouldn’t say people don’t take the job serious, don’t get me wrong. But I didn’t feel like it was the time for that.” Jackson’s comments cleared up some confusion within the locker room. Several players told The Baltimore Sun that it was the coaches who chose to remove games from the locker room earlier this season. Those players, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak freely without fear of retribution on more pressing issues about the team’s backslide, did not mention Jackson when asked about the removal of perceived distractions. In the days leading up to a crucial game against Chicago, which resulted in the Ravens’ first win in six weeks, coach John Harbaugh disputed The Sun’s reporting. He said that “a couple of veteran players got together and decided they wanted to take that stuff out.” That same afternoon, All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton said “it wasn’t my decision” and that he didn’t notice the changes. “I don’t think it’s that big a deal of whether [the decision came from] players or coaches,” Hamilton said. “I don’t know if that’s really affecting us on the field that much, but if we felt like we needed to do that as a team, then I’m all for it.” In the days after the Ravens beat the Bears, improving to 2-5, veteran cornerback Marlon Humphrey addressed the hot-button issue on his podcast, “The Marlon Humphrey Show.” He alluded that it was the best player on the team who made the call before naming Jackson. “Fun locker room to a not-as-fun,” Humphrey said. “Talk-to-your-locker-mate fun locker room. We don’t need no games up in here. Only games we need to play is out there on the grass and we need to win ’em! Small change. Did that really do anything? Who knows. But we’re 1-0.” Jackson said that the only way those games would make their way back into the locker room is if the team starts winning again. That discussion is a non-starter until at least the summer. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn.x.com. Related Articles Ravens QB Lamar Jackson explains timing of return: ‘Only I know my body’ Watch Episode 9 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law Ravens injury report: All 53 players, including QB Lamar Jackson, practice Ravens CB Nate Wiggins makes leap: ‘I’m at the top of my game right now’ Josh Tolentino: Lamar Jackson is back. Time for Ravens to roll. | COMMENTARY View the full article

Episode 9 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law is here. Preston and Coleman discuss the Ravens’ 30-16 win over the Bears and quarterback Lamar Jackson’s expected return Thursday against the Dolphins. Preston was also joined by Ravens executive vice president Ozzie Newsome during a portion of the podcast. You can watch it weekly, posting every Tuesday during the NFL season on YouTube and The Baltimore Sun, and listen on Spotify, Apple, Amazon and iHeart. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

The Ravens are healthy, for a change. Tuesday afternoon’s practice in Owings Mills, the last before traveling to Miami for a Thursday night matchup against the Dolphins, was a far cry from the hefty injury reports that have plagued Baltimore this season. For the first time this season, all 53 players on the active roster suited up, including the head of the snake, quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson hasn’t played since Week 4 when a hamstring injury sidelined him in a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 28. Cooper Rush lost twice as his replacement then Tyler Huntley led a win over the Bears. The 2-5 Ravens should return their two-time Most Valuable quarterback for another must-win, can’t lose game. “I’m ready to go,” Jackson said Tuesday. He didn’t offer specifics on whether the injury occurred from a single play or built up over time. Trainers told him it would be a few weeks. Jackson said he feels 100% and doesn’t expect needing time to shed any rust. “That’s what practice is for,” he said. Jackson wasn’t eager to speak in great detail about his hamstring beyond that. “That’s in the past,” he said. “I don’t want to keep talking about that.” His eyes are pointed toward the “do-or-die” nature of the rest of Baltimore’s season. Coach John Harbaugh did have one unfortunate injury update. Defensive tackle Broderick Washington, who has been on injured reserve for an ankle injury since late-September, will undergo surgery. Harbaugh said it “came out of the blue” and couldn’t offer any further details. Asked if the surgery would end Washington’s season, Harbaugh said “I’ll have more information soon.” There were a few new names added to Monday’s injury report, which was merely an estimation for a walk-through practice. Veteran left tackle Ronnie Stanley (ankle), rookie linebacker Teddye Buchanan (calf), cornerback Nate Wiggins (groin) and cornerback T.J. Tampa (shoulder) were each listed as limited participants. All four practiced on Tuesday. As a result of a defensive line downtrodden by injury — Nnamdi Madubuike (neck) is ruled out for the year, Tavius Robinson (foot) was placed on injured reserve and Washington’s prolonged absence — Baltimore signed veteran pass rusher Carl Lawson. Harbaugh said it’s possible Lawson is ready to be elevated from the practice squad in time for Thursday. “We were just talking to him about learning the defense,” Harbaugh said. “He felt like he was picking it up quickly and appreciated the way it’s organized. He thought it was something he could learn well. That decision hasn’t been made quite yet. That’s something that we’re still talking about.” This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn.x.com. Related Articles Watch Episode 9 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law Ravens CB Nate Wiggins makes leap: ‘I’m at the top of my game right now’ Josh Tolentino: Lamar Jackson is back. Time for Ravens to roll. | COMMENTARY What discipline could Ravens face over Lamar Jackson injury report snafu? Ravens QB Lamar Jackson expected to play Thursday vs. Dolphins View the full article

Public service announcement to every NFL top wideout, Nate Wiggins wants to guard you. When the Ravens played the Chicago Bears on Sunday, the sophomore cornerback requested the challenge of shadowing former top-10 draft pick, Rome Odunze, who has produced among the best receivers in the NFL this season. Same thing happened in Week 6, when Wiggins went to his coaches mid-week advocating that he should be the one to match up with future Hall of Famer Davante Adams, saying, “I got No. 17 this week, right?” “I’m at the top of my game right now,” Wiggins explained, with some bravado. “I feel like no receiver can match up with me, so why not put me on that guy?” Wiggins wanted Houston’s Nico Collins and held him to 14 yards on two catches. He took the challenge of squaring off across from Detroit’s Amon-Ra St-Brown, who went nowhere versus Wiggins, according to Pro Football Focus. Same with Cleveland’s Jerry Jeudy. Only Odunze got the better of him, at least to start. Chicago’s No. 1 receiver torched Wiggins for 57 yards on four catches in the first quarter. But Wiggins backed up that unimpeachable confidence in Sunday’s win when, in the fourth quarter, he hit a fifth gear to undercut Caleb Williams’ throw intended for Odunze. Wiggins’ second interception of the season (he has the Ravens’ only two picks through seven games) gave Baltimore a huge boost in a critical spot in prime field position. “He made a great break on the play,” Williams said. Two plays later, quarterback Tyler Huntley lofted his only touchdown pass to tight end Charlie Kolar, extending Baltimore’s lead to two scores with about eight minutes to go. Credit Wiggins as the setup man. “He’s a student of the game,” coach John Harbaugh said. “To see it pay off with a big play like that in a critical moment, that’s what guys dream about.” Wiggins stood beside his locker with a bright pink hoodie and blinding chain around his neck. Naturally, the first question was about his interception. Wiggins, as he does responding to any inkling of praise, mentioned “dropping a couple” of would-be interceptions last year. There were at least three and they all still eat at him. Now, All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton said he’s trying to match Wiggins’ pick total. “Share the wealth,” he joked. Harbaugh commended Wiggins for how the Bears went after him early, then “Nate steps up and really put the pedal to the metal and played great football.” Harbaugh admitted of all the position groups he’ll text film to, defensive backs hear from him the most. The longtime coach laughed admitting he blows up Wiggins’ phone perhaps more than anyone. Wiggins is a quick responder. “I’ll tell you,” Harbaugh said, “he is a joy to coach.” Through eight weeks, Wiggins ranks third in passer rating against among all starting cornerbacks (minimum 80% of 334 coverage snaps) behind only Carolina’s Jaycee Horn and New York Giants’ Cor’Dale Flott. Each Ravens win this season has included a Wiggins pick. In Week 2, he grabbed a Joe Flacco overthrow along the sideline and showed off his 4.28-speed on a 60-yard return. Similarly, that put the Ravens offense in prime field position to punch in a touchdown for a more comfortable second-half lead. Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins returns the ball after intercepting a Joe Flacco pass in a Week 2 win over the Browns. Wiggins is the only Ravens defender with an interception this season, and he has two. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Both instances were timely takeaways that helped decide a win, something the Ravens talked all summer about. In the interception category, Wiggins has been the only one to cash in on their promise and its paid dividends come game day. “Everybody is looking to have a guy like Nate,” senior secondary coach Chuck Pagano said recently. “A true No. 1 corner that when you face guys like Adams or whoever — we’re going to face some great ones coming up — the guy is willing, No. 1, and No. 2, he’s got the capability, the athleticism and the skill set to go do it.” Related Articles Ravens’ Lamar Jackson is back. It’s time for Baltimore to roll. | COMMENTARY What discipline could Ravens face over Lamar Jackson injury report snafu? Ravens QB Lamar Jackson expected to play Thursday vs. Dolphins READER POLL: Do you like the Orioles’ hiring of Craig Albernaz as manager? 5 things we learned from the Ravens’ 30-16 win over the Bears This week, veteran linebacker Kyle Van Noy went on his podcast, “The KVN Show,” campaigning for Wiggins to make the Pro Bowl. “He’s turned into CB1 before our eyes,” Van Noy said. Such was the discourse for much of training camp. Outside of a joint practice skirmish and a few rough days, Wiggins put together one of the more impressive camps in Owings Mills. Hamilton projected Wiggins to have the biggest year-over-year jump of anyone on the team. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr told a story about Wiggins insisting on getting reps versus DeAndre Hopkins, a five-time Pro Bowl selection who will one day don a golden jacket. That wasn’t just a practice approach. Wiggins wants all the smoke. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Sound the alarms. The Ravens have reached their turning point. Sure, they didn’t erase all of their issues in Sunday’s 30-16 victory over the Bears, but Baltimore cranked out a needed win, highlighted by Tyler Huntley’s heroics and the defense’s second consecutive strong outing. While the Ravens slammed the door against the Bears, they simultaneously cracked the door open for something that hasn’t existed all season. Momentum. The once-Super Bowl favorites need every bit of it. Franchise quarterback and two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson is expected to return Thursday night in Miami, coach John Harbaugh announced Monday. “I feel very confident,” Harbaugh said. “I would expect Lamar to be out there Thursday night.” Just like that, Superman is back under center, and the outlook of Baltimore’s season shifts again. Yep, more momentum. Jackson’s return comes at a pivotal moment; this week marks the midpoint of the regular season. It’s about time Baltimore (2-5) goes on a roll. The Ravens have spent the past month mostly sinking while navigating one of the worst starts in franchise history. But Tyler Huntley’s impressive fill-in performance Sunday jump started the Ravens to their first win in six weeks. Now, Jackson’s imminent return from a hamstring injury that he suffered in the team’s Week 4 loss at Kansas City offers a rejuvenated bunch an unlimited sense of hope. A perfect run of the table is probably unrealistic, but a surge is absolutely up for grabs. The schedule over the next month — starting Thursday in Miami Gardens — is loaded with winnable games. Baltimore’s next five opponents (Dolphins, Vikings, Browns, Jets and Bengals) all own losing records. Anyone else see a potential 7-5 record heading into a pivotal Week 14 home matchup against Pittsburgh? The AFC North remains wide-open after the Steelers fell to 4-3 with their loss to Green Bay on Sunday night. The Bengals (3-5) also collapsed this weekend in an inexplicable 39-38 loss to the previous winless New York Jets. Meanwhile, the Browns (2-5) have displayed a sturdy defense, but remain one of the league’s go-to laughing stocks given all their quarterback drama this season and in recent years. The pathway to a division title surely remains alive and despite their 2-5 record, many major sportsbooks still listed the Ravens as favorites to win the division as of Monday evening. Ravens quarterback Tyler Huntley reacts after orchestrating a touchdown drive against the Bears. Huntley's solid performance led the Ravens to a much-needed victory before a long stretch of more winnable games. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore handled Chicago this past Sunday because of Huntley, who effectively saved the season. It’s up to Jackson now to return the favor. In the three games that Jackson has started and finished this season, the Ravens scored a whopping 111 points. Baltimore was off to a historic offensive pace, but everything was derailed by injuries and lingering emotional turmoil that paired poorly with one of the league’s toughest opening schedules. Jackson’s on-field presence will provide the Ravens with explosiveness, unpredictability and belief that Baltimore has missed dearly over the past month. Jackson, who is expected to speak to reporters for the first time since Sept. 24 on Tuesday, also is returning to a roster that looks nearly complete. That wasn’t the case over the first stretch, when injuries piled up and key veterans were sidelined. Four of Baltimore’s five losses have come against Super Bowl contenders in Buffalo, Detroit, Kansas City and Los Angeles. Related Articles Ravens CB Nate Wiggins makes leap: ‘I’m at the top of my game right now’ What discipline could Ravens face over Lamar Jackson injury report snafu? Ravens QB Lamar Jackson expected to play Thursday vs. Dolphins READER POLL: Do you like the Orioles’ hiring of Craig Albernaz as manager? 5 things we learned from the Ravens’ 30-16 win over the Bears A victory over the Dolphins would mark Baltimore’s first winning streak of the season. It also could motivate general manager Eric DeCosta to get busy and work the phone lines ahead of next Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline. Adding defensive piece(s) could be top of mind for DeCosta if the Ravens board a happy return flight home from South Florida. Fighting for a top spot in the conference seems unrealistic. That’s a hole too deep to dig out of. But chasing a division crown and an automatic playoff berth remains within reach. The Ravens roster, after all, was touted as one of the best at the start of the season. The team’s depth has been exposed some, but the top-end talent is still present, headlined by Jackson. Jackson’s return to the huddle doesn’t guarantee a special run. But Jackson provides the Ravens with a fighting chance. At this point of a wild season, that’s all you can ask. Have a news tip? Contact Josh Tolentino at jtolentino@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200, x.com/JCTSports and instagram.com/JCTSports. View the full article

Lamar Jackson is expected to start for the Ravens on Thursday night against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium, coach John Harbaugh said following Monday evening’s walk-through practice in Owings Mills. What potential discipline Baltimore could face from the NFL over the handling of the quarterback’s practice participation status last week, however, remains to be seen. Harbaugh said that he has not heard from the league office on the matter and does not know if he will, though the matter remains under review. “When I knew he wasn’t gonna play for sure we just declared him out,” he said. “We were hopeful. There was a chance. I’d say probably there probably was an outside chance, but still had my fingers crossed. And then it came down from that side — and when I said that side I mean the medical side. That’s how it works.” Jackson, who has been sidelined since injuring his hamstring in the third quarter of last month’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead and was listed as a “limited” participant in practice on Wednesday and Thursday of last week, was listed as “full” on Friday’s injury report after taking all the reps on the scout team. The two-time NFL Most Valuable Player did not, however, take any reps with the first-team offense. Per the league’s injury report policy, “Participation on the scout team, no matter how extensive, by a player whose normal repetitions would be with the starter but for his medical condition, would not alter the player’s proper designation as ‘limited participation.’” That change in designation led to an NFL spokesperson saying over the weekend the league will look into the Ravens’ handling of the situation, adding, “The league reviews any matter involving a change to a player’s status.” The spokesperson also told The Baltimore Sun on Monday night that the matter is still ongoing and did not provide a timeline of when the investigation could conclude or what potential penalty could be handed down. However, one recent example provides a potential road map. In December 2023, Falcons coach Arthur Smith was fined $25,000 and the team $75,000 after it was found that Atlanta failed to disclose on its injury report in Week 7 of that year that running back Bijan Robinson was ill with a headache before their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in which he played a significantly lower snap count in the contest. While the Ravens’ situation likely won’t take quite as long to be adjudicated, they could be looking at having to at least pay a significant fine. Baltimore’s snafu also came just days after news broke of a massive sports betting scandal involving the NBA, part of which revolved around player participation in certain games. Following the Ravens’ 30-16 victory over the Bears at M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday, Harbaugh said the injury report situation was an “honest mistake,” that nobody was “trying to hide anything” and “there’s no advantage to be gained with that.” Bears coach Ben Johnson didn’t say afterward how much the revised practice participation impacted the game, but he did say they were preparing for Jackson to play. “Like I said early in the week, we were preparing for Lamar,” Johnson said, “and then when we found out he wasn’t playing, then we get ready for the next guy.” Related Articles Ravens QB Lamar Jackson expected to play Thursday vs. Dolphins READER POLL: Do you like the Orioles’ hiring of Craig Albernaz as manager? 5 things we learned from the Ravens’ 30-16 win over the Bears Mike Preston: Ravens look mediocre, but opponents are worse | COMMENTARY Ravens’ Tyler Huntley provides much-needed stability amid QB uncertainty Tyler Huntley started in place of Jackson and completed 17 of 22 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 53 yards as Baltimore snapped a four-game losing streak. “Obviously, they’re going to do what’s best for the team,” Bears defensive tackle Grady Jarrett told reporters when asked if he had ever seen a quarterback’s practice designation change the day before a game. “I don’t think it was no malice behind any of it. I think it’s just how the league goes.” Chicago safety Jaquan Brisker also told reporters that the defensive game plan for Jackson was different than the one for Huntley, but said there were “no excuses.” Should Jackson start Thursday as expected, it would be his first game in more than a month. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Monday’s injury report was just an estimation following a walk-through practice to kick off a truncated week, but it portrays a Ravens team whose stars are getting healthier entering Thursday’s matchup against the 2-6 Dolphins. Lamar Jackson was listed as a full participant on Monday, one day after the quarterback missed his third consecutive game with a hamstring injury, and John Harbaugh said after Monday’s practice that he expects Jackson to play against Miami. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley, linebacker Teddye Buchanan and cornerbacks Nate Wiggins and T.J. Tampa were listed as limited. Buchanan (calf), Wiggins (groin) and Tampa (shoulder) are new additions to the injury report, despite Harbaugh saying Monday that the Ravens got out of Sunday’s win over the Bears without any significant new injuries. Stanley was listed as a full participant this past Wednesday and Thursday with his lingering ankle injury, although Harbaugh said Monday that Stanley was doing well after he briefly exited Sunday’s game. This is the team’s first injury report since the one that has prompted an NFL investigation into the Ravens. On Friday, the last report before the Bears game, Baltimore listed Jackson as a full participant when league rules state he should’ve been designated as limited because he worked with the scout team. Harbaugh said Monday that Jackson’s preparation with the scout team was part of the quarterback’s ramp-up process. Harbaugh said Sunday the faulty designation was “an honest mistake” and “nobody’s trying to hide anything.” Harbaugh added Sunday that he was “hopeful” Jackson would play against the Dolphins and that playing two games in five days would have been difficult for the quarterback. That was a different tune than after the Ravens’ loss to the Los Angeles Rams, when the coach said Jackson “is going to be back” after the bye week. But on Monday, Harbaugh reverted to that same level of optimism. “I feel very confident about it,” the coach said. “I expect him to be out there Thursday.” Tyler Huntley made his first start of the season in place of Jackson and led the Ravens to their first victory in more than a month. The backup threw for 186 yards and one touchdown and didn’t turn the ball over in the 30-16 win over Chicago. Multiple offensive players who spoke to reporters postgame lauded Huntley’s leadership and voiced confidence in the 27-year-old if he’s needed again Thursday, although Harbaugh believes he won’t be. Stanley’s ankle injury kept him out of Baltimore’s Week 5 matchup with the Houston Texans, but he hasn’t missed a game since. The veteran left tackle went down with an injury Sunday and left the field before returning on the offense’s next possession. While Buchanan’s role on defense has expanded in recent weeks and Tampa is a fixture on special teams, no defender listed as limited would be missed more than Wiggins. He secured a critical interception in Sunday’s win when he picked off Bears quarterback Caleb Williams deep in Ravens territory, allowing the Huntley-led offense to score two plays later and regain a two-possession lead in the fourth quarter. The second-year cornerback is perhaps the Ravens’ most improved player on defense this season and boasts an evident confidence in himself, often requesting he cover the opposing team’s top wideout. “I feel like from last year, I grew,” Wiggins said Sunday. “I’m more mature. I feel like I’m at the top of my game right now. I feel like no receiver can match up with me.” The Ravens are playing it safe ahead of “Thursday Night Football.” Practices this week will be light and preparation will be more mental than physical, Harbaugh said. Maintaining health with just four days to recover — and with nearly all of the Ravens’ remaining games carrying more weight than normal — is paramount. Related Articles What discipline could Ravens face over Lamar Jackson injury report snafu? READER POLL: Do you like the Orioles’ hiring of Craig Albernaz as manager? 5 things we learned from the Ravens’ 30-16 win over the Bears Mike Preston: Ravens look mediocre, but opponents are worse | COMMENTARY Ravens’ Tyler Huntley provides much-needed stability amid QB uncertainty The Dolphins shared a more concerning injury report Monday. Linebacker Bradley Chubb (shoulder and foot) was among five Miami players who received “did not participate” designations before Thursday’s prime-time tilt. Safety Ashtyn Davis (quadricep), cornerback Storm Duck (knee), wide receiver Dee Eskridge (shoulder) and tight end Julian Hill (ankle) were also DNPs. Safety ​​Ifeatu Melifonwu (thumb) was listed as limited, while another seven players, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (left thumb and illness) was listed as a full participant. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (thumb) was among the other notable full participants, joining defensive back Elijah Campbell (quadricep), fullback Alec Ingold (neck), cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. (hamstring), safety Dante Trader Jr. (shoulder) and wide receiver Malik Washington (knee). Have a news tip? Contact Taylor Lyons at tlyons@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/TaylorJLyons. View the full article

The Orioles have found their guy. The ballclub on Monday announced it has hired Craig Albernaz, a 42-year-old up-and-comer, to be its new manager. He comes from the Cleveland Guardians, where he spent the 2025 season as associate manager. He has no MLB managerial experience, however. How do you feel about the hire? After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

With a 30-16 win over the Bears, the Ravens avoided the worst start in franchise history and a loss that would have effectively ended their season. Here are five things we learned: Hold off on writing the season’s obituary John Harbaugh started to smile as he described what was a “joyous” postgame locker room scene. The Ravens are finally back in the win column, a feeling they hadn’t celebrated in 42 days. Their coach, who two weeks ago stood at that same dais groaning about how tired he was of having the same conversation about another underwhelming performance, could finally show some teeth. Then he stopped himself. “We won one game,” Harbaugh said, allowing the emotion of a win to show for merely a moment before pounding his fist into the table to recenter on the bigger picture. That’s how many of his players felt. A convincing win over the Bears raised their playoff odds by a few percentage points. It stopped the bleeding of a four-game losing streak. And it means this breezy late-October afternoon in Baltimore, with the leaves showing newly vibrant hues and daylight savings time still a week out, is, in fact, too early to write the season’s obituary. Baltimore’s temperament showed a team keenly aware of where it stands. Running back Derrick Henry walked off the field and hugged his coach with a straight face. All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton scoffed at the thought of this being a “sigh of relief.” Rather, “we didn’t just win the Super Bowl,” he said. “We won a regular-season game against a good team.” The Ravens have desperately needed a momentum swinger. Amidst the losing streaks, smart coaching decisions haven’t manifested into game-altering drives, and eye-popping plays haven’t snowballed. This time, with a narrow lead heading into the final frame, stadium speakers filled the bowl with the soothing sound of Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds.” Minutes later, Baltimore finally put the pieces together. The Ravens were in plus-territory with a fourth-and-5. Tyler Loop told special teams coach Randy Brown that he felt ready to try what would have been a 57-yard kick. Harbaugh entertained the idea of going for it. He landed on a fake play, with an outside chance of drawing the defense offsides, then punting — an overt show of confidence in the defense, which Hamilton said they might not have deserved a few weeks ago. Jordan Stout’s leg pinned Chicago at its own 4. Two plays later, cornerback Nate Wiggins undercut a throw to Rome Odunze for his second interception this season. Two plays after that, Tyler Huntley lofted an easy touchdown pass to tight end Charlie Kolar, stacking their lead from a field goal to two possessions. Kolar said a few were joking before the game that this was either a “must-win” or a “can’t lose.” Semantics didn’t matter. “God, we needed a win,” he said. Tyler Huntley outplayed his predecessor, Cooper Rush, and it wasn’t particularly close Huntley found out Saturday that he would be the starting quarterback for what many considered to be a win-or-go-home-caliber Ravens game. Thinking back to the emotions of finding out, the career backup shrugged, “Shoot, let’s do it,” he said. Such calm confidence translated fairly quickly to the big stage. So much so that, with the benefit of hindsight, it’s hard not to think about what might have been while watching Huntley orchestrate a Ravens offense with a pulse. Baltimore’s third-stringer, replacing the injured Lamar Jackson and benched Cooper Rush, threw for 186 yards and a touchdown on 17 of 22 passing. He was nearly perfect at the break. The Ravens took a lead into halftime for the first time since Week 2 versus Cleveland and walked off with their first win in the same time frame. Related Articles Mike Preston: Ravens look mediocre, but opponents are worse | COMMENTARY Ravens’ Tyler Huntley provides much-needed stability amid QB uncertainty Ravens’ defense finally finishes, slams the door vs. Bears | COMMENTARY Ravens’ John Harbaugh explains Lamar Jackson practice report, availability The Baltimore Sun’s Ravens report card: Grades for 30-16 win over Bears Harbaugh called it “one of those all-time great performances.” The kind that raises an eyebrow about the decision to stick with Rush for eight grueling quarters. Baltimore’s defense didn’t match Houston’s pace, so it probably wouldn’t have mattered who started under center. But a similar performance could have influenced the Rams’ loss. Either way, Harbaugh said starting Huntley this week, after finalizing Jackson’s status, “wasn’t a hard decision.” That was the contingency plan heading into bye week preparation. Huntley proved why — even if it came against a Bears defense missing its top three cornerbacks. They still fielded a proven safety duo responsible for half of their league-leading 11 interceptions. Nonetheless, Huntley overcame an ugly three-play first quarter to close out a must-win. He spread the ball around to seven pass catchers, picked up 53 yards on the eight rushing attempts and did the thing Rush couldn’t, which is not turn the ball over. The details of Huntley’s return to Baltimore have been largely swept over, for no reason other than the long shot he’d ever actually start a game from the practice squad. In short, Huntley was at home working out at the start of training camp when he texted his former coach, “I know you’re in camp, give me a call when you get a chance.” Harbaugh rang him right away, much quicker than the quarterback expected, he said with a laugh. The two daydreamed about a potential reunion. Huntley joined Baltimore’s practice squad weeks later. “We talked about if it does come to fruition, [I said], ‘You could win a football game for us,’” Harbaugh said. “And here we are. It’s one of those things that you just really could never predict, but it’s the way things work sometimes.” From ‘bend-then-break’ defense to ‘bend-but-don’t-break’ For much of the game’s opening drive, and in short spurts throughout the win, Baltimore’s defense looked no different than it had for the better part of this season. The Ravens were a rudderless ship in tempestuous waters, incapable of slowing down even the most middling of offenses, on the ground or through the air. Caleb Williams, a former first overall pick who isn’t the reason for Chicago’s four-game win streak, looked like a seasoned starter the way he picked apart this lost group. Fifteen-yard pass here, 10-yard rush there. Then Baltimore’s defense came alive, walling up in the red zone on back-to-back first quarter drives. Cornerback Nate Wiggins, right, defends Bears wide receiver DJ Moore, who fails to catch a pass during the fourth quarter of the Ravens' 30-16 win. Wiggins and the defense have held consecutive opponents under 20 points. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Asked about those two, which limited Chicago to six first-quarter points rather than 14, Harbaugh said simply, “That was massive,” and “that gave us life.” Chicago didn’t score another point until the fourth quarter. “Throughout the season,” Hamilton said, “we’ve been a bend-and-then-break team. We gave up long drives and then touchdowns. And I feel like just growing up throughout the season as a defense, we have become a bend-but-don’t-break team.” Roquan Smith led the Ravens in tackles (12) in his first game back from a Week 4 injury. Wiggins intercepted his second pass this year, Baltimore’s only picks in seven games. Mike Green logged his first career sack. A pair of near-sacks from Hamilton and Kyle Van Noy that forced Williams to chuck the ball aside, both times flagged for intentional grounding, all but dissolved a pair of second-quarter drives. Complementary football was a sticking point in Ravens meeting rooms this week. On Sunday, they did just that. Creating some semblance of a pass rush, while down multiple starters because of injury, was the “main focus” of Baltimore’s bye week, defensive coordinator Zach Orr said. They hit on that, too. Ravens coaches showed as much confidence in their defense as they have all season with the choice to take a delay of game penalty and punt, which yielded the Wiggins interception. “It feels good, just running on the field, knowing our head coach trusts us,” Wiggins said. “It just makes us want to go out, play harder, and get a stop.” For weeks, this defense has bemoaned their own inability to translate high-level practices to game day. Leaders diagnosed the issue as mountainous pressure from a wretched start, siphoning all the fun. On Sunday, Green said, “We just went out there, had fun, and that led to the victory.” Patrick Ricard had a ‘gut-wrenching’ rehab. He was a clear offensive boost. Patrick Ricard is like a snowplow. When the Ravens run the ball, the 300-pound All-Pro fullback and one of the last of his kind in the NFL, clears the roadway of other-jersey-colored obstructions. Without him, Baltimore’s run game more often looked like a car skidding through nasty conditions and ramming into barriers. At one point in the first half, he put a Bears linebacker on his butt. Ricard, who made his season debut after nursing a calf injury that put him out in mid-August, said that play “was worth everything.” Ricard acknowledged it has been “challenging” getting back on the field. He was gearing up to play Week 1 in Buffalo, then reinjured it. His rehab took longer than expected. Ricard did his best to stay patient. “If I tried to push through it when it was healing,” he said, speaking with reporters for the first time this season, “I maybe would’ve re-injured it again, and then maybe my whole season was over.” Without Ricard to help clear a path amidst Baltimore’s middling offensive line, Henry was held to 50 yards rushing or fewer in four games. Since Week 1, the Ravens collectively haven’t reached the 200-yard mark, a benchmark they cleared seven times last year. Ricard called it “gut-wrenching” to watch his teammates fall short. Sunday’s 177 yards on the ground marked their third-best showing of the year. Henry had 71 yards on 21 carries with two scores. And Keaton Mitchell broke off 43 yards with only four carries. The touchdown that extended Baltimore’s lead to double digits in a crucial spot was a perfect encapsulation of how Ricard can affect the game. Huntley lined up under center. Ricard was a step back and to his right. Henry was another step behind. When Huntley turned back to show handoff to Henry and Ricard stormed upfield looking for someone to block, Chicago’s entire defense bit. Four defensive backs stepped in that direction, Huntley turned back and tossed it to a wide-open Kolar the other direction. The Ravens ran for over 150 yards with fullback Patrick Ricard, shown warming up, back in the lineup after missing the first six games of the season with an injured calf. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) “Words can’t describe how good it felt to be back [with] the boys today,” Ricard posted on X. “[Shoutout Charlie Kolar] on the tuddy!!” Emotions piled up in the win. Ricard, again and again, reminded himself to be confident in the stability of his calf and to “just let it rip.” Center Tyler Linderbaum called Ricard’s physical presence a “game changer.” For a team that so often relies on the run game and expects to return their superstar dual-threat quarterback from injury in a few days, Ricard’s return is a major boost. Jackson’s injury designation snafu didn’t come back to bite Baltimore. They should have him back this week. Leading into Sunday’s game versus Chicago, folks inside and out of the Ravens practice facility in Owings Mills invoked the playoffs to convey the urgency of a win, avoiding a 1-6 pit so far beneath the Earth’s surface that no team in the last half-century has clawed out to reach the postseason. Much of the discourse spotlighted Baltimore’s two-time Most Valuable Player. Would Jackson play? Would the hamstring injury that limited him in practice be too much to overcome by the weekend? Harbaugh explained the team’s decision to retroactively change Jackson’s practice designation, which might have given more clarity on his availability a day prior, was “an honest mistake.” “I can tell you this; nobody is trying to hide anything,” said Harbaugh, who said it falls on the medical and public relations staffs. “There’s no advantage to be gained with that. He practiced, his status was what it was. … But, questionable or out? We weren’t going to say out because he wasn’t out until Saturday when that conversation was had on the medical side.” Kolar said to combat the challenge of not knowing for sure who the quarterback might be, they try to be present. “Who is the quarterback taking the rep right now? And then work with that,” he said. “We believe in that whole room.” The discourse loses steam when a third-string quarterback pilots 30 points of offense in a double-digit win. Either way, Harbaugh said he’s “hopeful” they’ll return Jackson for Thursday night in Miami. Beating Chicago settled the tide. They still have a long way to go. Any true shot at a season-saving run requires a healthy Jackson. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, center, congratulates teammate Tyler Huntley, left, in the fourth quarter. The team is hopeful Jackson can return to play Thursday against the Dolphins. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) View the full article

The Ravens needed a win. Any win. That happens when a team is 1-5 and scrounging to get into the postseason, so the 30-16 victory against the Chicago Bears was a big deal. The Ravens are now 2-5, and that abyss the team has been staring into since the season started doesn’t appear to be as deep or as dark. And once the Ravens beat Miami on Thursday night as expected, they are back in contention for the AFC North because no team, not even the division-leading Pittsburgh Steelers, is going to run away with the title. It’s a dog fight until the end. Well, it’s more of a chicken fight. Get used to it, because what was on display Sunday is what you will see for at least the next month or so because the NFL’s product is awful. There are maybe five good teams in the league right now, and the rest are pretty poor. Kansas City is again the top team with the best quarterback, followed by Philadelphia, Buffalo, Denver and possibly Detroit. Go ahead, you can pick the order, because it has become the standard modus operandi for the Ravens until the final two weeks of the season when they travel to Green Bay and Pittsburgh. The Ravens weren’t great Sunday, but their upcoming opponents are worse. The Ravens still have to play Cincinnati twice. The Bengals can score points because they have quarterback Joe Flacco and receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, but they don’t have a defense, which is why they lost, 39-38, to the previously winless New York Jets. The Jets? The stinking, rotten Jets. They play the Ravens here in Baltimore on Nov. 23. The Ravens also face Cleveland again later this season and the Minnesota Vikings, both teams without a top starting quarterback, and the “Clowns” were a 32-13 loser to the New England Patriots on Sunday. The Ravens still have to play Pittsburgh twice, including the final day of the regular season, but the Steelers have too many older guys on their roster. They’ll fold like they did last season, when they lost their last four regular-season games and were eliminated by the Ravens, 28-14, in the wild-card round. That’s why, for all those who kept asking about whether Ravens coach John Harbaugh should be fired during the bye week, the answer was a resounding no. Related Articles Ravens’ Tyler Huntley provides much-needed stability amid QB uncertainty Ravens’ defense finally finishes, slams the door vs. Bears | COMMENTARY Ravens’ John Harbaugh explains Lamar Jackson practice report, availability The Baltimore Sun’s Ravens report card: Grades for 30-16 win over Bears Ravens beat Bears, 30-16, with Tyler Huntley to end 4-game losing skid During the first six weeks, five of the opponents were in the playoffs last season, and it’s going to get easier, much like Sunday’s win against Chicago. The Bears are an ugly team but had won four straight. Then they turned into the Bears again. They are the only team that can get more penalties and finish with more turnovers than the Ravens. Baltimore had six penalties for 45 yards, and Chicago had 11 for 79. Ravens backup quarterback Tyler Huntley didn’t throw an interception despite almost turning it over twice in scoring position, but Bears quarterback Caleb Williams threw one in the fourth quarter that led to a 10-yard touchdown pass from Huntley to tight end Charlie Kolar. Running back Derrick Henry scored on a 2-yard run with 2:09 remaining to seal the win. This game was far from picturesque. Actually, it was dreadful, but that’s the state of the NFL these days. In five of the previous six games, the Ravens couldn’t run the ball, stop the run or keep their quarterback protected. But on Sunday, they rushed for 177 yards on 35 carries and had 355 yards of total offense. The Bears had 372 yards of total offense, and the Ravens looked lost at times in the secondary again, especially without a consistent pass rush. But they can get by for now on this schedule, especially playing on a short week against the Dolphins. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will play in that game because it is in his home state. It’s like a guarantee, sort of like death, taxes and Jackson playing in front of friends and relatives. It was intriguing how the Ravens, including Harbaugh, tried to downplay Jackson’s hamstring injury throughout the week, but it’s all about trying to stay one step ahead of the competition. Harbaugh wanted the Bears to spend the entire week preparing for Jackson, even though he took repetitions Friday with the scout team, which should have changed his participation to limited. Of course, the Ravens came out with a statement Saturday explaining the situation, but it’s clear what they attempted. They’ll face a fine or possibly lose a draft pick, but the Ravens accomplished a major goal. They won. Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar, right, celebrates his touchdown catch against the Bears. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) As for Jackson, it wouldn’t be surprising if he simply told the Ravens that he wasn’t going to play Saturday morning and that ended any future conversations. Jackson, a two-time league Most Valuable Player, might be the biggest enigma in the NFL. Whatever he wants, he gets from Harbaugh and this organization. But he’ll play Thursday night against the Dolphins, who have no defense. In the end, the Ravens needed to win after getting thrashed by Houston, 44-10, and then pushed around by the Los Angeles Rams, 17-3, nearly two weeks ago. They were previously 4-12 in games without Jackson being the starting quarterback since 2018, but now they might get on a mini roll. They’ll get Jackson back, and now they have middle linebacker Roquan Smith, safety Kyle Hamilton and left tackle Ronnie Stanley healthy again instead of shuffling them in and out of the starting lineup. That’s why winning Sunday was so important. They beat the Bears and should win against Miami. They’ll be on a two-game winning streak and they know that there isn’t a clear-cut favorite to win the AFC North. That’s why the Ravens were so happy Sunday. Actually, downright giddy. They didn’t play well, but they played well enough to win and saved their season. In this league, that’s good enough for now — and in the immediate future. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

In late July or early August during training camp, when the days are still long and temperatures still exhausting, Tyler Huntley was at home in Florida, wondering if another chance would come, and he texted John Harbaugh. The well-traveled quarterback began the summer working out on his own and thought that a reunion in Baltimore, where Huntley got his start and established himself as a serviceable backup, was possible. “I know you’re in camp, give me a call when you get a chance,” Huntley said the message read. “He called right back. I didn’t expect him to call right back. And we just went on.” Huntley later signed with Cleveland but was released — the second time in 12 months he’d been cut by the AFC North bottom feeder — in late August. Four days later, Harbaugh brought him back to Baltimore. “Relationships last forever,” Huntley said Harbaugh told him. The quarterback has been intertwined with Lamar Jackson over the past five years, almost always on call to come off the bench when the two-time Most Valuable Player can’t play. Even stints with the Browns and Miami Dolphins didn’t sever that tie. Jackson was out again Sunday, the third consecutive game the starting quarterback missed with a hamstring injury that’s been the source of so much mystery and speculation. So to cap a week mired by misplaced updates, the Ravens again called on Huntley, who gave his team stability at quarterback they haven’t had since Jackson got hurt nearly a month ago to the day in a game they needed to keep dwindling playoff hopes alive. “If it does come to fruition, you could win a football game for us, right?” Harbaugh said he told Huntley then. “It’s one of those things you could never really predict, but it’s the way things work sometimes.” Huntley completed 17 of his 22 passes for 186 yards, a touchdown and no turnovers in the win. After going three-and-out on his opening possession, Huntley led two scoring drives in the second quarter to put the Ravens ahead, 10-6, entering halftime — their first lead at the break since Week 2. Another pair of field goal drives, the second highlighted by a 29-yard scramble by Huntley, put Baltimore ahead by two scores entering the fourth quarter. He threw his first touchdown pass of the day two plays after Nate Wiggins picked off Bears quarterback Caleb Williams deep in Ravens territory. And after a field goal by Chicago cut Baltimore’s lead to seven with five minutes to play, Huntley and the offense secured five first downs before Derrick Henry scored his second score of the game to hold on. “The way Tyler prepares, nobody’s surprised,” said DeAndre Hopkins, the recipient of a 14-yard completion on a third down during that final drive. “He’s played a lot of ball. He’s been here a while. Being in the room with someone like Lamar, you watch film with someone like Lamar, you learn certain tendencies. He can make plays with his legs. Not a lot of QBs in this league can go out and make those kinds of plays that Tyler and Lamar can make.” Huntley has bounced around the NFL since his last stint in Baltimore. After starting nine games for the Ravens from 2020 to 2023, he was signed and released two separate times by the Browns but never played a regular-season game for them. Huntley started five games for Miami last season filling in for an injured Tua Tagovailoa. Then he rekindled his on-again, off-again relationship with Baltimore and slowly climbed the depth chart. “It’s hard to move around the league and have to win some games,” said Zay Flowers, Huntley’s top target who finished with seven catches for 63 yards. “I’m super impressed. He knows I got his back. Whatever he’s with, I’m with — me, him, [Jackson], we all got a good relationship.” Related Articles Mike Preston: Ravens look mediocre, but opponents are worse | COMMENTARY Ravens’ defense finally finishes, slams the door vs. Bears | COMMENTARY Ravens’ John Harbaugh explains Lamar Jackson practice report, availability The Baltimore Sun’s Ravens report card: Grades for 30-16 win over Bears Ravens beat Bears, 30-16, with Tyler Huntley to end 4-game losing skid Huntley said that he found out he’d start against Chicago on Saturday, a day of confusion surrounding Jackson. He was initially listed as a full participant in Friday’s practice, then retroactively downgraded to limited Saturday afternoon after NFL Network reported that the quarterback worked exclusively with the Ravens’ scout team Friday. By league rules, a player of Jackson’s prominence working with the scout team and not the starting offense warrants a limited designation. “Nobody’s trying to hide anything,” said Harbaugh, who added that he didn’t know the rule and that the team’s medical staff and public relations department files injury designations, not coaches. In a statement to The Baltimore Sun, an NFL spokesperson said that the league will investigate the team’s handling of the situation. After the Ravens’ loss to the Los Angeles Rams, Harbaugh said, “our quarterback is going to be back” after the bye week. Asked to clarify his supposed certainty, the coach said, “I mean, for sure? I’m saying so, but I don’t know.” Like it has so often over Jackson’s career in Baltimore, that prognostication proved wrong. Harbaugh confirmed Friday that Huntley would start against the Bears if Jackson couldn’t go, and said Sunday that the decision was actually made before the bye week. Cooper Rush, who started the previous two games in Jackson’s absence and is making $3.1 million this year, threw for a combined 303 yards with four interceptions in those contests and was replaced by Huntley in the second half against the Rams. The Ravens’ Lamar Jackson, right, congratulates teammate Tyler Huntley during Sunday's win over the Bears at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) “I felt like it was the best thing for our team and gave us the best chance to win,” Harbaugh said. “Just felt like the right thing to do. Nothing against Cooper. Great guy, played good football for us. But Tyler was the answer for today’s game.” “To be honest, we didn’t play well enough for Coop the last two weeks,” said Charlie Kolar, who caught Huntley’s lone touchdown pass. “I thought Snoop did a great job, I thought he took care of the football. He brings great energy.” Teammates say that Huntley’s personality is not far off from Jackson’s. That, along with his winding road to, from and back to Baltimore, garners respect in the locker room and aids in the transition whenever he’s called upon — better than Rush can replicate. The phone conversation that brought Huntley back was months ago now. Sunday, when Huntley backed the Ravens’ trust perhaps better than the backup ever has, was the day Harbaugh knew would eventually come. Have a news tip? Contact Taylor Lyons at tlyons@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/TaylorJLyons. View the full article

Ryan Poles firmly clasped his hands when Roquan Smith’s name echoed through M&T Bank Stadium during pregame introductions. The Chicago Bears general manager sat still in the press box as Smith, the player he traded away nearly three years ago, jogged out of the tunnel as the Ravens’ final defensive starter. Chicago’s top football executive who moved on from Smith witnessed the opening act. What soon came after belonged to the five-time All-Pro linebacker he dealt to Baltimore. Smith’s fingerprints were all over the Ravens’ first win in more than a month. Smith, 28, returned from his two-game absence because of a hamstring injury and finished with a game-high 12 tackles in Baltimore’s 30-16 victory, serving as physical and emotional anchors to a defensive performance that finally looked like Ravens football again. In the team’s two wins this season, Smith has piled up 26 tackles. “It’s like new energy,” Smith said. “I feel like the team got a fresh start and we’re just going to show who we are.” The start wasn’t necessarily smooth sailing. Chicago’s second-year quarterback Caleb Williams diced through Baltimore’s defense on its first two possessions. But both drives stalled inside the red zone, each ending with a field goal. A few weeks ago, those drives probably would’ve resulted in touchdowns. But on Sunday, they were survival stands that helped the Ravens find their footing — and dare to say, reclaim their identity — against a surging Bears team that saw their four-game win streak come to an abrupt halt. In addition to Smith’s presence, fellow defensive leader and safety Kyle Hamilton added eight tackles, while rookie outside linebacker Mike Green registered his first career sack. The defense also forced Williams into committing a pair of intentional grounding penalties. “Let’s give credit to those guys over there,” Williams said. “They came out and played a hell of a game. It’s a hell of a team over there. I know their record doesn’t necessarily show it, but that’s a team that’s been in multiple championship games and playoff games. That game today was one of those games where they had to come out and try to win the game.” When the Bears mounted a late-game push, the Ravens responded emphatically. Cornerback Nate Wiggins jumped an in-breaking route by wide receiver Rome Odunze and picked off quarterback Williams in the fourth quarter, setting Baltimore up inside Chicago’s red zone. Just two plays later, Tyler Huntley hit tight end Charlie Kolar for a decisive 10-yard touchdown reception. Related Articles Mike Preston: Ravens look mediocre, but opponents are worse | COMMENTARY Ravens’ Tyler Huntley provides much-needed stability amid QB uncertainty Ravens’ John Harbaugh explains Lamar Jackson practice report, availability The Baltimore Sun’s Ravens report card: Grades for 30-16 win over Bears Ravens beat Bears, 30-16, with Tyler Huntley to end 4-game losing skid The Bears had one final gasp after the defense gave up a long completion on the ensuing drive to wide receiver DJ Moore. Chicago ran four offensive plays inside Baltimore’s 3-yard line with under two minutes left that resulted in four big-time stops by Baltimore. As part of the sequence, Smith and fellow linebacker Teddye Buchanan crashed the interior to stonewall Williams’ quarterback sneak. Moments after the Ravens stuffed the Bears one last time, John Harbaugh sought out Smith for a long embrace, the coach-player duo knowing what this moment meant. Following a month-plus of spiraling through disappointment, Baltimore came out of the bye feeling rejuvenated. “We embraced each other, knowing the last month has been very tough,” Smith said. “I consider myself an eternal optimist, so it’s always like, we’ve got a shot to do whatever we want.” As Tyler Huntley sparked life into the offense, the Ravens’ defense slammed the door shut. Bears running back D’Andre Swift entered the Week 8 matchup with a whopping 232 rushing yards over his past two games (7 yards per carry average), but managed just 45 rushing yards across 11 carries (4.1 average) versus Baltimore. The Ravens also held the Bears to 6 of 13 on third down, 0-for-1 on fourth down, and 1-for-3 in the red zone. Wiggins’ interception marked the defense’s second straight game with a takeaway. The Ravens (2-5) improved to 15-3 after their bye week under Harbaugh, tied with Pittsburgh for the best overall record after the bye. Sunday represented a gritty and urgent performance from the Ravens, a team on the brink that needed to claw back into the win column. Over their past two games, the Ravens have held the Rams and Bears to their second-lowest and lowest point totals of the season, respectively. Baltimore faces a steep climb, but the team’s second victory felt like a reset. For the Ravens to make anything of this season, Smith and company will need to continue setting the tone. “I know what I bring to the table,” Smith said. “So it’s just more so about me echoing that each and every snap through my play.” Have a news tip? Contact Josh Tolentino at jtolentino@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200, x.com/JCTSports and instagram.com/JCTSports. Inside linebacker Teddye Buchanan catches up to Bears running back Kyle Monangai, stopping him behind the line of scrimmage. The Ravens clamped down on the Bears in the red zone in Sunday's 30-16 win. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) View the full article

After the Ravens’ handling of quarterback Lamar Jackson’s practice participation prompted an NFL investigation, coach John Harbaugh said that it was an “honest mistake.” Jackson didn’t play in Sunday’s 30-16 win over the Chicago Bears after initially being ruled questionable with a hamstring injury following Friday’s practice, in which he was listed as a full participant. But the Ravens clarified a day later that Jackson didn’t take starter reps in practice, so his participation was changed to limited and he was ruled out. Baltimore could be subject to discipline by the league for the error, which violates NFL rules. An NFL spokesperson told The Baltimore Sun that it “reviews any matter involving a change to a player’s status.” After Sunday’s win, Harbaugh said that he’s not involved in the injury designations, deferring to the team’s training staff and public relations staff. He said that he didn’t know the rules and that the Ravens “weren’t going to rule [Jackson] out until we had to.” “It’s an honest mistake,” Harbaugh said. “I can tell you this nobody’s trying to hide anything. There’s no advantage to be gained.” Huntley said that he learned Saturday night that he would be the starting quarterback Sunday. The 27-year-old, who began his career in Baltimore as an undrafted free agent, completed 17 of 22 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown and rushed for 53 yards on eight carries after supplanting backup Cooper Rush, who started the previous two games. The win halted a four-game losing streak and lifted the Ravens to 5-12 in games that Jackson has missed during his career. “I usually prepare every day like I’m the starter, so it wasn’t too much of a surprise,” said Huntley, who noted that he talks to Jackson “all the time.” Harbaugh said that the Ravens were planning during the bye week to start Huntley if Jackson was unavailable. As far as Jackson’s availability next week for the Ravens’ Thursday night matchup against the host Miami Dolphins, Harbaugh was not ready to make any declarations about the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player. Jackson hasn’t played since suffering the injury in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 28. “I’m hopeful. I’m just going to say that: I’m hopeful,” Harbaugh said. “As a coach, you ask, ‘How’s he doing?’ That’s about as much as you do. ‘What do you think?’ And then you get the guys ready that are going to play. And when the guys come back to practice, you put them in there. That’s how it works on the coaching side. The coaches aren’t involved with statuses or whether guys are playing or not.” Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. Related Articles The Baltimore Sun’s Ravens report card: Grades for 30-16 win over Bears Ravens beat Bears, 30-16, with Tyler Huntley to end 4-game losing skid Instant analysis from Ravens’ 30-16 win over Bears Ravens vs. Bears, Oct. 26, 2025 | PHOTOS Ravens vs. Bears live updates: Postgame coverage, analysis from 30-16 win View the full article

Here’s how the Ravens graded out at every position after a 30-16 win over the Bears on Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium: Quarterback Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley wasn’t great, but he was good enough to beat the lowly Bears. The Ravens took some shots downfield with Huntley, which they did not do in the past two games with Cooper Rush. Huntley completed 17 of 22 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown and finished with a passer rating of 116.9, but Chicago had to respect his running ability, especially on option plays and quarterback draws up the middle. Huntley did a decent job filling in for injured starter Lamar Jackson, and he at least kept the Bears from stacking the line of scrimmage with seven or eight players. But he nearly threw two interceptions in scoring position, which would have halted two drives. He had a long pass of 36 yards. Huntley should have been the team’s first option to back up Jackson instead of the $6 million dollar man, Mr. Rush. It’s not that hard. One can run and the other can’t. Neither is an exceptional thrower of the football. Grade: C+ Running backs Halfback Derrick Henry wasn’t sensational, but he was solid and made some nice cutback runs. The Ravens finally got backup Keaton Mitchell involved in some toss plays as he finished with 43 yards on four carries and was another reason why the Bears couldn’t stack the line of scrimmage. Henry finished with 71 yards on 21 attempts and had two 2-yard touchdown runs. The Ravens finished off their final touchdown drive of the game on a run by Henry to cap a nine-play, 66-yard scoring drive. It was a nice touch, but what took the Ravens so long to get Mitchell involved in the game plan? Just toss him the ball to the outside; it forces the defense to spread out. This was another easy decision as far as using key players. Grade: C+ Offensive line The Ravens rushed for 177 yards on 35 carries, and they controlled a Bears defensive front that came into the game allowing 137.7 yards rushing per game. Chicago didn’t disappoint, as the Bears had no definitive answers for Henry or Mitchell. The Ravens, though, still have problems pass blocking and need help in the middle, especially guards Daniel Faalele and Andrew Vorhees. Both stand up or operate too high and allow smaller or shorter defensive linemen to get under their pads. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley, who missed time in recent weeks with an ankle injury, makes a big difference. Grade: C Receivers The Ravens finally started to use Zay Flowers more on jet screens, and it paid off. The Ravens also got a nice blend of running the ball and passing, which opened up their play-action passing game. Flowers led the receivers with seven catches for 63 yards, and tight end Mark Andrews had three catches for 34 yards. Rashod Bateman had two catches for 51 yards, including a long of 36. That catch seemed to get him going, and he was involved in the game plan. DeAndre Hopkins had only one catch for 14 yards but kept a touchdown drive alive in the fourth period with the reception. All he does is get open, and the Ravens need to get him more involved in the passing offense. The Bears played without two starting cornerbacks in Kyler Gordon and Tyrique Stevenson, and it showed. Grade: C Defensive line The Ravens held Chicago to 96 yards rushing on 23 carries, and they were aided by the injury to running back D’Andre Swift, who was slowed by a groin injury. Swift rushed only 11 times for 45 yards. The Ravens, though, played well up front with strong games from nose tackle John Jenkins (two tackles), C.J. Okoye (1) and Travis Jones (1). Most of the running lanes were shut down, especially inside the Ravens’ 20-yard line. Grade: C Related Articles Ravens’ John Harbaugh explains Lamar Jackson practice report, availability Ravens beat Bears, 30-16, with Tyler Huntley to end 4-game losing skid Instant analysis from Ravens’ 30-16 win over Bears Ravens vs. Bears, Oct. 26, 2025 | PHOTOS Ravens vs. Bears live updates: Postgame coverage, analysis from 30-16 win Linebackers The Ravens started the game poorly, allowing too many rushing yards. The group rebounded well and continued to improve throughout the game, but the Ravens need to do a better job of keeping offensive linemen off their bodies and discarding blocks. Middle linebacker Roquan Smith looked lost early in the game, but finished as the team’s leading tackler with 12. Rookie Teddye Buchanan has improved in both run defense and pass coverage and finished with six tackles, four unassisted. The Ravens got very little pressure from outside linebackers Kyle Van Noy and David Ojabo even though rookie outside linebacker Mike Green had the first sack of his career. Green, though, only had one tackle. Grade: C Secondary Despite very little pressure, this group held up well, much better than in recent weeks. The Bears, though, still moved the ball downfield consistently, and the middle of the field was wide-open again. But regardless of the starters on the back end, the Ravens need to get more pressure. They had only one sack and four hits on the quarterback. Second-year cornerback Nate Wiggins had an interception, which led to a Ravens touchdown in the fourth quarter, and they were good at reading the eyes of quarterback Caleb Williams, who was slow in delivering the ball. Safety Kyle Hamilton played well near the line of scrimmage and finished with nine tackles, while fellow safety Alohi Gilman had four. Tough guy award goes to Wiggins, who finished with seven tackles. Grade: C Special teams The Ravens roll the dice with special teams every week because you never know which of these units will play well or poorly. They were successful with kickoff returns, having one returned 34 yards by Rasheen Ali and another of 39 yards by Keaton Mitchell. Yet, they also allowed Devin Duvernay to return one for 49 yards and allowed an average of 26.2 yards on six kickoff returns. Rookie Tyler Loop converted field goal attempts of 42, 28 and 32 yards without a miss. Grade: C Coaching It’s hard to grade this game because the Bears are not a very good football team despite winning four games in a row. In some ways, it’s amazing the Ravens had to score 14 points in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. But at least offensive coordinator Todd Monken attempted to go downfield against a team without two starting cornerbacks. On defense, the Ravens managed some pressure on Williams, but the Bears’ left tackle, Theo Benedet, might be one of the worst in the game. At this time, Baltimore will take the win. Any win. Grade: C Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey, right, and outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy pressure Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, left, in the fourth quarter. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens outside linebacker Mike Green, left, celebrates with quarterback Tyler Huntley following a fourth-quarter touchdown in a 30-16 win over the Bears. The victory snapped the team's four-game losing streak. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) View the full article

No Lamar Jackson, no problem. With the Ravens’ season effectively on the line Sunday afternoon at M&T Bank Stadium, quarterback Tyler Huntley started in place of the injured two-time NFL Most Valuable Player and filled in admirably, throwing for 186 yards and a touchdown and running for another 53 yards. Just as importantly, he was mistake-free in his first start for Baltimore since a painful playoff defeat in January 2023. Huntley’s performance helped set up Tyler Loop field goals from 42, 28 and 32 yards and two short Derrick Henry touchdown runs, while a Nate Wiggins interception led to a 9-yard scoring strike to tight end Charlie Kolar to seal a much-needed 30-16 victory. The win ends a four-game skid for Baltimore (2-5) and provides the first step toward the ultimate goal of making the playoffs. It also ended a six-game winless slide for the Ravens in which Jackson, who missed his third straight game because of a hamstring injury suffered in last month’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, had not started. Baltimore is now 5-12 in games that he has not played since taking over in 2018. Meanwhile, Baltimore’s beleaguered defense, which came into the week last in the NFL in points allowed per game but felt like it started to find a little something in a loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 6, continued its upward trajectory, even if only slightly. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr said the biggest focus of the bye week was figuring out how to generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. On Sunday, he finally found some. First, it was safety Kyle Hamilton racing through unblocked to force an intentional grounding penalty on a third down midway through the second quarter. Cornerback Marlon Humphrey did the same one series later. The two plays led to Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (25 of 38 passing for 285 yards) throwing to no one and drawing flags to help spark a 10-6 Baltimore lead at the half. It was the Ravens’ first halftime lead since Week 2 — their only victory of the season coming into the game. The Ravens’ defense also kept Chicago, which entered Sunday on a four-game winning streak, out of the end zone on two first-half drives that stalled at Baltimore’s 14- and 22-yard lines with the Bears having to settle for a pair of Cairo Santos field goals. Early in the fourth quarter, Chicago finally found the end zone, capping an 11-play, 83-yard drive that ended with a 2-yard run by D’Andre Swift (11 carries, 45 yards) and cut the deficit to 16-13, but that was as close as it would get. Kolar’s score pushed the lead back to 10, and Henry (71 yards, 21 carries) scored his second touchdown of the game from 2 yards out with 2:09 remaining. The two touchdowns were the 111th and 112th of his career, pushing him past Walter Payton for fifth all-time among running backs. The victory was also a moment of redemption for Huntley. The last time he had started a game this important for Baltimore was in January 2023. In that wild-card contest against the Bengals, the Ravens were on Cincinnati’s 1-yard line in the fourth quarter and on the cusp of breaking a 17-17 tie when he attempted to dive over the defense into the end zone. Instead, Huntley had the ball stripped by linebacker Logan Wilson, and defensive end Sam Hubbard returned it 98 yards for the game-clinching score. This time, there was no such heartache. Related Articles Instant analysis from Ravens’ 30-16 win over Bears Ravens vs. Bears, Oct. 26, 2025 | PHOTOS Ravens vs. Bears live updates: Postgame coverage, analysis from 30-16 win Ravens QB Lamar Jackson ruled out vs. Bears; NFL looking into status change Ravens leader Roquan Smith must deliver in revenge game | COMMENTARY More significantly, the performance kept Baltimore’s postseason hopes alive and was a dose of positivity after what had been a tumultuous week. Less than 24 hours earlier, the NFL said it was investigating the team’s handling of Jackson’s practice participation earlier in the week. Baltimore could be subject to discipline because the team originally listed the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player as a full participant in Friday’s practice. A day later, his practice participation was changed to limited. But that will be a problem for another day. The Ravens will next head to South Florida for a Thursday night prime-time showdown against the Miami Dolphins. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article