MINNEAPOLIS — As the NFL regular season reaches its midpoint, the Baltimore Ravens continue to be the league”s biggest enigma. On Sunday, they achieved their third consecutive victory, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 27-19 at U.S. Bank Stadium. However, deciphering this team remains a challenge.
The game started sluggishly for the Ravens, who could only manage three field goals in the first half and trailed 10-9 at halftime. Yet, they exploded for 18 points in the second half. Wide receiver Rashod Bateman commented, “Yes, there”s a lot that we could work on and be better at, but I definitely liked that we put up points. There were a couple of drives I wish we had back, but I think we”re starting to find our groove.”
The game felt closer than the final score suggests, as the Ravens held control for the majority of the match, except for some late-game efforts from the Vikings” receivers. They effectively kept second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy off balance, recording twelve quarterback hurries and significantly limiting the effectiveness of Minnesota”s dynamic receiving corps, especially Justin Jefferson, who appeared frustrated at times.
Questions about the Ravens” inconsistency arise, particularly after they started the season with a 1-5 record. Injuries to nine starters early on played a significant role, but the team was healthy for this matchup. Despite their win, the Ravens struggled against a Vikings team that came in with a 4-4 record and had shown improvement on defense after a surprise victory over the Lions the previous week. The Ravens relied on two interceptions and a fumble recovery to secure the win.
One strategy that appears effective is leaning heavily on running back Derrick Henry. He carried the ball 20 times for 75 yards, dominating in the second half with 11 carries for 42 yards. The Ravens have previously struggled with utilizing Henry effectively in playoff scenarios, leading to the motto: “Run, Henry, run.”
Center Tyler Linderbaum remarked on the team”s resilience, stating, “We”ve been through a lot this year. It”s a lot of adversity and a lot of people doubting us. We”re still not where we need to be, but we have a lot of belief in this locker room.” Midway through the fourth quarter, the Ravens demonstrated their commitment to the ground game, starting a drive at their own 33-yard line and running Henry six times in eight plays, culminating in a touchdown pass from Lamar Jackson to tight end Mark Andrews.
While Baltimore”s offensive line seems tailored for a strong running game, their pass protection remains a concern. This dual approach could keep games competitive, but questions linger about defensive performance, especially in the secondary. The cornerbacks struggled for much of the first half, and despite two interceptions, they were aided by lackluster efforts from Minnesota”s receivers.
As the Ravens improve, the addition of linebacker Dre”Mont Jones has been beneficial, contributing to the pressure on McCarthy. The team continues to be a mystery, displaying potential for success while facing formidable opponents ahead, including divisional rivals like Pittsburgh and Cincinnati.
Ultimately, this Ravens squad oscillates between moments of brilliance and mediocrity, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning which version will appear in future matchups.
