In the next AFC Championship AFC Championshipthe Baltimore Ravens will host the Kansas City Chiefs, marking a pivotal moment for the franchise since the acquisition of Lamar Jackson in the draft.
The Baltimore Expectation
The team, having secured first place in the AFC, has shown unwavering focus, determined to reach this critical point and achieve its ultimate goal: winning the Super Bowl.
Now, facing a challenging matchup against reigning NFL champions and MVP Patrick Mahomes, the Ravens are on the verge of a historic opportunity to secure their third Super Bowl title.
With Lamar Jackson, a leading candidate for this season's MVP, and a formidable defense led by All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith, the Ravens are undoubtedly in their best position in years.
While both teams rely on their ground games and defensive skills, the outcome of this game is inevitably tied to the performance of the quarterbacks.
As the Chiefs prepare for their showdown in Baltimore, anticipation is growing. Mahomes has proven his ability to single-handedly secure a playoff victory, and now it's Jackson's time to silence the doubters.
The spotlight shines brightly on him as he strives to showcase his excellence in the most important game of his career so far.
Jackson's outstanding start, marked by a stellar performance against the Houston Texans with four total touchdowns, must be replicated to overcome the formidable Chiefs.
This playoff showdown marks the first between the two quarterbacks, with Mahomes holding the advantage in regular season matchups, securing three wins to Jackson's one.
However, recent history leans in the Ravens' favor, as their last meeting resulted in a narrow 36-35 home win in 2021.
Jackson's strategic use of his legs, racking up 107 yards and two ground touchdowns in that game, exploited the Chiefs' vulnerability on defense against the run.
To achieve success, Jackson is ready to take advantage of his ability to escape against the Chiefs' defensive weaknesses.
On the other side of the ball, the Ravens defense faces the challenge of containing Mahomes, recognized as one of the most elusive quarterbacks to bring down in the NFL.
3 days to return to M&T and watch a B-2 fly, MVP Lamar and the Ravens take on Mahomes' Chiefs in a championship game, with Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Sizzle in attendance.
It hasn't been easy to sleep, COME ON RAVENS! #RavensFlock pic.twitter.com/MToso56rfQ
- José R. (@rrrrrcdo) January 25, 2024
Strategy Will Be Key
Whether attributed to a lack of rhythm, weather conditions or an initial error in game strategy, the Ravens got off to a slow start against Houston last week, finding themselves tied at 10 at halftime.
Although they managed to correct the situation in the second half, such a slow start could prove costly against the Chiefs.
A fast start not only ensures that the Ravens take control from the start, but also engages their passionate fan base, known for creating a game-altering atmosphere.
At this level, the presence of fans and the general atmosphere can sometimes be overlooked. The experience varies across the league.
The importance of an early lead lies not only in taking advantage of the Ravens' strengths, but also in exploiting the Chiefs' vulnerabilities.
Forcing the Chiefs to adopt a pass-centric strategy plays to the Ravens' defensive prowess.
The Chiefs' relatively inexperienced receiving corps, coupled with problems with ball retention and an offensive line susceptible to pressure, make this approach advantageous.
While getting to Mahomes is a formidable task, considering his position as the second-fewest caught quarterback in the NFL this season, his ability to pose a greater threat outside the pocket requires the Ravens secondary to step up and cover assignments for a longer period of time than usual.
