Ravens Dominate Bills in Potential AFC Championship Preview

The matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and the Buffalo Bills, potentially a preview of the AFC Championship, ended with a decisive victory for the Ravens, who defeated the Bills 35-10 at M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday night. The performance was highlighted by Derrick Henry‘s dominant display and a strong defensive showing that stifled Bills quarterback Josh Allen.

Derrick Henry was a standout performer, almost reaching 200 rushing yards with 199 and gaining an additional 10 receiving yards. Although Henry accounted for two touchdowns, he narrowly missed a third, fumbling the ball near the goal line. The ball was recovered in the end zone by fullback Patrick Ricard, marking another touchdown for the Ravens.

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson also showcased his skills, completing 11 of 13 passes for 135 yards and two touchdowns, achieving a passer rating of 149.5. Jackson added a rushing touchdown, further extending the Ravens’ lead and contributing to the Bills’ first loss of the season.

Entering the game, Josh Allen appeared in top form, yet Baltimore’s defensive strategy proved too formidable. Allen’s performance concluded with 16 completions on 29 attempts, no touchdowns, and a significant sack that pushed the Bills back 16 yards.

The Bills relied on several explosive plays to gain ground, including a 52-yard pass from Allen to Khalil Shakir, setting up their only touchdown scored by Johnson on a 3-yard run. Still, the Ravens’ defense remained resilient, forcing turnovers and limiting Buffalo’s success on the field.

Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr remarked on the defensive strategy, “You really don’t know where the ball is going to go. All of his receivers are liable to get the ball in any situation,” referring to Allen’s usual ability to diversify his offensive targets.

Despite entering the game as one of the NFL’s four remaining undefeated teams, the Bills struggled to keep up with Baltimore’s pace. The Ravens’ victory improved their position in the AFC North standings, closing the gap behind the leading Pittsburgh Steelers.

The game was played under challenging weather conditions, with predictions of rain and high humidity impacting players and possibly affecting play. Josh Allen’s performance was further hindered by a hand injury sustained earlier in the season, wearing a glove and having taped fingers during the game.