In a season where every win counts, the Los Angeles Rams capitalized on a struggling Baltimore Ravens team, securing a 17-3 victory that highlights the stark contrast between these two franchises' trajectories. But here's where it gets controversial—was this a testament to the Rams' resilience, or simply a case of the Ravens self-destructing? Let’s dive into the details.
On a crisp Sunday in Owings Mills, Maryland, the Rams (4-2) didn’t need to bring their A-game to outmaneuver a Ravens squad (1-5) reeling from injuries and inconsistency. With star quarterback Lamar Jackson sidelined for the second consecutive week due to a hamstring injury, Baltimore’s offense sputtered, managing only a field goal on their opening drive. And this is the part most people miss—the Ravens had a golden opportunity late in the first half, with a first-and-goal from the 4-yard line. After Derrick Henry powered to the 1-yard line, Baltimore attempted back-to-back ‘tush push’ plays with tight end Mark Andrews under center. Both failed, and Henry was stopped on fourth down, squandering a critical chance to take the lead.
The Rams seized control in the third quarter, with Kyren Williams punching in a 3-yard touchdown run to break the 3-3 tie. Shortly after, a fumble by Baltimore’s Zay Flowers set up an 8-yard touchdown pass from Matthew Stafford to Tyler Higbee, extending the lead to 17-3. Stafford, while not flawless—he fumbled once in the first half—proved steady enough to guide his team to victory.
Baltimore’s quarterback carousel didn’t help matters. Cooper Rush, who started in Jackson’s absence, completed just 11 of 19 passes for 72 yards, throwing an interception and losing a fumble before being benched for Tyler Huntley in the fourth quarter. Huntley showed flashes of promise, driving the Ravens into the red zone, but the offense stalled again, turning the ball over on downs with 3:44 remaining. Is this a coaching issue, a talent issue, or simply bad luck? The Ravens’ fanbase is divided, and the debate is heating up.
Mistakes plagued the Ravens throughout the second half. Flowers’ fumble and a botched jet sweep—charged to Rush—exemplified the team’s inability to execute under pressure. Meanwhile, the Rams, despite missing key players like star receiver Puka Nacua (who briefly left with a foot injury but returned), maintained their composure.
Speaking of injuries, the Ravens’ woes deepened as left tackle Ronnie Stanley and edge rusher Tavius Robinson exited with ankle and foot injuries, respectively. For the Rams, running back Blake Corum also left with an ankle injury, adding to their own concerns.
With this win, the Rams head to London to face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, while the Ravens have a much-needed bye week before hosting the Chicago Bears on October 26. But here’s the burning question: Can the Ravens turn their season around from a 1-5 start? History says it’s unlikely—only four teams have ever made the playoffs after such a dismal beginning. But in a league where anything can happen, should we count them out just yet?
What do you think? Is Baltimore’s season already over, or is there still hope for a miraculous turnaround? Let us know in the comments below!
