All You Need to Know: Ravens vs. Texans

 

Editor's Note: AFC Divisional Round Preview - Ravens vs. Texans

As excitement builds for the AFC Divisional Round showdown between the Baltimore Ravens and the Houston Texans, here's a comprehensive guide to key details and storylines for the upcoming clash at M&T Bank Stadium.

Game Details:

• Kickoff: 4:30 p.m., Saturday
• Venue: M&T Bank Stadium

TV Broadcast:

• Local Channels: WMAR Channel 2 (Baltimore), WUSA Channel 9 (Washington)
• National Broadcast: ESPN, ABC, and more
• Broadcast Team: Joe Buck (play-by-play), Troy Aikman (analyst), Laura Rutledge (sideline), Lisa Salters (sideline)

Radio Coverage:

• Local Radio: WBAL 1090 AM & 98 Rock 97.9 FM
• Satellite Radio: Sirius XM Channels 82 or 226
• Ravens Crew: Gerry Sandusky (play-by-play), Rod Woodson (analyst)
• National Broadcast (Westwood One Sports): Tom McCarthy (play-by-play), Ross Tucker (analyst), Ryan Leaf (sideline)

Historical Context:

• The Ravens lead the all-time series 11-2, with a 1-0 advantage in the postseason.
• Notably, the Ravens are unbeaten (7-0) at home against Houston.
• The upcoming match is a rematch of Week 1, where the Ravens secured a 25-9 victory.

Stakes:

• Baltimore aims to reach the AFC Championship Game for the first time since their Super Bowl season in 2012.
• The Ravens could host either Buffalo or Kansas City in the next round if they emerge victorious.
• Houston, under Head Coach DeMeco Ryans, has the opportunity to advance to the conference championship for the first time.

Key Storylines:

1. Lamar Jackson's Postseason Performance:

   • Will the reigning MVP carry his exceptional regular-season play into the playoffs?
   • Jackson's focus on securing a Super Bowl victory adds an extra layer of anticipation.
   • With more experience and a determined mindset, Jackson aims to improve on his 1-3 playoff record.

2. Ravens' Sharpness After Bye:

   • After a well-deserved bye, how quickly can the Ravens find their rhythm in a do-or-die situation?
   • Baltimore's consistent season, marked by remarkable performance, sets high expectations for their postseason run.

3. Defensive Challenge against C.J. Stroud:

   • The Ravens' defense, leading in points allowed, sacks, and takeaways during the regular season, faces a challenge.
   • Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, leading in touchdown-to-interception ratio, poses a threat to the Ravens' defensive prowess.
   • If the Ravens contain Stroud as they did in Week 1, Houston will face a tough task in pulling off an upset.

Players to Watch:

1. Odell Beckham Jr. (WR):

   • A proven playoff performer, Beckham's chemistry with Jackson could elevate the Ravens' offense.

2. Brandon Stephens (CB):

   • With Marlon Humphrey out, Stephens faces a crucial assignment against Houston's Nico Collins.
   • The Ravens look to Stephens for consistent cornerback play.

3. Kyle Hamilton (S):

   • Returning from a late-season knee injury, Hamilton's impact on the game will be vital in the defensive game plan against Stroud.

As the Ravens and Texans gear up for a high-stakes battle, football fans are in for an exhilarating playoff showdown at M&T Bank Stadium. Stay tuned for a thrilling AFC Divisional Round clash!