NFL
By: Courtney Byrd
The Baltimore Ravens head to Atlanta for Sunday night’s matchup, facing a challenge on both sides of the ball. With Lamar Jackson ruled out because of an ankle injury, Tyler Huntley will start at quarterback. Baltimore will need to find ways to move the ball while keeping the Falcons’ explosive offense, led by Bijan Robinson, off the field.
That puts added pressure on Derrick Henry and the Ravens’ rushing attack. Atlanta has the NFL’s top-ranked rushing defense, so establishing the run will not come easily. But Baltimore may need Henry’s physical running and Huntley’s mobility to help keep the offense on schedule and avoid asking its backup quarterback to carry the game through the air.
The Ravens will also need to protect Huntley behind an offensive line dealing with injuries. Baltimore elevated tackle Chuma Edoga and guard Kyle Hergel from the practice squad for the game. Guard Andrew Vorhees is questionable, while Ronnie Stanley is expected to play.
Huntley has experience stepping in for Jackson, and Baltimore has shown confidence in him. Still, the offense will look different without Jackson’s ability to create explosive plays with his arm and legs. Getting the ball to Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Mark Andrews on quick, manageable throws could help Huntley settle in and give the Ravens chances to extend drives.
On defense, Baltimore faces an Atlanta team that has found momentum since Michael Penix Jr. returned to the lineup. The Falcons have won two straight, while Robinson has rushed for 349 yards and four touchdowns over his past two games. The Ravens will have to tackle well and stay disciplined, particularly when Robinson gets into the open field.
That makes time of possession a major part of the matchup. If Henry and Huntley can keep Baltimore’s offense moving, the Ravens can limit Atlanta’s opportunities and help their defense stay fresh. If the run game stalls, Baltimore could be forced into longer passing situations against a Falcons team playing with confidence.
The Ravens are 3-1 and can reach 4-1 for the first time since 2021 with a win. They will need a composed performance from Huntley, help from the offensive line, and a disciplined effort against Robinson to leave Atlanta with a primetime victory.
