Jets vs Ravens Week 12 Preview: Baltimore Looks to Keep Playoff Dreams Alive

Ravens Host Jets in Must-Win Battle at Baltimore

Prepare for an exhilarating Sunday afternoon contest! The Baltimore Ravens are set to host the New York Jets at their home stadium on November 23rd at 1:00 PM EST. This Week 12 showdown presents two distinctly contrasting narratives as both teams find themselves on divergent paths.

Ravens Fighting for Playoff Life

Currently positioned at 5-5, the Ravens find themselves entrenched in a highly competitive AFC playoff race. They are coming off a significant 23-16 victory over their division rivals, the Cleveland Browns, which has rejuvenated their aspirations for a playoff berth. Quarterback Lamar Jackson has been adeptly managing games, while seasoned running back Derrick Henry continues to power through defenses with remarkable effectiveness. At 31 years old, Henry showcased his enduring strength by accumulating 103 rushing yards against Cleveland.

Typically, the Ravens prioritize the ground game, which effectively sets the stage for Jackson’s remarkable abilities to execute big plays with both his arm and legs. Their offense tends to flourish when Henry aggressively advances the ball between the tackles, creating opportunities for play-action passes and designed runs tailored for Jackson. Not to be overlooked, Mark Andrews, their exceptional tight end, displayed his creativity with an impressive 35-yard touchdown on a trick play last week.

Jets Search for Bright Spots

The Jets face a considerably steeper challenge, standing at 2-8. Their chances of making the playoffs effectively evaporated following a frustrating 27-14 defeat against the New England Patriots. Nevertheless, running back Breece Hall has emerged as a beacon of hope throughout the season. Hall’s explosive speed and agility render him a formidable threat every time he receives the ball. Quarterback Justin Fields possesses glimpses of his potential but must enhance his accuracy and decision-making when faced with pressure.

Players to Watch

Keep a keen eye on Derrick Henry's formidable running style as he faces off against the Jets' run defense. The critical question remains: Can they effectively contain this powerhouse? Conversely, Breece Hall's agility could lead to explosive plays if he manages to exploit openings within Baltimore's defense. Meanwhile, Lamar Jackson's dual-threat capabilities make him the most electrifying player on the field, as he can defeat opponents through both aerial and ground tactics.

The Matchup Edge

Baltimore’s well-rounded offensive approach, combined with the advantage of home-field support, provides them with a significant edge. The Ravens average more points per game (25.2) compared to the Jets (20.9). With their playoff ambitions hanging in the balance, Baltimore is further motivated to assert their dominance.

Our Prediction

The Ravens are anticipated to secure a victory in this matchup. Their blend of veteran leadership, the fervor of their home crowd, and their pressing need for wins position them as the superior team. Baltimore is likely to rely on Henry's running prowess and Jackson's dynamic playmaking capabilities to control the game from its outset to conclusion.