After barely getting the New York Jets last week New England faced a tough opponent the top contender in the AFC, Baltimore Ravens. Coming into the game the Ravens looked to be the winner to all but the Patriots came away with a 23-17 upset win in the rain!
As the rain pounded on both teams the ground and pound game was the way to go in tonights matchup. New England Patriots were definitely dominant on the ground out of both teams as they led with 173 yards to Baltimore’s 115. The Ravens led the game in the air with 242 yards but had some mistakes that led them to lose this matchup.
Why the Ravens Lost
One of them being their secondary being exploited by a trick play that ended in Jakobi Meyers TD pass to Rex Burkhead. Also the Ravens going into Week 10 were the leading rushing teams in the NFL. Against one of the best defenses the Patriots held them to 60 rushing yards out of their running back trio. Lamar Jackson still rushed and had his way with 55 rushing yards of his own but wasn’t enough in crunch time.
Why the Patriots Won
With the scheme the Patriots have been running now, the ground and pound approach they were very successful in this game. As Damien Harris and Rex Burkhead combined for 187 yards. They were clearly exploiting the holes in Baltimores defense and Cam Newton played his part at the quarterback position as he had no interceptions and a rushing touchdown to go along with his 118 yards.
Next Games
The Ravens (6-3) will be back at home in Week 11, when they’re set to host the Tennessee Titans (6-3), who will have the advantage of extra rest following their Thursday night loss to the Colts.
The Patriots (4-5), meanwhile, will hit the road to take on the Houston Texans (2-7), who are fresh off a loss to the Browns.
