Kansas City Chiefs’ Week 1 win over the Baltimore Ravens slightly dampened their momentum at the start of the new season. As a result, the Lamar Jackson-led team dipped down a little in the latest NFL power ranking.
In the NFL season opener, the Kansas City Chiefs secured a 27-20 victory over the Baltimore Ravens at Arrowhead Stadium. Patrick Mahomes showcased his elite skills, completing 18 of 26 passes for 279 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, despite facing three drops. His ability to manage the game helped the Chiefs maintain control throughout.
Defensively, linebacker Leo Chenal stood out, making significant contributions in run defense, pass rushing, and coverage. He recorded two run stops and generated multiple pressures, solidifying his role in Steve Spagnuolo’s defensive scheme.
The Ravens, while outgaining the Chiefs in total yards (452 to 368), struggled to convert on key plays. Their offense managed 74 total plays but fell short in efficiency, particularly on fourth downs, where they failed to convert. Despite having more first downs and a higher average yards per play, they couldn’t capitalize on opportunities in the red zone.
Both teams had a balanced offensive showing, but the Chiefs executed better in crucial moments, particularly in the red zone, scoring on all their possessions. The Ravens’ defense, though formidable, couldn’t contain Mahomes effectively, allowing the Chiefs to consistently find ways to score.
Baltimore Ravens Still in NFL’s Top 10 Teams After Week 1 Loss to Kansas City Chiefs
The Ravens Week 1 loss caused the team to slightly tumble down in the rankings. This drop can be seen in Bleacher Report’s analysis, which saw Baltimore go down to the sixth spot from fourth, while ESPN’s Jamison Hensley has pegged them at fourth place down from the second.
“The problem is that while one loss isn’t the end of the world, it was yet another setback against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. One that could come back to haunt Baltimore where home-field advantage is concerned come playoff time.
And there were legitimate issues in the game, whether it was shaky offensive line play from a front with three new starters or a less-than-impressive Ravens debut for running back Derrick Henry. The Ravens will Likely (see what we did there?) get back on track next week against the Raiders at home. But beating up on bad teams isn’t good enough for these Ravens.
Only a trip to New Orleans next February is. And to do that, Baltimore is going to have to try to figure out a way to get past the team even Lamar Jackson has called Baltimore’s “kryptonite,” the Bleacher Report article stated.
“There weren’t a lot of options because the newcomers didn’t contribute much for Baltimore. Henry showed promise early, but the Ravens went away from the run game in trying to play catch-up with QB Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. On the opening drive, Henry ran five times for 17 yards, including a 5-yard touchdown.
He had eight carries for 29 yards the rest of the game. Henry could have more opportunities in Week 2 when he faces a Raiders defense that gave up 176 rushing yards to the Chargers in Week 1,” Hensley wrote.
In Week 2, the Baltimore Ravens are heavily favored to defeat the Las Vegas Raiders, with all pundits predicting a win. Analysts highlight the Ravens’ superior talent, including MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson and new running back Derrick Henry. Despite the Raiders’ star players, injuries in their lineup are expected to hinder their performance against a motivated Baltimore team.
If the Ravens handle their business against Las Vegas, expect their rank to go back up. In any case, fans should stay tuned in Week 2 to see whether they have what it takes to get their first win of the season.
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