The Baltimore Ravens put together their most complete and dominant performance of the 2021 season in Week 6, defeating the Los Angeles Chargers by the final score of 34-6. Baltimore got off to a fast start and never looked back thanks to a combination of ball-control offense, a suffocating defense, and great play on special teams.
John Breech of CBS Sports graded each team’s performance in Week 6, and gave the Ravens very high marks for their game against the Chargers. Breech rewarded Baltimore with an “A” grade, citing their dominance as well as their success on both offense and defense.
“How about that statement made by Baltimore against a Chargers team that appeared unbeatable based on how it played the last three weeks? The Ravens made your 2016 fantasy football team proud as Latavius Murray, Devonta Freeman, and Le’Veon Bell each had a rushing touchdown. Baltimore took full advantage of the Los Angeles run defense, finishing with 38 carries for 187 yards (4.9 yards per carry) in the win. The Ravens’ defense was also dominant, allowing just six points to Herbert and the electric Chargers offense — and might not have allowed any if it wasn’t for an ill-advised Jackson interception to give the Chargers a short field. John Harbaugh, Jackson and Freeman downplayed it, but this was a statement win for Baltimore against a division leader. The Ravens have the look of the best team in the AFC, beating their opponents in different ways each week. Don’t be surprised if Baltimore ends up with home-field advantage in the AFC come January.”
Like Breech mentions, this was absolutely a statement win by the Ravens. They were able to get each of their active running backs involved in Latavius Murray, Le’Veon Bell, and Devonta Freeman, and didn’t need a superhuman performance by quarterback Lamar Jackson to win the game. The defense stepped up to the plate after struggling in a few areas, and Baltimore was able to knock off a very good football team in the Chargers.