The Baltimore Ravens fought and clawed to an impressive 34-31 overtime victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 9. It was a tale of two halves for Baltimore, but they played well for the most part when it mattered and pulled out a win.
The first half was abysmal for the Ravens but they somehow entered halftime only down by a touchdown as Minnesota led 17-10. They built up some solid momentum at the end of the first half, but it was all taken away on a Vikings kick return touchdown to open the second half. Baltimore held the momentum for the majority of the second half, but a late score by Minnesota sent the game to overtime. In the extra period it came down to the wire, but Ravens kicker Justin Tucker kicked a game-winning 36-yard field goal.
Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson finished the game completing 27-of-41 passes for 266 yards and three touchdowns while tossing two interceptions. He also ran the ball well, finishing with 21 carries for 120 yards.
Wide receiver Marquise Brown had a big game, as he caught nine passes for 116 yards. Fellow wideout Rashod Bateman caught five passes for 52 yards. The team also saw bursts from running backs Devonta Freeman and Le’Veon Bell.
On defense, the unit struggled in the first half but tightened up for the most part in the second half and overtime. They tackled better, played disciplined, and came up with timely third down stops when play started in the second half. However, there are still plenty of things to work on.
A win is a win, but it was certainly an ugly one for the Ravens. Baltimore will next travel to Miami to take on the Dolphins in a “Thursday Night Football” matchup.