Ravens Dominate the Jets, 23–10

The Baltimore Ravens are officially on a roll. With a decisive 23–10 victory over the New York Jets, they have now secured five consecutive wins, elevating their record to 6–5 for the season. Lamar Jackson, returning from injury just two weeks prior, gained confidence as the game progressed, while Derrick Henry powered the offensive efforts. Meanwhile, the Jets fell to a disappointing 2–9 in their first contest featuring Tyrod Taylor as the starting quarterback, replacing the benched Justin Fields.

Jets Turn to Tyrod and Strike First

Seeking to rejuvenate their season, the Jets made a significant shift at quarterback by starting Tyrod Taylor. Initially, this strategy appeared effective. New York relied on Breece Hall and short passing plays, utilizing heavy formations with an extra offensive lineman to assert control on the ground.

Taylor successfully connected with rookie receiver John Metchie II on several quick throws, advancing the offense into the red zone during the second quarter. On a crucial 2nd-and-10 from the 13-yard line, Taylor delivered a precise pass to Metchie, resulting in a touchdown that granted the Jets a 7–0 lead. This sequence exemplified the balanced, run-oriented drive that new head coach Aaron Glenn aims to implement.

Ravens Start Slow but Settle for Points

The Baltimore offense experienced a sluggish start. Lamar Jackson misfired on a few early attempts, and the Ravens experimented with creative plays, including direct snaps to Mark Andrews that failed to gain significant yardage. Jets defenders Quinnen Williams and Jermaine Johnson effectively contained Derrick Henry during the first quarter, leading to multiple punts for Baltimore.

However, as the second quarter progressed, Jackson orchestrated a consistent drive. He utilized short passes to DeAndre Hopkins and Zay Flowers, combined with a series of scrambles, to reach field-goal range. Rookie kicker Tanner Loop successfully converted a 31-yard field goal, narrowing the Jets' lead to 7–3 by halftime. While unremarkable, this scoring drive provided the Ravens with much-needed momentum as they entered the locker room.

Henry Takes Over After Halftime

The third quarter belonged entirely to Derrick Henry and the Ravens’ offensive line.

To commence the second half, Baltimore executed a classic Ravens drive. Henry relentlessly attacked the Jets’ defensive front with runs directed both left and right, while Jackson interspersed quick passes to Hopkins and Flowers. Keaton Mitchell added speed on the edge, propelling the ball down to the 10-yard line. From that position, Henry powered through for a two-yard touchdown, allowing Baltimore to take a 10–7 lead.

After the Ravens' defense forced yet another Jets punt, they duplicated their successful approach. Utilizing short throws, aggressive runs, and methodical play-calling, they wore down New York’s defense. Henry capped this drive with another plunge into the end zone, extending the lead to 17–7 and effectively shifting the momentum of the game.

Breece Hall’s Fumble Changes Everything

In the early moments of the fourth quarter, the Jets still had an opportunity. Nick Folk successfully converted a 42-yard field goal, bringing the score to 17–10. Following that, New York mounted one of their most effective drives of the day. Taylor completed passes to fullback Alex Beck and Hall, with Hall breaking free down the left sideline, advancing to the Ravens' 2-yard line.

However, on the ensuing run, Hall attempted to bounce outside but was met near the goal line. Marlon Humphrey managed to punch the ball loose, which was promptly recovered by safety Alohi Gilman at Baltimore’s 3-yard line. Instead of potentially tying the game, the Jets departed the field with nothing to show for that drive, marking a pivotal turning point in the contest.

Lamar, Flowers, and the Kicking Game Close It Out

Following the fumble, Baltimore relied on intelligent and steady football to navigate the remainder of the game. Henry dashed for a crucial 17-yard run, creating space for the offense. Jackson then returned to the air, connecting with Flowers over the middle before finding wideout Devontez Walker deep down the sideline for a significant gain.

Although the drive faced challenges in the red zone, Loop successfully executed a 35-yard field goal, extending the Ravens' lead to 20–10. Late in the fourth quarter, with the defense dominating and the Jets using their timeouts, Henry continued to run the clock before Loop added another field goal from 27 yards, solidifying a 23–10 lead.

In the Jets’ final possession, Taylor was sacked twice and ultimately threw a deep pass that was intercepted by rookie cornerback Tarheeb Still, effectively sealing the outcome of the game.

What the Win Means for Both Teams

For the Ravens, this victory reaffirms the effectiveness of their strategy: a healthy Lamar Jackson, a formidable running back in Derrick Henry, and a defense that bends without breaking. With a record of 6–5 and riding a five-game winning streak, Baltimore is firmly back in contention for the AFC playoffs.

Conversely, the Jets’ experimentation with Tyrod Taylor offered glimpses of potential, especially through well-timed routes to Metchie and effective short passing. However, struggles in the red zone and Hall’s critical fumble underline a more significant issue: they can advance the ball but often fail to complete drives. With a 2–9 record, New York may soon redirect its focus from this season’s playoff aspirations to developing around their youthful core for future opportunities.