Wild Card Weekend Highlights: Ravens and Texans Advance

BALTIMORE — The NFL made a big decision this week as it moved the Monday night game out of SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles due to wildfires affecting the area. The game has now been shifted to Glendale, Arizona. This timely resolution allows fans of the Rams and Vikings to easily plan their travels. The Rams even sent two planes to transport players, families, and pets, and the league ensured that the Arizona venue would feel like a home game for the Rams by sending over the right colored paint for the end zones. More importantly, the change allowed much-needed resources to focus on the wildfire threat in Southern California.

On Saturday, the AFC took center stage with the beginning of the playoffs, and here are some of the key takeaways from the day’s games.

• Lamar Jackson shone bright during the Ravens’ matchup with the Steelers, showcasing impressive pocket movement on a touchdown pass that pushed the Ravens ahead, 20-0. Jackson looked focused, admitting he didn’t even want to speak to his mom during the game, saying, “I was just chill,” after the victory.
• The Ravens demonstrated physical dominance with a rush-heavy game plan. Their second touchdown drive consisted of 13 consecutive runs, showcasing not only Jackson’s skills but also proving detrimental to the Steelers defense, who struggled throughout the game. The Ravens ended with 299 rushing yards.
• On the defensive side, the Ravens defense was impressive. They limited the Steelers to just 17 plays in the first half, maintaining control of the game with nearly 20 more minutes of possession.
• Houston Texans played a pivotal role in the Wild Card matchups, pulling off an unexpected win against the Chargers, 32-12. Although the Chargers had been ranked with a strong offense this season, they looked overwhelmed by the Texans’ defense. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert threw four interceptions, including a decisive pick-six.
• This victory is significant for the Texans, who have moved to the Divisional Round for a second consecutive year, despite being seen as underdogs in the playoffs.

As the playoffs continue, both the Ravens and Texans are making their marks and shaking off the past demons of previous seasons. Notably, the performance of coaches and players is under scrutiny as the season unfolds and teams look forward to more playoff football.

With the second round of the playoffs on the horizon, fans can anticipate more exciting matchups and heroic performances on the field.