As the 2023 NFL regular season approaches its final week, the Baltimore Ravens have asserted their dominance as the top team in the league and clinched a division title with a 13-3 record.
This achievement grants them a first-round bye and the advantage of playing all playoff games on their home turf up to the conference championship.
Over the past three weeks, the Ravens dominated on the road with wins by 16 and 14 points against the Jacksonville Jaguars and San Francisco 49ers, respectively. Their standout performance culminated in a 56-19 victory over the Miami Dolphins at home last Sunday.
A notable performance came from quarterback Lamar Jackson, likely sealing his second NFL Most Valuable Player Award. Jackson's stellar performance included five touchdown passes, contributing to a 158.3 passer rating against the Dolphins.
Despite missing starters Kyle Hamilton and Brandon Stephens in the game, the Ravens' defense remained resilient. Even after cornerback Marlon Humphrey sustained an early calf injury, the defense held its ground.
Notable contributions also came from Justice Hill, Isaiah Likely, Charlie Kolar and Patrick Ricard, who combined for four touchdowns.
With the playoffs on the horizon, the Ravens have set their sights on a Super Bowl victory.
AFC East showdown
While the Miami Dolphins (11-5) suffered a setback against the Ravens, the Buffalo Bills (10-6) secured another victory against the New England Patriots. This outcome has left the AFC East wide open as Week 18 approaches.
The upcoming matchup between the Dolphins and the Buffalo Bills on Sunday will ultimately determine the winner of the AFC East.
"We know what could be, but you definitely embrace that," Miami’s defensive tackle Christian Wilkins said. "It'll be fun and exciting in a lot of ways ... we wouldn't have it any other way.
Unfortunately, the Dolphins faced setbacks after their defeat to the Ravens. Tua Tagovailoa threw two interceptions, while the defense struggled to contain the opposition.
The loss of Bradley Chubb to a torn ACL adds to the defensive woes, with standout linebacker Jaelen Phillips already sidelined with a torn Achilles.
Wilkins, however, remains optimistic. He described the upcoming game as a great test and opportunity for the team.
"It will be a great test for us and a great opportunity for us, and you know, we'll be excited and ready for this next one," said Wilkins.
On the other hand, the Buffalo Bills have undergone a remarkable turnaround. They started with a 5-5 record and were seen as unlikely playoff contenders, especially after a home loss to the Denver Broncos.
Following the loss, the Bills switched offensive coordinators from Ken Dorsey to Joe Brady, a move that has significantly paid off.
Quarterback Josh Allen, who faced criticism due to his performance, has also reduced turnovers. He has even entered the MVP discussion, despite Jackson likely claiming the title.
Another key factor in the Bills' resurgence has been the improvement of their defense over the past six games.
The return of key players like corner Christian Benford, safety Micah Hyde and defensive tackle DaQuan Jones has bolstered the defensive unit. Linebackers Terrel Bernard and Tyrel Dodson have also stepped up, contributing to the team's success.
Having won four consecutive games, the Bills now stand among the league's powerhouses. Their only loss in the past five games was in overtime to the Philadelphia Eagles.