Main Story

Baltimore’s 13-0 halftime lead collapsed into a 35-0 second-half rout by Cincinnati, exposing recurring offensive and defensive problems. At 4-3 and last in the AFC North, the Ravens face a pivotal stretch as injuries mount and Lamar Jackson’s availability remains uncertain. Coach Jesse Minter said the team must decide what kind of team it wants to be.

By the Numbers
  • Baltimore has been outscored 48-0 in second halves against AFC North opponents.
  • The Ravens have led at halftime in 6 of 7 games but were outscored after halftime in 5.
  • Cincinnati scored touchdowns on 5 consecutive drives after being held scoreless in the first half.
  • The Ravens are 0-2 in division play; the Steelers and Browns are each 5-2.
  • Joe Burrow threw for 292 yards and 4 touchdowns; Tee Higgins had 148 yards and a touchdown.
Yes, But

Jackson’s absence is significant, but Baltimore’s defensive collapse and inability to sustain its offense cannot be explained by the quarterback situation alone. The Ravens also face uncertainty on the offensive line after right guard Vega Ioane left with a knee injury.

State of Play
  • Jackson missed his third straight game, while Tyler Huntley was sacked 4 times.
  • Baltimore has lost 5 of its last 6 home games dating to last season.
  • The Ravens meet the 5-1 Buffalo Bills next; Buffalo is coming off a bye.
What’s Next

Baltimore needs sharper second-half adjustments, more reliable protection and a defensive response against Buffalo’s Josh Allen. Ioane’s status and Jackson’s potential return will shape the matchup, but the Ravens’ broader execution problems remain theirs to solve.

Bottom Line

The Ravens’ biggest concern is a pattern, not a single bad half: opponents are finding answers after halftime, and Baltimore has yet to show it can respond. With the division race tightening, the next game is an early test of whether the team can stop the slide.