Ravens vs. Bills: AFC Divisional Playoff Preview, Key Insights, and Betting Analysis

The Baltimore Ravens (12-5) are set to face the Buffalo Bills (13-4) in a highly anticipated AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. ET. This matchup features two of the league’s premier quarterbacks, Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, both leading their teams through impressive seasons. The Ravens secured their spot by defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-14, while the Bills advanced after a commanding 31-7 victory over the Denver Broncos.

The Ravens boast a formidable offense, averaging 434 yards per game, ranking them first in the league. Their ground game is particularly potent, leading the NFL with 187.6 rushing yards per game. Running back Derrick Henry has been instrumental, amassing 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns during the regular season. Quarterback Lamar Jackson complements this with 4,172 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and only 4 interceptions.

The Bills’ offense is also impressive, averaging 362.8 yards per game. Quarterback Josh Allen has thrown for 3,731 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. The rushing attack, led by James Cook, contributes significantly, with Cook recording 1,009 yards and 16 touchdowns.

The Ravens are monitoring the status of wide receiver Zay Flowers, who is listed as doubtful due to a knee injury. Flowers did not participate in recent practices, raising concerns about his availability. Deonte Harty, another wide receiver, is questionable but has fully participated in practice.

For the Bills, running back Ray Davis, who suffered a concussion in the previous game, has been limited in practice but is expected to play, as the team did not elevate another running back from the practice squad. Offensive lineman Alec Anderson is also on the injury report with a calf issue.

The Ravens are slight favorites with a 1.5-point spread (-1.5). The moneyline odds are Ravens (-118) and Bills (-102), with the total points over/under set at 51.5. The line movement has seen the Ravens shift from underdogs to favorites, indicating significant betting interest in Baltimore.

In their regular-season meeting, the Ravens dominated with a 35-10 victory, showcasing their offensive prowess. The Bills have been strong at home, maintaining an 8-0 record at Highmark Stadium. However, the Ravens’ top-ranked rushing offense will challenge the Bills’ defense, which has allowed an average of 115.5 rushing yards per game.

The Ravens’ success heavily relies on their rushing attack, especially with Henry’s previous performance against the Bills, where he recorded 199 yards, including an 87-yard touchdown run. The Bills will need to focus on containing Henry to limit the Ravens’ offensive efficiency.

Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capability makes him a constant challenge for defenses, while Josh Allen’s arm strength and mobility provide the Bills with a dynamic offensive edge. The potential absence of Zay Flowers could impact the Ravens’ passing game, placing more emphasis on their tight ends and running backs in the receiving game.

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This matchup between the Ravens and Bills is poised to be a thrilling contest, featuring two MVP-caliber quarterbacks and potent offenses. The outcome may hinge on the Bills’ ability to contain the Ravens’ rushing attack and the Ravens’ capacity to pressure Josh Allen. With both teams demonstrating strong performances throughout the season, fans can anticipate a competitive and high-stakes game.