Baltimore Ravens (8-5) – Philadalephia Eagles (10-2): 19-24
It's hard to see legends fall, but that's what's happening in Baltimore. In the worst season of his career, Justin Tucker probably cost his team victory. The legendary Ravens kicker left many points on the way, too many to win a playoff-style game.
Philly in diesel mode
The Eagles did not find their rhythm at the start of the game, stifled by a Baltimore defense that was on point. Philadelphia's first four possessions? Punt, punt, punt, punt (and 14 miserable actions for 23 yards). Jalen Hurts (11/19, 118 yards, 1 touchdown, 9 carries, 29 yards, 1 touchdown on the ground) cannot complete any passes in the backfield.
Opposite, the Ravens fared a little better and scored the first touchdown of the match at the end of the first quarter via Mark Andrews (6 receptions, 67 yards, 1 touchdown). The extra point is missed by Justin Tucker… already.
The Tucker Shipwreck
After these first laborious drives, the Eagles changed their tune. Heading for Saquon Barkley (23 races, 107 yards, 1 touchdown), in the form of his life (and MVP contender?). The involvement of the ex-Giant allowed the visitors to turn things around to lead at half-time (12-14).
In the second half, Baltimore resumed with the same rhythm: that of a team which progresses but which cannot conclude. Lamar Jackson (23/36, 237 yards, 2 touchdowns, 8 carries, 79 yards) is struggling like hell, but the Eagles' aerial coverage tightens the stitches as they approach the goal. Twice, Justin Tucker then missed kicks (47 then 53 yards) which would have allowed him to get back in front.
Despite all the statistics in their favor (more yards in the air, on the ground, more first downs, more time of possession), the Ravens missed their chance. With a final strike from Barkley, Philadelphia hit the nail on the head in the fourth quarter and put Baltimore out of harm's way.
The Eagles therefore reach the 10-win mark and can continue to chase the Lions in the race for first place in the NFC. The Ravens, for their part, are moving away from the still victorious Steelers, and must avoid missteps so as not to put themselves in danger in the race for the play-offs in the AFC. The Justin Tucker question will surely be on everyone's lips in the days to come.
