Introduction
The AFC Divisional Round matchup on January 19, 2025, between the Baltimore Ravens and Buffalo Bills was a playoff classic, featuring two of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, in a high-stakes battle at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. The Bills’ 27-25 victory, officiated by referees Shawn Smith, Bryan Neale, Michael Banks, Greg Meyer, Dino Paganelli, Mark Pellis, and Bradley Rogers, was a testament to their ability to seize opportunities and execute in clutch moments. Despite Baltimore’s statistical dominance, Buffalo’s turnover-forcing defense and Allen’s heroics propelled them to the AFC Championship Game against the Kansas City Chiefs. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of Baltimore Ravens vs Buffalo Bills Match Player Stats, key moments, and strategic elements, offering original insights into this pivotal playoff clash.
Key Points
- The Buffalo Bills defeated the Baltimore Ravens 27-25 on January 19, 2025, in the AFC Divisional Round at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, advancing to the AFC Championship Game.
- Josh Allen led the Bills with 101 passing yards, 72 rushing yards, and 2 rushing touchdowns, outshining Lamar Jackson in a dual-threat showdown.
- Lamar Jackson threw for 254 yards and 2 touchdowns but had 2 turnovers, while Mark Andrews’ fumble and dropped 2-point conversion were pivotal in Baltimore’s loss.
- Buffalo’s defense forced 3 turnovers, converting them into 10 points, and their clutch execution in the final minutes secured a narrow victory.
Game Context and Significance
The Bills, the No. 2 seed with a 13-4 record, entered the game riding momentum from a 34-17 Wild Card win over the Denver Broncos, where Allen threw for 232 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Ravens, the No. 3 seed with a 12-5 record, advanced with a 28-14 Wild Card victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, powered by Derrick Henry’s 186 rushing yards. This game was a rematch of their Week 4 encounter on September 29, 2024, where Baltimore dominated 35-10, with Henry rushing for 199 yards, including an 87-yard touchdown. As 1.0-point home underdogs—a rare occurrence for Buffalo in the Super Bowl era—the Bills faced immense pressure to end a four-year AFC Championship drought, while Baltimore sought their second straight conference title game appearance.
Detailed Recap
The game began with Baltimore asserting control, as Lamar Jackson led a 75-yard, 10-play drive, culminating in a 16-yard touchdown pass to Rashod Bateman for a 7-0 lead. Buffalo answered swiftly, with Josh Allen orchestrating an 11-play, 70-yard drive, capped by Ray Davis’ 3-yard touchdown run to tie it at 7-7. In the second quarter, the Bills seized momentum when Damar Hamlin forced a fumble on Jackson, recovered by Von Miller for a 22-yard return, setting up Allen’s 1-yard quarterback sneak touchdown (14-7). Baltimore responded with a 26-yard field goal by Justin Tucker, but a pass interference call on Tre’Davious White gifted Buffalo a 29-yard gain, leading to Allen’s 13-yard rushing touchdown with 16 seconds left in the half, giving the Bills a 21-10 lead.
The third quarter saw Baltimore fight back, with Henry’s 17-yard run on third-and-1 sparking a drive that ended in a 47-yard Tucker field goal, narrowing the gap to 21-13. Early in the fourth, Henry’s 4-yard touchdown run, set up by a 42-yard catch by Bateman, brought the score to 21-19 after a failed 2-point attempt (Jackson’s pass to Likely was incomplete). With momentum shifting, Baltimore drove to the Buffalo 40, but Mark Andrews’ fumble, forced and recovered by Terrel Bernard at the 31-yard line, was a turning point. Buffalo capitalized with a 51-yard field goal by Tyler Bass, extending the lead to 24-19. The Ravens’ defense forced a three-and-out, and Jackson answered with a 24-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Likely with 1:44 remaining, but Andrews’ dropped 2-point conversion kept the score at 24-25. Bass’ 21-yard field goal with 3:31 left forced Baltimore to chase a touchdown, and Rasul Douglas’ recovery of Tucker’s onside kick, followed by Ty Johnson’s 17-yard run, sealed the Bills’ victory.
Player Performances and Statistics
Below are the detailed statistics for key players, showcasing their contributions to this tightly contested game:
Buffalo Bills Player Stats
- Josh Allen (QB): 12/18, 101 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT, 80.8 passer rating; 10 rushes, 72 yards, 2 TD (1, 13 yards); +8 plus-minus
- Allen was the game’s MVP, leveraging his legs to score two rushing touchdowns and convert 3/4 third-down runs. His 13-yard touchdown scramble, weaving through defenders, was a highlight, and his 8-yard completion to Curtis Samuel on third-and-5 sustained a drive that led to the 51-yard field goal. Despite modest passing stats, his zero turnovers and clutch plays were decisive.
- James Cook (RB): 14 rushes, 58 yards, 0 TD; 2 receptions, 12 yards; +6 plus-minus
- Cook averaged 4.1 yards per carry, with a 21-yard run on the opening drive setting up Davis’ touchdown. His physical running helped control the clock, particularly in the third quarter, reducing Baltimore’s possessions.
- Ray Davis (RB): 6 rushes, 18 yards, 1 TD (3 yards); 1 reception, 6 yards; +4 plus-minus
- The rookie’s 3-yard touchdown tied the game early, showcasing his nose for the end zone. His limited carries reflected Buffalo’s reliance on Allen’s mobility.
- Khalil Shakir (WR): 3 receptions, 34 yards, 0 TD; +5 plus-minus
- Shakir’s 34-yard catch was Buffalo’s longest play, sparking the opening touchdown drive. Targeted only four times, he was limited by Baltimore’s tight coverage, particularly from Kyle Hamilton.
- Curtis Samuel (WR): 2 receptions, 15 yards, 0 TD; +3 plus-minus
- Samuel’s 8-yard catch on third-and-5 in the fourth quarter was clutch, extending a drive that ended in Bass’ 51-yard field goal. His speed stretched Baltimore’s defense.
- Dalton Kincaid (TE): 2 receptions, 22 yards, 0 TD; +2 plus-minus
- Kincaid’s 12-yard catch on second-and-10 helped sustain a drive, but he was overshadowed by Baltimore’s focus on stopping Allen’s deep throws.
- Terrel Bernard (LB): 8 tackles (6 solo), 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery
- Bernard’s forced fumble and recovery on Andrews at the Buffalo 31 with 8:41 left was the game’s turning point, leading to Bass’ 51-yard field goal. His coverage on Likely and Andrews limited Baltimore’s tight ends.
- Damar Hamlin (S): 5 tackles (3 solo), 1 forced fumble
- Hamlin’s tackle on Jackson forced a fumble recovered by Miller, setting up Allen’s 1-yard touchdown. His emotional return from a 2023 cardiac arrest added a narrative layer to his impact.
- Von Miller (LB): 3 tackles, 1 fumble recovery (22 yards)
- Miller’s recovery of Jackson’s fumble and 22-yard return shifted momentum in the second quarter, showcasing his veteran savvy.
- Greg Rousseau (DE): 4 tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss
- Rousseau’s third-quarter sack on Jackson forced a field goal, disrupting a red-zone opportunity. His pressure was constant, with 2 quarterback hits.
- Tyler Bass (K): 2/2 FG (51, 21 yards), 3/3 XP
- Bass was perfect, with his 51-yard field goal extending the lead to 24-19 and his 21-yard kick forcing Baltimore to chase a touchdown. His reliability was critical in a low-scoring game.
| Player | Position | Passing | Rushing | Receiving | Key Defensive Stats | Plus/Minus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Allen | QB | 12/18, 101 yds, 0 TD, 0 INT | 10 rushes, 72 yds, 2 TD | – | – | +8 |
| James Cook | RB | – | 14 rushes, 58 yds | 2 rec, 12 yds | – | +6 |
| Ray Davis | RB | – | 6 rushes, 18 yds, 1 TD | 1 rec, 6 yds | – | +4 |
| Khalil Shakir | WR | – | – | 3 rec, 34 yds | – | +5 |
| Curtis Samuel | WR | – | – | 2 rec, 15 yds | – | +3 |
| Dalton Kincaid | TE | – | – | 2 rec, 22 yds | – | +2 |
| Terrel Bernard | LB | – | – | – | 8 tackles, 1 FF, 1 FR | – |
| Damar Hamlin | S | – | – | – | 5 tackles, 1 FF | – |
| Von Miller | LB | – | – | – | 3 tackles, 1 FR (22 yds) | – |
| Greg Rousseau | DE | – | – | – | 4 tackles, 1 sack, 1 TFL | – |
| Tyler Bass | K | 2/2 FG (51, 21 yds), 3/3 XP | – | – | – | – |
Baltimore Ravens Player Stats
- Lamar Jackson (QB): 18/25, 254 yards, 2 TD (16, 24 yards), 1 INT, 113.7 passer rating; 6 rushes, 39 yards, 0 TD; -2 plus-minus
- Jackson was electric, completing 72% of his passes and throwing touchdowns to Bateman and Likely. His 42-yard pass to Bateman and 24-yard touchdown to Likely showcased his arm strength, but his fumble (forced by Hamlin) and interception (by Taylor Rapp) led to 7 Buffalo points. His 12-yard scramble converted a third-and-8, but pressure from Rousseau and Matt Milano limited his rushing impact.
- Derrick Henry (RB): 16 rushes, 84 yards, 1 TD (4 yards); 1 reception, 6 yards; +1 plus-minus
- Henry powered Baltimore’s ground game, scoring a 4-yard touchdown and gaining 17 yards on a third-and-1 play. His 5.3 yards per carry were solid, but Buffalo’s stacked box (8 defenders on 60% of runs) prevented a repeat of his 199-yard Week 4 performance.
- Rashod Bateman (WR): 4 receptions, 66 yards, 1 TD (16 yards); +3 plus-minus
- With Zay Flowers sidelined (knee injury), Bateman was Jackson’s go-to target, scoring on a 16-yard slant and adding a 42-yard catch that set up Henry’s touchdown. His 16.5 yards per catch stretched Buffalo’s secondary.
- Isaiah Likely (TE): 3 receptions, 48 yards, 1 TD (24 yards); +2 plus-minus
- Likely’s 24-yard touchdown with 1:44 left gave Baltimore a chance to tie, but Milano’s coverage limited him to three catches. His 16.0 yards per catch highlighted his big-play ability.
- Mark Andrews (TE): 3 receptions, 36 yards, 0 TD; 1 rush, 2 yards; 1 fumble lost; -5 plus-minus
- Andrews had a costly game, fumbling after a 16-yard catch (forced by Bernard) and dropping a 2-point conversion that would have tied the score at 27-27. His 2-yard rush converted a fourth-and-1, but his errors were game-altering.
- Justice Hill (RB): 5 rushes, 22 yards, 0 TD; 2 receptions, 14 yards; -1 plus-minus
- Hill’s 11-yard run converted a third-and-2, but a 2-yard loss on a pitch play, tackled by A.J. Epenesa, stalled a drive. His role as a change-of-pace back was limited by Buffalo’s run defense.
- Nelson Agholor (WR): 2 receptions, 28 yards, 0 TD; 0 plus-minus
- Agholor’s 20-yard catch on third-and-7 kept a drive alive, but he was a secondary option with Flowers absent.
- Roquan Smith (LB): 10 tackles (7 solo), 1 tackle for loss
- Smith was a tackling machine, stopping Cook for no gain on a first-down play, but he missed a tackle on Allen’s 13-yard touchdown run, allowing Buffalo to extend their lead.
- Kyle Hamilton (S): 7 tackles, 1 pass defended
- Hamilton broke up a pass to Shakir but struggled to contain Allen’s scrambling, as Buffalo schemed to exploit his spy role with misdirection.
- Marlon Humphrey (CB): 5 tackles, 1 pass defended
- Humphrey limited Samuel to 2 catches but was beaten on Shakir’s 34-yard gain, though he recovered to force an incompletion later.
- Justin Tucker (K): 2/2 FG (47, 26 yards), 1/1 XP
- Tucker was perfect on field goals, but his onside kick was recovered by Rasul Douglas, ending Baltimore’s comeback hopes.
| Player | Position | Passing | Rushing | Receiving | Key Defensive Stats | Plus/Minus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lamar Jackson | QB | 18/25, 254 yds, 2 TD, 1 INT | 6 rushes, 39 yds | – | – | -2 |
| Derrick Henry | RB | – | 16 rushes, 84 yds, 1 TD | 1 rec, 6 yds | – | +1 |
| Rashod Bateman | WR | – | – | 4 rec, 66 yds, 1 TD | – | +3 |
| Isaiah Likely | TE | – | – | 3 rec, 48 yds, 1 TD | – | +2 |
| Mark Andrews | TE | – | 1 rush, 2 yds | 3 rec, 36 yds | 1 fumble lost | -5 |
| Justice Hill | RB | – | 5 rushes, 22 yds | 2 rec, 14 yds | – | -1 |
| Nelson Agholor | WR | – | – | 2 rec, 28 yds | – | 0 |
| Roquan Smith | LB | – | – | – | 10 tackles, 1 TFL | – |
| Kyle Hamilton | S | – | – | – | 7 tackles, 1 PD | – |
| Marlon Humphrey | CB | – | – | – | 5 tackles, 1 PD | – |
| Justin Tucker | K | 2/2 FG (47, 26 yds), 1/1 XP | – | – | – | – |
Team Statistics and Comparison
The following table summarizes the team statistics, highlighting Baltimore’s yardage advantage but Buffalo’s edge in turnovers and red-zone efficiency:
| Statistic | Ravens | Bills |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 389 | 254 |
| Passing Yards | 254 | 101 |
| Rushing Yards | 135 | 153 |
| First Downs | 22 | 15 |
| Third Down Efficiency | 7/10 (70.0%) | 4/10 (40.0%) |
| Fourth Down Efficiency | 1/1 (100%) | 0/0 (0.0%) |
| Turnovers | 3 (2 fumbles, 1 INT) | 0 |
| Sacks Allowed | 1 for 7 yards | 0 |
| Penalties | 5 for 35 yards | 4 for 30 yards |
| Time of Possession | 34:12 | 25:48 |
| Red Zone Efficiency | 2/3 (66.7%) | 3/4 (75.0%) |
Baltimore’s 389-254 yardage edge and 70% third-down conversion rate reflected their offensive control, but their 3 turnovers, which led to 10 Buffalo points, were the difference. Buffalo’s 153 rushing yards, driven by Allen’s 72, outpaced Baltimore’s 135, a reversal from their Week 4 loss where the Ravens ran for 271 yards.
Strategic Insights and Analysis
Buffalo’s game plan, crafted by coach Sean McDermott and offensive coordinator Joe Brady, centered on Allen’s mobility and defensive opportunism. The Bills ran 34 times for 153 yards, with Allen’s 10 carries for 72 yards and 2 touchdowns exploiting Baltimore’s focus on stopping the pass. Defensively, Steve Wilks’ unit blitzed Jackson on 30% of dropbacks, generating 5 pressures and forcing 2 turnovers. Bernard’s fumble recovery and Hamlin’s forced fumble were game-changers, while McDermott’s decision to kick a 21-yard field goal on fourth-and-goal from the 2-yard line with 3:31 left was a calculated move, forcing Baltimore to score a touchdown and convert a 2-point attempt.
Baltimore, under John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Todd Monken, leaned on their league-leading rushing attack (182.1 yards per game in the regular season), with Henry and Hill combining for 106 yards. Jackson’s 254 passing yards and 2 touchdowns showcased his growth as a passer, but his 2 turnovers and Andrews’ fumble underscored Baltimore’s vulnerability in high-pressure moments. Defensively, Zach Orr’s unit struggled to contain Allen’s scrambling, as Buffalo’s misdirection plays and quick passes neutralized Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton. The Ravens’ 5 penalties, including White’s pass interference, extended Buffalo drives, while their failed 2-point attempts (0/2) were critical in a 2-point loss.
Key Moments and Turning Points
- Bateman’s Opening Touchdown (Q1): Jackson’s 16-yard touchdown pass to Bateman capped a 75-yard drive, giving Baltimore a 7-0 lead and setting an aggressive tone.
- Hamlin’s Forced Fumble (Q2): Hamlin’s tackle on Jackson forced a fumble, recovered by Miller for a 22-yard return, leading to Allen’s 1-yard touchdown sneak and a 14-7 Buffalo lead.
- Allen’s 13-Yard TD Run (Q2): Allen’s weaving 13-yard touchdown run with 16 seconds left in the half, aided by a 29-yard pass interference penalty on White, gave Buffalo a 21-10 halftime lead.
- Andrews’ Fumble (Q4): Bernard’s forced fumble and recovery on Andrews at the Buffalo 31 with 8:41 left halted a promising Ravens drive, leading to Bass’ 51-yard field goal (24-19).
- Failed 2-Point Conversion (Q4): Andrews’ drop of Jackson’s 2-point pass after Likely’s 24-yard touchdown kept the score at 24-25, forcing Baltimore to chase a field goal rather than a tie.
- Bass’ Final Field Goal (Q4): Bass’ 21-yard field goal with 3:31 left made it 27-25, putting pressure on Baltimore to score a touchdown, which they couldn’t achieve after Douglas recovered the onside kick.
Playoff Context and Series Implications
Buffalo’s victory marked their first AFC Championship Game appearance since 2020, setting up a blockbuster rematch with the Kansas City Chiefs, whom they defeated 30-21 in Week 11. Josh Allen improved to 6-3 in playoff games, with his 2 rushing touchdowns tying a Bills’ postseason record. For Baltimore, the loss dropped Lamar Jackson to 2-5 in the playoffs, with his 3 turnovers in this game adding to a narrative of postseason struggles. The Ravens’ 12-6 overall record was a strong showing, but their inability to close out tight games remains a hurdle. Baltimore’s offseason will focus on re-signing key free agents like Justin Madubuike and addressing Flowers’ injury.
Historical Context
The Bills and Ravens have developed a competitive rivalry, with this being their third meeting since 2020, including a 17-3 Bills win in the 2020 Divisional Round. Buffalo’s 35-10 loss to Baltimore in Week 4 of 2024 set the stage for this playoff rematch, where the Bills flipped the script by neutralizing Baltimore’s run game and forcing turnovers. The 2024 season saw Buffalo (13-4) and Baltimore (12-5) as AFC powerhouses, with both teams ranking in the top 10 in scoring offense and defense. This game underscored Buffalo’s resilience and Baltimore’s need for postseason composure.
Looking Ahead
Buffalo faces a daunting challenge against the Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game, where Allen’s dual-threat ability will be tested against Patrick Mahomes’ passing prowess. The Bills’ defense, which forced 3 turnovers in this game, will need to replicate that performance to slow Kansas City’s offense. For Baltimore, the offseason will focus on bolstering their secondary and improving red-zone efficiency, as their 2/3 red-zone success rate and 0/2 2-point conversions were costly. With Jackson, Henry, and a young core, the Ravens remain a contender for 2025.
Conclusion
The January 19, 2025, AFC Divisional Round clash between the Baltimore Ravens and Buffalo Bills was a playoff thriller defined by big plays, costly mistakes, and clutch execution. Josh Allen’s dual-threat heroics and Buffalo’s turnover-forcing defense overcame Baltimore’s yardage advantage, securing a 27-25 victory. Lamar Jackson’s dynamic performance was marred by turnovers, and Mark Andrews’ errors proved fatal in a game decided by inches. As Buffalo advances to face Kansas City, this game will be remembered as a testament to their resilience and a reminder of Baltimore’s postseason challenges.
