AFC Championship 2024 Preview: Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Game Details

• Date: Sunday, January 28, 2024


• Time: 3:00 PM ET


• Location: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD


• TV: CBS


• Live Stream: Paramount+


• Odds: Ravens -3.5; O/U 44.5 (via Caesars Sportsbook)

Storylines

Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens, led by their dynamic quarterback Lamar Jackson, enter the AFC Championship game as the No. 1 seed, looking to secure their spot in Super Bowl LVIII. With a first-round bye and a commanding 34-10 victory over the Houston Texans in the divisional round, the Ravens are poised to make a deep playoff run.

Jackson was instrumental in Baltimore’s dominant performance against the Texans, showcasing his exceptional playmaking ability. He accounted for three touchdowns, including two rushing scores, and amassed 100 rushing yards, further cementing his status as one of the league’s most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks.

The Ravens’ defense, known for its relentless pressure and opportunistic play, will pose a significant challenge to the Kansas City Chiefs’ high-powered offense. Led by Pro Bowl defensive end Calais Campbell and veteran linebacker Justin Houston, Baltimore’s defense recorded an impressive 60 sacks during the regular season, ranking among the league’s top pass-rushing units. Their ability to generate pressure and force turnovers could be a game-changer against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs.

Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs, led by their superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes, are making their sixth consecutive AFC Championship appearance, aiming to reach the Super Bowl for the fourth time in five years. After securing a hard-fought 27-20 victory over the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round, the Chiefs are determined to extend their dominance in the AFC.

Mahomes, known for his exceptional arm talent and improvisational skills, will be looking to secure his first career postseason road win at M&T Bank Stadium. In last week’s victory over the Bills, Mahomes threw for 326 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to make plays under pressure. However, he will face a stern test against Baltimore’s stout defense, which ranks second in the league in scoring.

The Chiefs’ offense, led by Mahomes and a talented cast of playmakers, will need to find ways to exploit Baltimore’s堅固defense. Wide receiver Tyreek Hill and tight end Travis Kelce, both All-Pro selections, will be key targets for Mahomes, while running back Jerick McKinnon provides a versatile threat out of the backfield. The Chiefs’ offensive line, anchored by Pro Bowlers Orlando Brown Jr. and Creed Humphrey, will need to provide adequate protection for Mahomes and create running lanes for McKinnon.

Key Matchups

Baltimore Ravens Defensive Line vs. Kansas City Chiefs Offensive Line

One of the most critical matchups in this game will be the battle between Baltimore’s pass rush and Kansas City’s offensive line. The Ravens’ defensive line, led by Campbell and Houston, has the potential to wreak havoc on Mahomes and force turnovers. Their ability to generate pressure and disrupt the Chiefs’ timing could be a game-changer.

On the other side, Kansas City’s offensive line, led by Brown and Humphrey, will need to provide adequate protection for Mahomes and create running lanes for McKinnon. If they can neutralize Baltimore’s pass rush and establish a solid running game, the Chiefs will be in a good position to move the ball and score points.

Lamar Jackson vs. Kansas City Chiefs Defense

Another key matchup to watch will be Lamar Jackson facing off against the Kansas City Chiefs defense. Jackson’s ability to extend plays with his legs and create scoring opportunities from anywhere on the field makes him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league. He will be looking to exploit the Chiefs’ defense with his scrambling ability and accurate passing.

The Chiefs’ defense, led by Chris Jones and Tyrann Mathieu, will need to find a way to contain Jackson and force him into mistakes. They will need to generate pressure on Jackson and force him into making quick decisions, while also limiting his ability to escape the pocket and create big plays.

Prediction

This AFC Championship game promises to be a close and exciting contest between two of the league’s top teams. The Baltimore Ravens, with their dominant defense and dynamic offense led by Lamar Jackson, have a slight edge over the Kansas City Chiefs. However, the Chiefs, with their explosive offense led by Patrick Mahomes, are always a threat to score and can never be counted out.

The Ravens’ defense will be the key factor in determining the outcome of this game. If they can generate pressure on Mahomes and force turnovers, they will give the Ravens a significant advantage. However, if the Chiefs’ offensive line can protect Mahomes and create running lanes for McKinnon, the Chiefs have the firepower to outscore the Ravens.

Ultimately, I predict a close game, with the Baltimore Ravens emerging victorious with a score of 23-20. Their home-field advantage, coupled with their strong defense and dynamic offense, will be the difference-makers in this highly anticipated AFC Championship matchup.