For much of the 2024 season, the Kansas City Chiefs seemed poised to dominate the AFC yet again, their explosive offense and efficient defense reinforcing their Super Bowl favorite status. But as the playoffs loom, a worrying stat from Baltimore has caught their attention – and it might just shift the balance of power in the conference.
The Baltimore Ravens, a team notorious for defensive excellence, opened the season with uncharacteristic struggles. Through the first ten weeks, their defense was a liability, ranking near the bottom of the league in yards allowed. Critics were vocal, calling for major adjustments as opposing teams carved through their secondary with ease. However, since Week 11, the Ravens have flipped the narrative, becoming the NFL’s stingiest defense, allowing a mere 272.8 yards per game. It’s a transformation so dramatic that it has altered the postseason landscape.
The Baltimore Ravens practice in freezing weather for their Wild Card game against the Pittsburgh Steelers
Baltimore’s defensive resurgence was on full display during their 31-2 dismantling of the Houston Texans in Week 18. The Ravens limited Houston to just 211 yards, tallied five sacks, and forced a pivotal interception. The overhaul began after a team meeting following a nail-biting Week 10 win against the Cincinnati Bengals, where the Ravens surrendered a staggering 264 receiving yards to one player. This introspection led to key personnel changes, including the emergence of safety Ar’Darius Washington and linebacker Malik Harrison.
Statistically, Baltimore’s defense is peaking at the perfect time. According to Pro Football Focus, their pass coverage has been rated among the league’s best over the past two months, while ESPN Stats & Info highlights their improved third-down efficiency, holding opponents to a conversion rate of just 28% since Week 11.
Chiefs vs. Ravens: A playoff collision with everything on the line
For the Chiefs, this turnaround represents a direct threat. Baltimore’s defensive dominance is compounded by a four-game winning streak, including a commanding 34-17 victory over their Wild Card opponent, the Pittsburgh Steelers. If they advance, the Ravens would likely face the Buffalo Bills – a team they dismantled 35-10 earlier in the season behind a dominant rushing attack.
Kansas City isn’t without its own playoff pedigree, having narrowly defeated Baltimore in Week 1. But even in that contest, the Ravens showed they could go toe-to-toe with Patrick Mahomes and company. As Chiefs head coach Andy Reid told NFL.com this week, “The Ravens are built for January football. They’ve got the pieces to challenge anyone.“
Should Baltimore make it to the AFC Championship Game, they would once again meet the Chiefs – a rematch of last year’s showdown. The difference this time? Baltimore’s defense isn’t just competent; it’s terrifying. With Lamar Jackson playing some of the best football of his career and a defense firing on all cylinders, the Ravens are no longer a dark horse. They’re a legitimate Super Bowl threat.
As the playoffs kick off, the Chiefs must grapple with the question every AFC contender is now asking: Is Baltimore the real team to beat?
