The Baltimore Ravens, once the NFL's top team, are now 0-2 after a dramatic fourth-quarter collapse against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Baltimore Ravens, who boasted the NFL's best record last season, suffered a stunning 26-23 defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, marking their second consecutive loss to start the new campaign.
Despite their solid performance against the Kansas City Chiefs in their season opener, which ended in a heartbreaking loss, the Ravens were expected to dominate the Raiders on home turf. However, Lamar Jackson and the Ravens' offense struggled throughout the game, failing to sustain drives.
Ravens Stunned by Raiders Comeback, Fall to 0-2
The Raiders took the field in the fourth quarter down by 10 points, but a potent offensive drive led by Gardner Minshew resulted in a touchdown to tie the game at 23-23. Daniel Carlson's crucial field goal with just 27 seconds remaining gave the Raiders the lead.
The Ravens, led by Justin Tucker's renowned kicking abilities, had an opportunity to salvage the game with a late field goal. However, Tucker's 56-yard attempt in the first half missed wide, ultimately costing the Ravens the game.
Ravens Stunned by Raiders Comeback, Fall to 0-2
The Raiders' defense played a pivotal role in the upset, with Maxx Crosby recording two sacks against Lamar Jackson. Robert Spillane led the defense with 10 tackles and an interception.
Despite Lamar Jackson's 247 passing yards and a touchdown, the offense's inability to sustain drives proved detrimental. The Ravens went 3-of-11 on third down conversions, surrendering possession to the Raiders.
Ravens Stunned by Raiders Comeback, Fall to 0-2
The Raiders, on the other hand, excelled on third down, converting 5-of-11 opportunities. Davante Adams finished the game with nine catches for 110 yards, while rookie tight end Brock Bowers added nine receptions for 98 yards.
The Ravens' downfall was further compounded by Jackson's interception late in the game. As time expired, the Ravens attempted a desperate lateral play that proved ineffective.
The Raiders' improbable victory over the Ravens marked the first time Las Vegas has won in Baltimore since 2001. Antonio Pierce's crew defied expectations and delivered one of the biggest upsets of the NFL season so far.
Meanwhile, the Ravens must quickly regroup and prepare for a tough matchup against the New England Patriots next week.
