OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Baltimore Ravens are determined to maintain their momentum this season, but they face a significant challenge with their ongoing struggles against the Cleveland Browns. When the Ravens travel to Cleveland this Sunday for a pivotal matchup, they hope to break a troubling trend at Huntington Bank Field, where they’ve suffered defeats in three of their last four outings.
Despite recent success, including division titles and playoff berths, the Ravens have found it difficult to secure wins in Cleveland. Ravens fullback Patrick Ricard shared insights on the rivalry, noting that the familiarity between teams often leads to intensely competitive matchups. “It feels like high school football in terms of [how] we all know each other,” Ricard remarked, emphasizing the physical nature of these encounters.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson’s injuries have contributed to the Ravens’ woes in Cleveland. In past seasons, he suffered significant injuries that impacted Baltimore’s performance. In 2021, a season-ending ankle injury halted Jackson’s game early in a lost effort. Last season, he missed the game altogether due to a knee injury, and in their last encounter, he was unable to match the performance of the Browns’ quarterback. This week, Jackson faced concerns again after he missed practice due to knee soreness; however, he returned to full participation, signaling he will start Sunday’s game. “It’s getting better,” Jackson affirmed.
As the Ravens gear up for the match, they are aiming to improve their record to 5-5 and have not achieved a sweep of the Browns since 2020. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh highlighted the Browns’ strengths, including a formidable defense and solid offensive line, which have made prior meetings tougher. The challenging weather conditions typical for Cleveland add another layer of complexity, with Harbaugh stating, “It’s going to be cold; it’s going to be rainy; it’s going to be windy.”
Historically, Harbaugh’s tenure began with significant dominance over the Browns, winning 23 of the first 27 matchups. However, since 2021, the Ravens have faced reversals, with four losses to Cleveland compared to three against Cincinnati. This trend has been unexpected, given the Ravens’ reputation as one of the most successful franchises in recent history, while the Browns have struggled overall.
Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton reflected on continuous improvement, noting his lack of awareness about their recent Cleveland record, a sign of the team’s focus on the present. “We just have to go win a game,” Hamilton said, emphasizing a forward-looking attitude.
Last year’s matchup saw the Ravens fall short despite being favored, a lesson in humility Harbaugh and his players are taking to heart. Middle linebacker Roquan Smith emphasized the importance of focusing on the present team rather than past losses. “It’s a completely new team, a completely new group,” Smith stated, urging the squad to approach the game with determination and resilience.
A win for the Ravens would not only bring them to the .500 mark but could also place them in a tie with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the top of the AFC North, should the Steelers lose. Nonetheless, Ravens players are well aware of the intensity awaiting them in Cleveland, with Harbaugh anticipating a fierce battle. “We know what that is. We understand what that always is,” he expressed. The Ravens are not just fighting for a win; they are striving to alter the narrative that has plagued them in Cleveland, determined to turn the tide in their favor this Sunday.