The Buffalo Bills entered Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season as the team to beat but faced a setback against the Baltimore Ravens, who delivered a decisive 35-10 defeat at M&T Bank Stadium. Baltimore maintained a commanding lead throughout the game, with Derrick Henry coming close to a 200-yard rushing performance, and Lamar Jackson posting an impressive 135.4 passer rating.
Following this loss, the Bills’ record fell to 3-1, while the Ravens improved to 2-2 after previously losing their first two games of the season. This match could be significant in the AFC playoff picture as Baltimore begins to climb the AFC North standings.
In the aftermath of the Bills vs. Ravens game, we assess the standout performers and those who fell short.
Notable Performers:
Derrick Henry
Contrary to any doubts about Henry’s performance in his 30s, he demonstrated his prowess with a record-setting 87-yard touchdown run on the Ravens’ first offensive play. This marked the longest rush in Ravens history, surpassing the previous record of 82 yards held by Jamal Lewis and Le’Ron McClain. Henry showcased incredible speed, hitting a top speed of 21.29 mph, marking one of the fastest runs in the league this season. He finished with 24 carries for 199 yards and two touchdowns, reinforcing his crucial role in Baltimore’s offense.
Lamar Jackson
While Henry was the standout, Jackson also had a stellar performance. He completed 13 of 18 passes for 156 yards and two touchdown passes, while adding 54 rushing yards and a touchdown. Jackson’s effective play is vital as he continues to build chemistry with Henry, solidifying his status as a key player in the league.
Zach Orr’s Ravens Defense
Facing questions at the start of the season, the Ravens hired Zach Orr to replace Mike Macdonald, who became the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. Orr’s defense has gradually found its rhythm, restricting the previously explosive Buffalo offense to just 236 total yards and keeping quarterback Josh Allen without a touchdown for the first time since 2021. With continued improvement, the Ravens’ defense may soon rank among the best in the NFL.
Kansas City Chiefs
Despite a tough day where they potentially lost their star receiver to a torn ACL, the Kansas City Chiefs remain the last undefeated team in the AFC. Their earlier victory over the Ravens gives them a crucial advantage in the playoff race. Kansas City’s ability to navigate challenges early this season could be vital as they aim for a third consecutive Super Bowl.
Struggles:
Buffalo Bills’ Perception
After an impressive start to the season, the Bills now face scrutiny following their blowout loss to Baltimore. Questions are rising about their offensive capabilities, given that they had faced teams with defensive issues before this game. While quarterback Josh Allen has shown improved decision-making, the loss might shift the narrative about the team as they prepare for their next matchup against the Houston Texans.
Buffalo’s Receivers
While the Bills’ receivers had solid moments, this was the first game where they truly missed Stefon Diggs. Trailing significantly, the team lacked a reliable player to consistently create separation. Allen’s offensive performance suffered without a top-tier receiver to alleviate pressure, leading to unnecessary scrambles to make plays.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers experienced their first loss of the season against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 4. While there was an opportunity for the Steelers to maintain their AFC North lead, the Ravens’ significant win now places them just one game behind. With the competitive nature of the division, every match counts, and the Steelers will need to strive to maintain their winning record moving forward.