In the AFC Wild Card round, the Baltimore Ravens secured a 28-14 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, while the Houston Texans dominated the Los Angeles Chargers with a 32-12 win.
Ravens vs. Steelers: Ground Game Dominance
The Ravens’ offense was propelled by a formidable rushing attack, amassing 299 yards on the ground. Running back Derrick Henry led the charge with 186 yards and two touchdowns, setting a franchise playoff record. Quarterback Lamar Jackson contributed 81 rushing yards and added two touchdown passes, further solidifying his status as a dual-threat quarterback.
Defensively, Baltimore stifled Pittsburgh’s run game, limiting them to a mere 29 rushing yards. The Ravens’ defense also forced crucial turnovers, including a pivotal fumble recovery near their goal line and a pick-six by cornerback Marlon Humphrey, which shifted momentum decisively in their favor.
This loss marked the Steelers’ eighth consecutive playoff defeat under head coach Mike Tomlin, intensifying scrutiny over the team’s postseason performance.
Texans vs. Chargers: Defensive Mastery
The Houston Texans showcased a dominant defensive performance in their 32-12 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. The Texans’ defense effectively contained the Chargers’ offense, preventing any significant scoring threats throughout the game. This win propels the Texans into the AFC Divisional Round, where their next opponent will be determined based on the outcomes of other Wild Card games.
Both the Ravens and Texans demonstrated formidable strengths in their Wild Card matchups, setting the stage for compelling contests in the Divisional Round.
Ravens and Texans Advance in AFC Playoffs
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