ClutchPoints
For the first time in over a month, the Baltimore Ravens had something to celebrate on Sunday. A victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 8 reignited faint playoff hopes for a team that’s been searching for identity and consistency all season. Even without Lamar Jackson, the Ravens looked more like the gritty, opportunistic squad that once terrified the AFC.
Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley played his role perfectly. He mixed efficiency with composure. Huntley completed 17 of 22 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown while adding 53 rushing yards. He gave Baltimore’s offense a rhythm it sorely lacked in recent weeks. Defensively, the Ravens came alive again. They forced turnovers, got pressure, and closed the game with a clutch interception by Nate Wiggins that set up the final touchdown.
The 30-16 win improved Baltimore’s record to 2-5. It’s not ideal but manageable given the circumstances. With Jackson’s return on the horizon and a softening schedule ahead, the Ravens might be the sleeping contender nobody wants to face down the stretch.
Here we’ll try to look at why the Baltimore Ravens are still playoff contenders with Lamar Jackson coming back after beating Bears.
Huntley deserves every bit of credit for how he handled this opportunity. Called upon late in the week to start in place of Jackson, Huntley delivered smart, controlled football.
Huntley’s dual-threat ability kept Chicago’s defense guessing. That’s especially true in key moments when he escaped collapsing pockets or extended drives with his legs. Beyond the numbers, it was his calm demeanor that stood out. Huntley never looked rattled, even when the Bears tightened coverage or brought pressure.
This win reinforces their confidence in Huntley as a reliable insurance policy for Jackson. He’s not flashy, but he’s efficient. His ability to command the offense under pressure could prove invaluable as the season grinds on.
Sunday also marked the return of linebacker Roquan Smith. His impact was immediate. Facing his former team for the first time since being traded to Baltimore, Smith was all over the field. He posted a game-high 12 tackles and restored order to a defense that had looked disjointed without him.
Smith’s communication and leadership in the middle of the field gave the Ravens defensive structure. They looked cohesive again, shutting down Chicago’s rushing attack. They also forced quarterback Caleb Williams into uncomfortable throws. The Bears, who came in on a four-game winning streak, were held to just 16 points and a paltry 4.3 yards per play.
Baltimore’s defense hasn’t been perfect this season. However, when Smith is healthy, the difference is night and day. His ability to read offenses, call adjustments, and plug running lanes is exactly what the Ravens need to reestablish themselves as a top-tier unit.
One of the most encouraging signs from Week 8 was the resurgence of wide receiver Zay Flowers. After...
