Shorthanded Ravens fall to Colts in overtime

The Baltimore Ravens were not able to overcome being shorthanded as they lost in disappointing fashion to the Indianapolis Colts 22-19 in overtime.

Talent gap closed

This was a result that everyone should have been prepared for the moment Baltimore announced that seven starters were out. Even though the Ravens were and still are the better team, being without this many key players saw the talent gap close enough for the Colts to hand them a stunning defeat.

Mistakes and missed opportunities

In addition to the two teams being more closely matched than anyone could have anticipated before the season, Baltimore was not able to play clean when they needed it most.

A fumble from Lamar Jackson a little over midway into the 2nd quarter led to a Colts field goal, giving them a 10-7 lead over Baltimore.

It was not just that miscue that led to the Ravens’ downfall. Baltimore had five three-and-outs in the contest. This is simply unacceptable, ultimately leading to why they came up short in the contest. A team missing the volume of starters, combined with this many three-and-outs will lose more often than not. Baltimore was backed into a position where they had to play perfectly, and they were not able to.

Despite all of this, the Ravens nearly won the game in regulation. Justin Tucker attempted a 61-yard field goal to win it, but it did not have enough to get there. Tucker’s kick falling short is symbolic of how things played out for the Ravens. Almost being able to get the job done, but not having enough to finish.

Looking Ahead

The Ravens are going to have to put this disappointing loss behind them as they prepare for Week 4. Baltimore heads to Cleveland and this will be their toughest matchup so far. The Browns may have actually put it all together on both sides of the ball despite losing their best offensive player. Baltimore’s margin for error will be non-existent. A literal perfect game of football will be necessary if they are going to come away with a win. Baltimore will need a team effort as relying on Lamar Jackson to do everything himself is simply not sustainable.