Sports Betting Picks

Baltimore Ravens vs Buffalo Bills – NFL Divisional Playoffs Preview – Jan 19, 2025

The Baltimore Ravens (12-5) travel to Highmark Stadium to take on the Buffalo Bills (13-4) on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 6:30 PM ET in the AFC Divisional Playoffs. This game features two top teams and two of the league’s brightest stars, Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, battling for a spot in the AFC Championship Game.

These teams met earlier this season, with Baltimore dominating Buffalo in a 35-10 victory on September 29. Derrick Henry rushed for 199 yards, including an 87-yard touchdown, in that matchup. Both teams enter the game in strong form, with Baltimore coming off a 28-14 win over the Steelers and Buffalo rolling past the Broncos 31-7 in the Wild Card round.

Baltimore Ravens Preview – Ground Game Sets the Tone

The Ravens feature the NFL’s top-ranked offense, averaging 427.1 yards per game. Derrick Henry has been a force, leading the league with 1,921 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns in the regular season. Against Pittsburgh last week, he carried 26 times for 186 yards and two scores, showcasing his ability to dominate postseason defenses.

Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP, continues to lead Baltimore with his dual-threat ability. He passed for 175 yards and two touchdowns last week, complementing the ground attack. The Ravens also benefit from tight end Mark Andrews as a reliable target in the passing game.

Defensively, the Ravens are stout against the run, allowing just 113.4 rushing yards per game. Linebacker Roquan Smith anchors a unit that thrives on limiting big plays and creating turnovers. The defense will look to pressure Josh Allen and force mistakes to control the game.

Buffalo Bills Preview – Allen Looks to Break Through

The Bills have been one of the most consistent teams in the AFC, led by Josh Allen, who threw for 4,226 yards and 36 touchdowns during the regular season. In last week’s win over Denver, Allen passed for 278 yards and two scores, continuing his strong postseason play.

Bills running back James Cook provides balance to the offense, while receivers Amari Cooper and Khalil Shakir are key targets for Allen. The offensive line, however, faces a tough challenge against Baltimore’s pass rush, led by Kyle Van Noy and Roquan Smith.

Buffalo’s defense, ranked 17th overall, will need to improve against Baltimore’s high-powered offense. The unit is led by Von Miller, who will look to disrupt Jackson and contain Henry. Buffalo must also focus on limiting explosive plays, particularly on the ground.

Betting Prediction

The Ravens are slight 1-point favorites, with the total set at 51.5. Baltimore’s dominant running game and strong defense give them an edge in this matchup. However, Buffalo’s home-field advantage and Allen’s ability to make big plays keep them in the conversation.

Projected final score: Ravens 27, Bills 24. Baltimore should cover the spread, with the total going over as both offenses find success.

Pick: Ravens -1, Over 51.5

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