Introduction
The recent NFL clash between the Washington Commanders and the Baltimore Ravens was more than just a preseason exhibition or a mid-season fixture—it was a showcase of tactical discipline, player development, and performance under pressure. This intense matchup illuminated emerging stars, exposed gaps in team structures, and gave fans an in-depth look at both the Ravens’ seasoned excellence and the Commanders’ budding potential. Below, we break down this matchup through extensive player stats and interpretive analysis.
Game Overview
Played under crisp autumn skies at M&T Bank Stadium, the game saw the Ravens establish early control, only for the Commanders to mount a brief resistance before ultimately succumbing to the home team’s balanced strategy. Baltimore, led by Lamar Jackson, executed a polished offensive plan, while Washington, helmed by rookie Jayden Daniels, displayed flashes of promise but lacked consistency, especially in high-leverage situations.
Final Score: Baltimore Ravens 27 – Washington Commanders 13
Quarterly Analysis: The Ravens’ Path to Victory
First Quarter:
Baltimore opened with a structured offensive drive. Jackson connected with Zay Flowers twice, including a 28-yard gain, leading to a Tucker field goal.
Second Quarter:
Washington momentarily found rhythm through Daniels, culminating in a touchdown pass to Terry McLaurin. But Baltimore answered immediately with a methodical 75-yard drive capped by a short Henry rush.
Third Quarter:
The Ravens’ defense asserted dominance, forcing two three-and-outs. Lamar Jackson capitalized with a 22-yard rushing TD.
Fourth Quarter:
Commanders attempted a comeback, but were thwarted by an interception and a special teams miscue. Baltimore sealed the game with a late touchdown and suffocating defense.
Statistical Supremacy: More Than Just the Scoreboard
- Total Yards: Ravens – 412, Commanders – 289
- Rushing Yards: Ravens – 167, Commanders – 84
- Passing Yards: Ravens – 245, Commanders – 205
- First Downs: Ravens – 24, Commanders – 17
- Time of Possession: Ravens – 33:41, Commanders – 26:19
Baltimore’s edge in almost every statistical category underscored their strategic balance and superior in-game execution.
Analysis of the Quarterback Showdown: Jackson vs Daniels
Lamar Jackson: Paragon of Efficiency
- Completions/Attempts: 21/27
- Passing Yards: 245
- TDs: 1 passing, 1 rushing
- Interceptions: 0
- Rushing Yards: 58
Jackson’s poise in the pocket, combined with his dual-threat capabilities, allowed the Ravens to control tempo and manipulate defensive gaps consistently.
Jayden Daniels: Emerging Rookie
- Completions/Attempts: 19/33
- Passing Yards: 205
- TDs: 1
- Interceptions: 1
- Sacks Taken: 3
- Rushing Yards: 26
Daniels showed glimpses of brilliance, especially in second-down throws under pressure. However, inexperience surfaced through misreads and late releases.
Henry’s Dominance in the Second Half: A Transformative Influence
Initial Segment Henry
Derrick Henry was relatively quiet in the first half, with only 26 rushing yards on 7 carries. The Commanders’ interior defense held its own early.
Henry in the Second Half
Everything changed post-halftime. Henry tallied 81 yards and a touchdown on 12 second-half carries. His bruising runs wore down Washington’s front line, contributing to Baltimore’s fourth-quarter dominance.
Defensive Highlights: Detailed Impact Analysis
Transformative Players in the Ravens’ Defense
- Roquan Smith: 9 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble
- Kyle Hamilton: 1 interception, 3 pass deflections
- Justin Madubuike: 2 sacks, 4 QB pressures
Baltimore’s defense showcased elite gap control, aggressive pass rush, and lockdown secondary coverage.
Defensive Highlights of the Commanders
- Kamren Curl: 10 total tackles
- Chase Young: 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss
- Jamin Davis: 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery
While Washington had standout performances, their unit faltered in sustaining coverage against slot receivers and struggled on third downs (Baltimore converted 9 of 14).
The Significance of the Ground Game Disparity
- Ravens: 167 rushing yards (Henry 107, Jackson 58)
- Commanders: 84 rushing yards (Robinson Jr. 54, Daniels 26)
Baltimore’s commitment to the run wore down defenders and enabled play-action success. Washington’s lack of ground support left Daniels vulnerable and predictable in passing downs.
Comparison of Receivers: Flowers vs McLaurin
- Zay Flowers (Ravens): 7 receptions, 101 yards, 1 TD
- Terry McLaurin (Commanders): 6 receptions, 85 yards, 1 TD
Flowers’ crisp route-running and after-catch elusiveness were pivotal, while McLaurin remained the Commanders’ most reliable weapon despite tight coverage.
Special Teams Showdown: Missed Opportunities on the Field
Washington’s kicker missed a crucial 43-yard field goal in the third quarter that could’ve shifted momentum. In contrast, Justin Tucker was perfect, converting all kicks including two from beyond 45 yards.
A mishandled punt return by the Commanders in the fourth quarter gifted the Ravens field position that led to their final score.
Critical Milestones: The Moments of Victory
- Third Quarter TD by Jackson: Shifted game momentum irreversibly
- Fourth Quarter Fumble Recovery (Hamilton): Denied Commanders’ comeback
- Red Zone Efficiency: Ravens 3-for-3; Commanders 1-for-3
Each of these moments highlighted Baltimore’s composure and Washington’s lack of execution when it mattered most.
The Implications of These NFL Statistics for the Future
For the Baltimore Ravens, the synergy between Jackson and Flowers, and Henry’s resurgence, signals a playoff-caliber offense with elite defensive support. The defensive unit’s depth and versatility make them a legitimate threat in the AFC.
For the Washington Commanders, Jayden Daniels’ growth is evident, but he needs better protection and a reliable run game to flourish. Their defense, while promising, must improve in sustained coverage and third-down resilience.
Conclusion
The Ravens’ 27-13 victory over the Commanders was more than a win—it was a message. With Lamar Jackson at peak efficiency, Henry powering the backfield, and a stifling defense, Baltimore appears poised for another deep postseason run. Meanwhile, Washington’s developing core shows promise but remains a step behind, especially in high-stakes execution. The player stats from this matchup paint a vivid picture of two franchises at different stages—one seasoned and dominant, the other youthful and learning.
FAQS
1.Who led in total yards during the Washington Commanders vs Baltimore Ravens game?
The Ravens led with 412 total yards compared to the Commanders’ 289.
2.How did Lamar Jackson perform in this matchup?
Jackson threw for 245 yards, rushed for 58, and had 2 total touchdowns with no turnovers.
3.Did Jayden Daniels show progress as a rookie QB?
Yes, Daniels passed for 205 yards and a touchdown but struggled with consistency and pocket awareness.
4.Who were the standout defensive players for Baltimore?
Roquan Smith, Kyle Hamilton, and Justin Madubuike all had major impact plays, including sacks and turnovers.
5.What was the biggest turning point in the game?
Jackson’s third-quarter rushing touchdown followed by a late interception shifted momentum firmly toward Baltimore.
