In what looked like a sure-handed Ravens victory early on, and then another loss at the end of regulation, Mr. Reliable, Justin Tucker saved the day by kicking a game-winning 46-yard field goal with 5:27 remaining in sudden-death overtime.
The Ravens started the game strong (for a change), shutting out the Bengals 17-0 at the half. Cincinnati returned the favor by shutting out the Ravens in the second half, 17-0.
What’s amazing is how the Ravens almost let this one get away.
The Bengals were down 17-10 with two seconds left in the game; when Cincinnati QB, Andy Dalton launched a 51-yard Hail Mary pass into the end zone.
After being tipped at the goal line, Ravens strong safety, James Ihedigbo volleyed the ball, which was headed for the turf, straight up into the air, allowing Bengal receiver, A.J. Green to snag the ball out of midair for a game tying touchdown with no time left on the clock. It’s the first time I have ever seen a Hail Mary pass actually work.
It looked like the Ravens had found a way to lose yet another game, likely ending any chance at making it to the playoffs. Fortunately, Cincinnati was unable to score on their first possession after winning the toss going into OT.
While I am thrilled we are back in the win column, our offense, particularly our running game, looked worse than ever today.
We racked up a whopping 85 yards on the ground, with our longest run coming from backup QB, Tyrod Taylor. Ray Rice had another abysmal day, rushing for only 30 yards on 18 carries. This won’t get it done against the league’s top teams, especially on the road.
Baltimore needs to solve the, “run game riddle, Ray Rice not up the middle,” issue…fast.