Ravens' defense delivers a highlight reel play that would make Ed Reed proud

The Baltimore Ravens earned a much-needed win over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. It was a complete team win, with the defense quickly becoming the star of the show from the first snap of the game.

They held the Bengals scoreless, which is their first shutout since last Christmas' win over the Houston Texans. It was the first time the opponent left the game with zero points since the Tennessee Titans on October 14, 2018. They pressured Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow all day, tallying three sacks. They also forced two turnovers.

Cornerback Marlon Humphrey intercepted his second pass of the season in the second quarter. Outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy had the other interception, picking off Burrow at Baltimore’s own seven-yard line. The moment that ensued, though, would make Ed Reed proud.

After returning the ball for 11 yards, Van Noy cleverly handed the ball to safety Alohi Gilman, who was hot on his heels. Gilman took it the rest of the way for Baltimore’s second defensive touchdown of 2025.

Ravens pull off Ed Reed-esque play for game-sealing score

There could not have been a better time for this play. Ravens’ fans were likely starting to stress seeing Burrow and company find a rhythm. All signs were pointing toward a touchdown to draw closer, until Van Noy stepped in the way. It was the perfect moment to shift the momentum back in the Ravens’ favor.

However, the timing of this was even crazier. Reed was at the team’s practice on Friday, where he delivered a speech to get the players prepared before a must-win matchup. Van Noy and Gilman clearly took his message to heart, providing the game-changing play that not only sealed the win but should also get the team rolling ahead of the final three-game stretch.

The Ravens were clearly reeling after losing two straight games to AFC North foes. This week’s revenge against the Bengals was clearly a different team, though. The offense made several splash plays, and the defense was everywhere. While mental errors continued to plague the group at times, it was obvious that the Bengals had no answers for them.

The Ravens will look to keep things rolling next week against the New England Patriots on Sunday Night Football.