Margins are razor-thin in the NFL, especially in matchups between Super Bowl contenders. One missed call, one blown coverage, or one sidelined player can be the difference between winning and losing.
The Baltimore Ravens are set to start their 2025 season at full speed, facing off with the Buffalo Bills. The importance of this game can’t be understated. The Bills knocked the Ravens out of the playoffs last season, giving Baltimore months to work for their revenge. This game could even end up determining seeding in the AFC playoff race if both teams live up to their preseason expectations.
Heading into the weekend, the Ravens are already one step behind their AFC Rivals. The team’s most recent injury report indicates that two key players could be out for the opener.
Ravens could be without Patrick Ricard and Isaiah Likely for season opener
Only four players were listed on the Ravens’ latest injury report, but it could still put them at a major disadvantage against the Bills. While new cornerback signing Jaire Alexander and guard Daniel Faalele were full participants Thursday, tight end Isaiah Likely and fullback Patrick Ricard did not practice.
Likely is expected to step into a bigger role this year after his impressive third season with the team. His versatility allows Baltimore to line up with two tight ends on the field, threatening defenses with both the run and the pass. Without him in the lineup, Mark Andrews and Charlie Kolar would be the team’s only tight ends on the active roster.
But Ricard might be the more impactful absence, especially in this game. His run-blocking skill is a major part of the team’s success on the ground. As NFL analyst Nate Tice pointed out, “Patrick Ricard potentially being out takes away a valuable tool for the Ravens offense to use.”
Buffalo’s defense has struggled to stop the run in the past. Last year, they ranked in the bottom half of the league in yards allowed per carry. With Ricard on the field, Baltimore could take advantage of the Bills’ weak front, overloading the line of scrimmage and driving the ball down the field with their rushing attack.
Especially if Faalele stays healthy, they’ll be able to overpower their opponents.
There’s still a chance that both players will suit up on Sunday. With a fully healthy roster, the Ravens should hold the advantage over their AFC foes. Let’s hope Ricard and Likely are able to make full recoveries by game time.