For the Ravens to make a successful run to the playoffs, they need to keep making noise in November.
Baltimore (3-5) is riding a two-game winning streak and seems to be finally headed in the right direction. However, I liked what Lamar Jackson said after Wednesday's practice, when asked if back-to-back victories have given the Ravens a boost of confidence.
"Absolutely, but we have to stay locked in," Jackson said. "We can't get on the high horse just from winning two games in a row."
Jackson is right. At some point, the Ravens need an extended winning streak to reach the playoffs. The 18-week season is half over, and entering Week 10, the Ravens aren't where they expected to be.
That's why Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings (4-4) is pivotal. Ears will be ringing inside U.S. Bank Stadium, one of the NFL's loudest environments. Will the Ravens block out the noise and capture a victory they sorely need? Or will they suffer a defeat that sets them back and makes their path to the postseason even more challenging?
Here are my thoughts on the Ravens, all in 50 words or less: