The Baltimore Ravens enter the second half of the 2025 season with momentum but little margin for error as they attempt to claw back into playoff contention. Consecutive wins and the return of Lamar Jackson have shifted national perception, yet underlying concerns remain.
Jackson’s comeback performance against Miami energized a team that began 1-5, and analysts quickly moved Baltimore up power rankings. The offense looks revitalized when Jackson is healthy, and Derrick Henry’s resurgence has given the team a credible one‑two punch that can sustain drives and flip field position.
Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson, ESPN
Oct 30, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) looks on against the Miami Dolphins in the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Defensive struggles earlier in the year kept Baltimore rooted near the bottom of many midseason report cards, but recent improvements have been notable. Turnovers and pressure on opposing quarterbacks returned during the two‑game winning streak, prompting more optimistic assessments from outlets that previously graded the defense harshly.
Still, the broader picture tempers optimism: injuries depleted the roster through the first half, and the schedule provides few easy outs as divisional foes and top AFC contenders loom. Reporters and evaluators stress that Baltimore cannot afford additional setbacks and must protect Jackson while maintaining defensive consistency.
Front‑office moves and deadline activity gave Baltimore modest reinforcement, yet the team’s recovery hinges on depth and health. Specialists note that statistical gains in recent weeks must translate into sustained performance; short bursts of improvement are promising but not definitive proof of a full turnaround.
ESPN’s NFL Analysis Highlights Baltimore Ravens’ Silver Lining for Second Half of the Season
Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson, ESPN
Oct 30, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) warms up before a game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Baltimore has a reason to be optimistic for the second half of the season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Jamison Hensley for ESPN.
Second-half storyline: The Ravens don’t have much margin for error if they want to make the playoffs, but they have the NFL’s eighth-easiest remaining schedule. Baltimore’s next four opponents — the Vikings, Browns, Jets and Bengals — are a combined 10-23 (.303). Jackson has led the Ravens to the playoffs in each of the five regular seasons that he’s been healthy enough to finish.
For coach and players, the task is pragmatic: stabilize the defense, limit turnovers, and keep Jackson effective inside the pocket and in designed runs. If those elements remain steady, the team’s easier slate in upcoming weeks could allow it to climb into a Wild Card position and make a late push.
Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson, ESPN
Oct 26, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) on the sidelines before the game against the Chicago Bears at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
The season now becomes a test of resilience rather than potential. Baltimore’s silver lining is clear. The core can still compete, but margins are thin and every game carries heightened importance as the playoff race tightens.
Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson, ESPN
Sep 28, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) drops back to pass during the first half against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
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