As for last week, Lamar Jackson and the Ravens were perfect for their game showing great skill and style. Jackson was near-perfect on the field, passing for 280 yards and three touchdowns and rushing for 65 additional yards on the field. Forcing three turnovers with their defense and denying the opponent team to get more than ten points, the Ravens were equally formidable.
It not only gave Baltimore a playoff spot but also another chance to prove to fans they can accomplish well in the postseason. “Lamar was electric out there,” said head coach John Harbaugh. “This is the kind of momentum we want heading into January.”
Surely, after watching this Ravens’ performance – both on offense and defense lines – it is quite possible to award them an “A+” to be on the list of the most threatening teams in the league.
Seahawks: C
Opposite to all the entertaining teams, the Seattle Seahawks played on Thursted evening and only won that battle, though not looking very convincing. The Seahawks were fortunate to face a weak team when they squeaked past by scoring 17-13 though the match was not without some offensive blunders and int Poor defensive display.
Quarterback Geno Smith was inefficient and finished the job with 19 of 31 passing attempts for 220 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Kenneth Walker III was a bright spot in the running game but the offense looked out of sync for most of the night.
On the other hand, the Seahawks made uncharacteristic mistakes, especially on defense that made the game very close for comfort. As they say, a win is a win, but Seattle’s failure to reel in a weaker opponent only added questions about the team’s ability to handle future tougher opponents.
“It was not the best face that they put to the Super Bowl, but they won and that’s what counts,” remarked the Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll. “We know that we have to lighten things up if we have to recharge for a new attack.”
The “C” grade puts Seattle down as an unimpressive team that sparks little confidence in the players for the playoffs.
Looking Ahead
That is why, at the moment, some teams such as the Ravens are at the best shape necessary for playoffs while the Seahawks need to get their show on the road if they intend on proceeding to the playoffs. Week 17 has been enlightening on the topic of momentum and as more weeks are left before the end of the regular season every game counts.