The Baltimore Ravens host the Detroit Lions on primetime Monday, in what should be a highly competitive and entertaining game. Kickoff is set for 7:15 CST at M&T Bank Stadium.

Recap: How They Got Here

Baltimore Ravens (1–1, 1–0 home)
After losing to Buffalo 41–40 in a heartbreaking fashion to start the season, the Ravens comfortably defeated Cleveland 41–17 in Week 2 to recover. Linebacker Roquan Smith returned a fumble for a touchdown, while Lamar Jackson threw four touchdown passes. Baltimore has had trouble managing time of possession and holding onto leads late in games, despite leading the NFL in scoring at 40.5 points per game.

Detroit Lions (1–1, 0–1 road)
The Lions dropped their opener at Green Bay before erupting in Week 2 with a 52–21 win over Chicago. Jared Goff has six touchdown passes and just one interception, while sophomore running back Jahmyr Gibbs served as a versatile rusher and receiver for this Lions offense. Detroit’s defense remains a question, giving up an average of 28 points per game, and several starters remain sidelined with injuries.

Keys to Watch

Baltimore’s Backfield: At the helm of the offense, Lamar Jackson can do it all, through the air or on the ground. It would not be surprising if he totaled over 300 yards combined. Opposite to him, there is the king: Derrick Henry. He was disappointing last week, but with a highly competitive game against a middling run defense, he is poised for a return to the throne. 

Detroit’s Offensive Line: The Lions boast one of the NFL’s top units, even after losing All-Pro Frank Ragnow to retirement, but they’ll be tested by Baltimore’s aggressive pass rush. Goff is nott mobile, so keeping him safe in the pocket is crucial to a successful passing attack.

Red Zone Efficiency: Baltimore has finished drives with touchdowns through two weeks, while Detroit has struggled at times, especially in Week 1 against the Packers. Converting inside the 20 could be the difference between a record above .500 for either squad.

Injuries: The Ravens will be without stud defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike, linebacker Kyle Van Noy, tight end Isaiah Likely and fullback Patrick Ricard. Detroit is also dealing with absences on defense, including pass rusher Marcus Davenport, while D.J. Reed and Kerby Joseph are questionable to play.

Recent History

The Ravens have dominated Detroit historically, winning six of seven all-time meetings. They met in Week 7 in 2023, with Baltimore winning comfortably 38-6. The last Lions victory came nearly 20 years ago, in a 35-17 win.

Outlook

Baltimore enters as a 4.5-point favorite on FanDuel and DraftKings. The Ravens currently have the league’s highest-scoring offense and home-field advantage, which could be the edge they need. Detroit counters with an equally explosive attack and a quarterback playing efficient football. The winner of this game will come down to which defense can stop these offensive juggernauts on crucial third downs and redzone possessions.

Prediction: Ravens will win 34-26, led by a strong performance on the ground from running back Derrick Henry. The Lions will make it a close game towards the end, but it’ll be too little too late.