The Baltimore Ravens became the second team to reach double-digit victories in 2023 as they defeated Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams in overtime, 37-31. This was a back-and-forth affair that featured much more scoring than anticipated, and ended with a 76-yard punt return touchdown by backup returner Tylan Wallace.
The rainy conditions in Baltimore didn't halt the scoring as points were registered by both teams in all four quarters. Lamar Jackson moved to 10-0 against NFC opponents at home with this victory. He completed 24 of 43 passes for 316 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. He also led the Ravens in rushing with 70 yards on 11 carries. Odell Beckham Jr. had a nice revenge game against his former team with 97 yards and a touchdown on four catches, while tight end Isaiah Likely caught five passes for 83 yards and a touchdown.
Despite the losing effort, Stafford impressed on Sunday. He completed 23 of 41 passes for 294 yards and three touchdowns, while Kyren Williams rushed for 114 yards. Cooper Kupp caught eight passes for 115 yards and a touchdown, while Puka Nacua caught five passes for 84 yards.
Let's take a look at what transpired in Baltimore on Sunday.
Why the Ravens won
It looked like we were headed for a tie until Wallace housed that 76-yard game-winner in the extra period. The defense struggled against Stafford and the offense looked out of sync at times, but I still think this win says something about Baltimore.
Even when the Ravens were somewhat struggling in this weird game, they were able to come out on top, thanks to a special teams play. Maybe Baltimore didn't establish itself as the best team in the AFC in Week 14, but the Ravens still came out on top in a close game.
Why the Rams lost
The Rams' offensive performance will probably get lost in the shuffle, but it was very impressive. As for the defense? Not so much.
It's wild considering that the Ravens offense looked out of sorts at times and went 1-3 in the red zone, but still put up 449 yards of total offense. The Rams are absolutely a feisty team that's capable of beating anyone, but questions were raised about this defense on Sunday.
Turning point and play of the game
Wallace was only back returning punts due to Devin Duvernay's back injury. What a great decision by John Harbaugh, as the Oklahoma State product won the game for the Ravens.
This was just the fourth NFL punt return touchdown in overtime all time. Two of them happened this season, as the New York Jets downed the Buffalo Bills, thanks to an Xavier Gipson punt return touchdown in the season opener.
What's next
The Rams return to L.A. next week, and will host the Washington Commanders (4-9). As for the Ravens, they travel to Jacksonville to take on the Jaguars (8-5) on "Sunday Night Football" in Week 15.