Lamar Jackson primed to test Buffalo Bills defense in week 1 as Baltimore seeks redemption from past struggles (Getty Images) The Baltimore Ravens enter the 2025 NFL season as one of the league’s hottest title contenders, yet their first step toward a championship won’t come easy. Standing in their way are the Buffalo Bills, a team that has haunted Baltimore in recent years and one that thrives on home turf. For Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, this primetime showdown isn’t just about starting strong—it’s about rewriting an all-too-familiar narrative.
Ravens and Lamar Jackson must overcome Buffalo hurdle
Few quarterbacks are as electric as Lamar Jackson, but history has not been kind when he lines up across from Buffalo. CBS Sports analyst John Breech pointed out that Jackson has gone just 1-3 against the Bills, committing six turnovers across those contests. While he’s rushed effectively—averaging 50 yards per game—Buffalo’s defense under Sean McDermott has largely kept him contained.Josh Allen, fresh off an MVP campaign, only widens the challenge. Last postseason, Allen ended Baltimore’s Super Bowl dreams while stretching his streak of home victories to 11. That advantage, paired with Buffalo’s playoff pedigree, has experts leaning toward another Bills win, with Breech predicting a 30-23 Buffalo victory on Sunday night.Still, the Ravens are no longer the same team that fell short last January. General manager Eric DeCosta bolstered the roster with defensive depth and more reliable receiving options, giving Jackson the kind of support he’s needed to thrive. Rookie pass rusher Mike Green has already drawn buzz as a potential Defensive Rookie of the Year, adding bite to Baltimore’s defense.
Lamar Jackson’s revenge arc fuels Ravens’ hopes
If there’s one quarterback who thrives on proving doubters wrong, it’s Jackson. He accounted for 45 touchdowns last season, including nine games with three or more scores. NFL analyst Douglas Fritz believes Jackson will rise to the occasion again, predicting two passing touchdowns and one rushing score against Buffalo’s defense.Jackson’s ability to spread the ball also makes Baltimore dangerous. In his last big win over the Bills, he completed passes to seven different receivers, showcasing the kind of versatility that could frustrate Buffalo’s secondary. Wideouts Rashod Bateman and Zay Flowers, both primed for breakout seasons, are players the Bills cannot afford to overlook.Ultimately, Week 1 sets the stage for more than just a season opener—it’s a clash of two heavyweight quarterbacks, two title-hungry franchises, and two fanbases desperate for early bragging rights. For the Ravens, this game is about much more than standings. It’s about Lamar Jackson rewriting his story in Buffalo and proving that Baltimore belongs at the very top of the AFC.Also Read: Patriots’ depth chart for Week 1 reveals big names, shock inclusions, and hidden gems for 2025 NFL season