The Philadelphia Eagles extended their winning streak to eight games on Sunday, holding off the Baltimore Ravens in a 24-19 showdown that highlighted the contrasting fortunes of two NFL heavyweights. While the much-anticipated duel between running backs Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry was solid but not spectacular, it was Justin Tucker’s uncharacteristic struggles that ultimately shaped the outcome.
Baltimore’s Justin Tucker, widely regarded as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history, endured another forgettable outing. Tucker missed two crucial field goals from 47 and 53 yards and botched an extra point attempt. His woes cost the Ravens seven points, pivotal in a tightly contested game where Baltimore couldn’t afford to squander opportunities.
Tucker’s only successful kick, a 50-yarder just before halftime, was a rare bright spot on a night when his confidence seemed shaken. The Ravens, now 8-5, fell 1.5 games behind the AFC North-leading Pittsburgh Steelers, raising questions about their playoff trajectory.
Philadelphia’s defense, ranked No. 1 in the league, was the game’s true star. Despite facing Baltimore’s top-ranked offense, led by the dynamic Lamar Jackson, the Eagles contained the Ravens’ potent attack.
Jackson, who threw for 237 yards and added 79 on the ground, was held in check at critical moments. Although he connected with Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely for touchdowns, Philadelphia’s defensive front consistently disrupted Baltimore’s rhythm. Coach Nick Sirianni praised his team’s physicality, emphasizing that matching Baltimore’s toughness was key.
While the Barkley-Henry showdown didn’t fully live up to its billing, both backs made significant contributions. Barkley, who bolstered his MVP credentials, rushed for 107 yards and scored a pivotal 25-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, giving the Eagles a commanding 21-12 lead.
Henry, meanwhile, totaled 82 rushing yards and added 29 receiving yards. Despite his best efforts, he couldn’t break through Philadelphia’s relentless defense.
The Ravens dominated time of possession in the third quarter but failed to capitalize due to Tucker’s missed field goals. Down 14-12, Baltimore’s offense stalled repeatedly in Eagles territory, wasting drives that could have altered the game’s momentum.
Philadelphia capitalized on Baltimore’s inefficiency. After Barkley’s touchdown, a field goal pushed the Eagles’ lead to 12. Jackson’s late 11-yard touchdown pass to Likely trimmed the deficit, but with only three seconds remaining, it was too little, too late.
Andrews tied Jamal Lewis’ franchise record for touchdowns (47) with his first-quarter score. Hurts delivered a 17-yard touchdown pass to Dallas Goedert and added a 1-yard sneak, showing poise despite early struggles. Eagles punter Braden Mann was instrumental in flipping field position, pinning the Ravens inside their 20-yard line five times.
The Eagles (10-2), leading the NFC East, host the struggling Carolina Panthers next Sunday, aiming to extend their streak to nine games. Meanwhile, the Ravens enter their bye week with plenty to ponder before visiting the New York Giants on Dec. 15.
In a season where every game matters, Sunday’s clash underscored the thin margins in the NFL — and the cost of missed opportunities. For the Ravens, regaining their composure, particularly in the kicking game, will be crucial as the playoff race tightens.
