At a Glance
- 26-24 loss to Pittsburgh ends Ravens’ playoff hopes.
- Rookie kicker Tyler Loop misses a 44-yard field-goal attempt.
- Lamar Jackson finishes with 238 yards and 3 TDs.
- Why it matters: The game’s outcome and missed field goal highlight a turbulent season for the Ravens and set the stage for offseason changes.
By Morgan J. Carter (News Of Austin) The Baltimore Ravens were stunned when rookie kicker Tyler Loop missed a 44-yard field-goal attempt, leading to a 26-24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and ending their playoff hopes. Lamar Jackson threw for 238 yards and three touchdowns, but the season’s disappointment signals a turbulent offseason for the franchise.
Lamar Jackson said:
> “I’m definitely stunned, man… I thought we had it in the bag.”
Game Summary
The game began with a 40-plus yard run by running back Derrick Henry, but the Ravens’ offense stumbled after an illegal block by wide receiver Zay Flowers, costing them field position. Jackson connected on two long throws to Zay Flowers in the fourth quarter, but the defense faltered after safety Kyle Hamilton entered concussion protocol, allowing Aaron Rodgers to amass 294 yards and a 26-yard flip to Calvin Austin with 55 seconds remaining.
Jackson’s 28-yard gain on a fourth-down play from midfield set up a field-goal attempt that Loop missed, drifting right twice before falling wide of the uprights. Loop said he “mishit” the kick, adding that it was disappointing.
Tyler Loop said:
> “I mishit it. It was disappointing.”
- Jackson: 238 yards, 3 TDs
- Rodgers: 294 yards, 1 TD
- Loop: 44-yard attempt missed
- Ravens penalties: 9 for 78 yards
Season Context
The Ravens began the season 1-5, struggled with injuries, and split the next four games, including a home loss to Pittsburgh. With an 8-9 record, the loss to the Steelers was the final game of the 272nd regular-season matchup and left the team missing the playoffs for the second time in eight years.
Lamar Jackson added:
> “We were having a lot of penalties… proud of my guys.”
Head coach John Harbaugh’s 18th season ended without a playoff berth, and Jackson, who turns 29 this week, expressed that the loss was still too fresh to consider a return for a 19th season. Harbaugh said, “I love these guys.”
John Harbaugh said:
> “I love these guys.”
Key Takeaways
- Lamar Jackson’s season ends in disappointment after a 26-24 loss.
- Rookie kicker Loop’s 44-yard miss sealed the game.
- The Ravens finish 8-9, missing playoffs for the second time in eight years.
The missed field goal and the season’s outcome leave the Ravens in a state of uncertainty as they prepare for an uncertain offseason.
