Ravens-Falcons first-half takeaways: Mistakes leave Baltimore trailing

The Baltimore Ravens and Atlanta Falcons faced off in a first-half performance marked by costly mistakes, leaving the Ravens trailing 14-9 at halftime. Despite controlling possession and rushing for 111 yards, Baltimore failed to capitalize on their statistical advantage. Tyler Loop provided a glimmer of hope, making all three of his field-goal attempts and closing the half with a 51-yard kick, putting the Ravens within five points.

Mark Andrews' missteps proved decisive in the first quarter, costing the Ravens an opportunity near the end zone with his drop and later a lost fumble that led to a touchdown for Atlanta's Jessie Bates III. Andrews had never previously lost a fumble in his career, and this was his first since 2019.

Baltimore outgained Atlanta 197-115 and controlled the clock for 19 minutes and 28 seconds, but their statistical dominance did not translate into scoring. The running game delivered 90 yards on 14 carries in the first quarter, with Derrick Henry contributing 57 yards on 12 carries and Justice Hill adding 26 yards on three attempts.

However, a stop at the 1-yard line and a third-down drop by Andrews forced Baltimore to settle for a field goal. The Ravens managed just one touchdown through Andrews' nine-yard reception, while Atlanta's offense produced a lone scoring drive.

Tyler Huntley showed signs of improvement late in the half, completing 11 of 18 passes for 97 yards without a touchdown or interception. However, Andrews' and Zay Flowers' third-down drops complicated his performance, and he was sacked twice. A separate sack of Flowers further contributed to the Ravens' three-team sacks.

Despite containing Atlanta early, the Ravens' defense struggled against Bijan Robinson, who rushed for 28 yards, and Atlanta capitalized on three third downs during a crucial possession after opening 0 for 3. These explosive passes helped Atlanta maintain its lead. Loop's accurate field goal kicking kept the Ravens within five points, but the ability to finish drives and eliminate mistakes will determine if Baltimore can mount a second-half comeback.