Ravens-Bills Week 8 preview: Josh Allen, injuries, and key numbers

The Baltimore Ravens are set to face the Buffalo Bills in Week 8, aiming to end their two-game losing streak. The Ravens enter the game at 4-3, while the Bills boast a 5-1 record and have just returned from a bye week. The Bills' offense is one of the most productive in the league, averaging 32.8 points per game and 387.7 total yards per game entering Week 8. For the Ravens, a win would be crucial to regain momentum in the AFC playoff race.

Buffalo's quarterback, Josh Allen, is approaching a historic milestone with 4,961 career rushing yards, just 39 yards away from reaching 5,000. Allen has already rushed for eight touchdowns this season, making him a significant threat near the goal line. The Ravens must maintain disciplined rushing lanes and prevent Allen from extending passing plays.

James Cook, Buffalo's running back, has amassed 627 rushing yards and six touchdowns this season, averaging 5.4 yards per carry. The Bills have utilized a physical running game with multiple tight ends and condensed formations to create favorable rushing opportunities. Baltimore coach Jesse Minter emphasized in a recent press conference that the Bills have become particularly effective at executing runs even when defenses recognize their intentions.

Last season, the Bills staged a historic comeback against Baltimore, trailing 40-25 with 3:56 remaining at the end of the first quarter. Quarterback Josh Allen led two late touchdown drives, and Matt Prater kicked a 32-yard field goal as time expired to secure a 41-40 victory for the Bills. This comeback serves as a reminder for Baltimore to maintain defensive discipline and not become overly conservative with a lead.

Ravens coach Jesse Minter announced on Friday that Lamar Jackson, the team's franchise quarterback, will return to play against the Bills. Jackson missed three consecutive games with a high ankle sprain and was fully involved in practice sessions. His return could force Buffalo to account for Baltimore's rushing game, potentially opening up opportunities for running backs Derrick Henry and Derrick Walker.

Both teams have injury concerns heading into the matchup. Baltimore will be without starting right guard Vega Ioane, who is recovering from an MCL sprain sustained against Cincinnati. Baltimore will also monitor the statuses of Kyle Hamilton, Roquan Smith, and Jaylinn Hawkins, who appeared on the injury report this week. Buffalo's injury concerns include offensive tackle Spencer Brown, tight end Dalton Kincaid, and linebacker Bradley Chubb. The team's final statuses could significantly impact crucial matchups.

A Ravens victory would improve Baltimore's record to 5-3, providing a much-needed confidence boost before their next stretch of games. Conversely, a loss would deepen the team's problems within an increasingly competitive AFC. The Week 8 matchup between these two dynamic teams features two of the NFL's most talented quarterbacks, but Baltimore's ability to run the football, control Allen, and finish defensive possessions will be critical in determining whether the Ravens leave Buffalo with a victory.