Joe Flacco's return to Baltimore was far from a storybook homecoming, as the Ravens dominated the Browns in a 41-17 victory. The former Super Bowl MVP, playing his first game in Baltimore since being traded after the 2018 season, struggled against his former team, turning the ball over twice, leading to 14 points for the Ravens.
The Ravens' defense capitalized on Flacco's mistakes, with a 61-yard interception return and a 63-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown. Adding to the Browns' woes, the Ravens also blocked a punt, setting up their first touchdown of the game. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski lamented the costly errors, stating, "We gave them 21 points via a blocked punt, a fumble recovery, and an interception. It's hard to win, period, but it's hard to win when you do that".
Flacco finished the game 25 for 45 with 199 passing yards before being pulled in the fourth quarter. He was sacked twice and faced constant pressure from the Ravens' defensive front. On the other side, Lamar Jackson, Flacco's replacement, outperformed his predecessor, throwing for 225 yards and four touchdowns.
The Ravens' victory was a team effort, with contributions from all phases of the game. Defensively, Roquan Smith had a standout performance, forcing a fumble and returning it 64 yards for a touchdown. Offensively, DeAndre Hopkins had a key 41-yard reception, and Devontez Walker caught two touchdown passes.
With the loss, the Browns fell to 0-2 for the first time in Stefanski's six seasons as head coach. Flacco acknowledged the embarrassing defeat, saying, "You definitely feel a little bit embarrassed when you lose like this, but that's what you've got to deal with when you're in this league. We have to prove this is an anomaly and it won't happen again". Stefanski took responsibility for the loss, emphasizing the importance of team performance. He also affirmed that Flacco would remain the starting quarterback.
The Ravens, now 1-1, will host the Detroit Lions on "Monday Night Football" on September 22. The Browns will look to rebound from their poor start as they prepare for their next game.
