In the fight for the AFC playoffs, the Cleveland Browns manage an important victory against the Baltimore Ravens. The Browns’ narrow victory is overshadowed by an injury to star quarterback Lamar Jackson.

Munich/Cleveland – The Cleveland Browns have bounced back in the fight for playoff spots in the AFC.

Against the Baltimore Ravens, Baker Mayfield and Co. shivered their way to a very close 24:22 victory.

Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns: Injury to Lamar Jackson overshadows game

Cleveland took control of the game early, rushing for three touchdowns and a field goal in the first half. The Browns’ dominance was aided by an injury to Ravens playmaker Lamar Jackson, who was forced to leave the field for the locker room early in the second quarter

For a long time, his replacement Tyler Huntley found no real means against the strong Browns defence, which nipped the Ravens’ promising attacks in the bud and forced the replacement quarterback into two turnovers. Until the last quarter, Baltimore’s only points came from kicker Justin Tucker.

Baltimore Ravens: Sensational comeback fails in last minute

Nine minutes before the end, a sensational comeback was announced: First the Ravens cut the lead to 15:24 through running back Latavius Murray, before a score by tight end Mark Andrews melted the Browns’ lead down to two points within the last two minutes.

After Baltimore also recovered the ensuing onside kick, the game seemed to turn completely around. However, the Ravens offence failed to capitalise on the subsequent attempts and the comeback failed to materialise.

Cleveland quarterback Baker Mayfield, who has been dealing with a series of injuries in recent weeks, accounted for 190 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.

Huntley finished with 270 yards and a touchdown.

Cleveland Browns: Next game next Saturday

Cleveland improves its record to 7-6 with the win, while Baltimore falls to 8-5. The Browns are already challenged again next Saturday: Against the Las Vegas Raiders (6-7), Mayfield and Co. can take another step towards the playoffs.

The Ravens will meet the Green Bay Packers (9-3) on Sunday.