The winning streak of the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL Preseason is broken. After 24 wins in a row, the Ravens lost 28-29 to the Washington Commanders. Lamar Jackson did not play, Sam Howell, on the other hand, was convincing all along the line.

What seemed impossible for a long time happened in week two of the 2023 preseason: The Baltimore Ravens lost a game.

The Ravens had won all of their last 24 preseason games – an NFL record! Now the series ended with a 28:29 loss at the Washington Commanders. A Joey Slye field goal from 49 yards with ten seconds left to play ended the Purple and White’s impressive streak.

Howell convincing, Brissett weak

For the Commanders, it was the controversial starting quarterback Sam Howell who delivered the most. He completed 76 percent of his passes (19/25) for two touchdowns and 188 passing yards. Add to that 17 rushing yards on three attempts.

The top two receivers who received playing time also showed impressive early form. Terry McLaurin caught the three balls that flew his way (39 yards) and Jahan Dotson still caught five of the seven targets for 76 yards.

Jacoby Brissett did not perform as well. Howel’s challenger managed only 7/11 successful passes with no touchdowns, one interception and a passer rating of 35.

First touchdown for Flowers

Lamar Jackson was not used in the Ravens’ second Test match. The probability of seeing him in the preseason is rather low.

However, Baltimore’s highest pick from this year’s draft had reason to rejoice. Wide receiver Zay Flowers caught his first touchdown for the Ravens in the NFL. He ended up with two catches (on two targets) for 37 yards.

The Ravens’ quarterbacks have similar passing stats. Josh Johnson (10/12 for 145 yards) scored just as many touchdowns and one interception as Anthony Brown (6/10 for 40 yards).

At the end of the preseason in one week, the Commanders will meet the Cincinnati Bengals, the Ravens travel to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.