The Buffalo Bills, led by A.J. Epenesa, host the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Divisional Round.
The 2025 NFL Playoffs are in full swing, and the stage is set for one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the AFC Divisional Round: the Buffalo Bills hosting the Baltimore Ravens. As two of the top contenders in the AFC, both teams boast high-powered offenses and formidable defenses. However, it is the performance of certain key players that could tip the scales in what is expected to be a hard-fought contest. A.J. Epenesa, a key defensive contributor for the Bills, will play a pivotal role in disrupting the Ravens’ offense, especially their dynamic quarterback Lamar Jackson. Meanwhile, the Ravens’ top-tier defense will look to slow down the Bills’ powerful offense led by quarterback Josh Allen.
In this in-depth analysis, we will explore the key elements of the game, breaking down the head-to-head matchups, focusing on key players to watch, and examining how Epenesa’s impact could affect the outcome of the game. Ultimately, both teams will be looking to advance to the AFC Championship, but only one will emerge victorious.
1. Buffalo Bills: Strength in Defense and Explosive Offense
The Buffalo Bills enter this game as one of the most balanced teams in the league. On offense, they are led by Josh Allen, who has established himself as one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks. His ability to make big throws down the field, combined with his mobility, makes him a constant threat. Stefon Diggs, Allen’s top target, is a proven playmaker who can take over a game with his route running and exceptional hands.
On defense, the Bills have one of the league’s most disruptive units, led by A.J. Epenesa, a defensive end who has quietly emerged as a key player in Buffalo’s defensive line rotation. Epenesa’s combination of size, strength, and agility allows him to wreak havoc in the backfield, whether through the pass rush or as a run stopper. His ability to create pressure on the quarterback and disrupt offensive plays will be crucial in this matchup against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ offense.
A.J. Epenesa’s Impact:
Epenesa’s performance in the Divisional Round could be the difference-maker in the game. His ability to pressure Lamar Jackson will be key. Jackson thrives when given the freedom to extend plays with his legs, and if Epenesa can get consistent pressure on Jackson, it could force the Ravens’ offense into uncomfortable situations. Whether it’s using his speed to chase Jackson down in the pocket or collapsing the pocket to force quick throws, Epenesa will have a major role in limiting the Ravens’ explosive plays.
The Bills’ defense will also be focused on slowing down Baltimore’s run game, which has been an integral part of their offensive success, especially when Jackson is running the ball. Epenesa’s presence in the defensive line will be crucial in neutralizing the run game and forcing Jackson to become a more traditional pocket passer. Given his ability to stop the run, this will be a matchup to watch closely.
2. Baltimore Ravens: A Threat Through the Air and Ground
On the other side of the ball, the Baltimore Ravens will look to continue their dominance with Lamar Jackson at the helm. Jackson is one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the league, known for his incredible athleticism and playmaking ability. Jackson’s ability to throw the ball downfield and run effectively makes him a dual-threat that can create mismatches for opposing defenses.
The Ravens have a unique offensive identity, relying heavily on their running game. With Jackson leading the charge, Baltimore has the ability to churn out yards on the ground, but they also feature a stable of talented running backs, including J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards. Jackson’s ability to read defenses and make plays on the move makes the Ravens one of the most dangerous teams to face in the postseason.
However, when facing a defense like Buffalo’s, which ranks among the league’s best, the Ravens will need to find a balance between their run and pass game. The Bills’ defense, anchored by Tremaine Edmunds and Matt Milano, is known for its ability to stop the run and create turnovers. Epenesa’s ability to disrupt Jackson’s rhythm will be a major factor in this game.
The Ravens’ Defensive Playmakers:
The Ravens’ defense, led by Roquan Smith and Marcus Williams, is a solid unit capable of shutting down opposing offenses. Smith has been a game-changer for the Ravens since his acquisition, acting as the defensive leader and playing a crucial role in the Ravens’ coverage schemes. However, they will face a tough challenge against a Bills offense that can strike from anywhere on the field.
While Jackson’s playmaking ability is a significant advantage for the Ravens, the challenge will be how they manage to defend Allen and his top receiving options, including Stefon Diggs. The Bills’ offense is predicated on creating big plays, and Jackson’s ability to outduel Allen in a high-scoring affair will be critical to their success.
3. Head-to-Head: Quarterback Duel – Allen vs. Jackson
The most exciting aspect of this matchup is the head-to-head duel between Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. Both quarterbacks are among the most dynamic in the NFL, and their individual performances will likely determine the outcome of the game. The challenge for both players will be how they can adapt to the unique defensive pressures presented by the opposing team.
Josh Allen’s Keys to Success: Allen will need to make quick decisions in the pocket, especially with pressure coming from the Ravens’ pass rush. He has the arm strength to make deep throws to Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis, but he will need to avoid unnecessary mistakes and turnovers. His ability to stretch the field with his legs will also be a factor, as Allen is more than capable of taking off and running when needed.
On the ground, James Cook will need to contribute in the run game to help take pressure off of Allen. By establishing the run, the Bills can create play-action opportunities and give Allen the time he needs to scan the field for his options. The Bills will want to keep Jackson off the field as much as possible, so efficient offensive drives will be key.
Lamar Jackson’s Keys to Success: For Jackson, the key to success lies in his ability to remain calm in the pocket and make accurate throws. Jackson’s success will rely on his ability to read the Bills’ defense and make quick decisions, particularly when it comes to finding open receivers in tight spaces. Additionally, his ability to pick up yards with his legs will be critical. If Jackson can create running lanes, it will force the Bills to adjust their defensive game plan and potentially open up passing lanes downfield.
With the Ravens’ heavy reliance on the run game, J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards will be instrumental in keeping the defense off balance. If they can establish a strong run game, it will open up more opportunities for Jackson to utilize play-action and exploit the Bills’ defense.
4. Game Prediction: Buffalo Bills 27, Baltimore Ravens 24
In what is expected to be a thrilling AFC Divisional Round game, the Buffalo Bills will ultimately come out on top, with a final score prediction of 27-24.
A.J. Epenesa’s Impact will be one of the defining factors in this game. The Ravens’ offense is built around Jackson’s ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground. If Epenesa can consistently pressure Jackson and limit his ability to escape the pocket, it will disrupt the flow of the Ravens’ offense. Jackson’s ability to improvise and make plays with his legs will be tested by Epenesa’s pass rush, forcing him into uncomfortable situations that lead to missed opportunities and turnovers.
On the offensive side, Josh Allen will continue his strong postseason play, finding Stefon Diggs for multiple big plays and making clutch throws under pressure. While the Ravens will put up a valiant effort, especially with Jackson’s dynamic ability, the Bills’ defense will be able to contain enough of the Ravens’ offensive weapons to secure the win.
In the end, the game will be decided by the Bills’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and make big plays when it matters most. Allen’s arm strength and playmaking ability, combined with the Bills’ defense, will be too much for the Ravens to overcome.
