Baltimore Ravens vs Cleveland Browns Picks and Predictions September 14th 2025

Joe Flacco returns to Baltimore as Browns, Ravens search for first win

The Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens both enter Week 2 at 0-1, but the biggest headline is Joe Flacco’s return to Baltimore. The 40-year-old quarterback, who spent 11 seasons with the Ravens and won Super Bowl MVP in 2013, will step back into M&T Bank Stadium for the first time as a visitor.

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Flacco remains the Ravens’ all-time leader in passing yards (38,245) and touchdowns (212). Baltimore coach John Harbaugh reflected on that era fondly, calling it “iconic in Baltimore football history.” Lamar Jackson also reminisced about their time together, remembering Flacco’s humor and leadership.

Ravens Blow Lead in Week 1

The Ravens dropped their opener in stunning fashion, losing 41-40 to the Buffalo Bills after allowing 16 unanswered points in the final 3:56. Lamar Jackson accounted for three touchdowns, and Derrick Henry rushed for 169 yards and two scores, but a costly Henry fumble shifted momentum.

Safety Kyle Hamilton admitted the team must shake off the perception of being one that can’t hold late leads. With pressure mounting, Baltimore will need a complete performance to avoid falling to 0-2.

Browns Struggle Despite Defensive Dominance

The Browns also lost by one point, falling 17-16 to the Cincinnati Bengals. Their defense allowed just 141 total yards, but rookie kicker Andre Szmyt missed both an extra point and a go-ahead 36-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter.

Joe Flacco threw for 290 yards and one touchdown but was intercepted twice. Cleveland will rely on him again as they try to avoid their first 0-2 start since 2017.

Tale of the Tape

Injury Concerns Pile Up

Both teams enter with notable injury concerns. Cleveland rookie RB Quinshon Judkins missed practice due to a league investigation, while tackles Jack Conklin and Dawand Jones were limited. On the Ravens’ side, fullback Patrick Ricard, tight end Isaiah Likely, and defensive lineman Nnamdi Madubuike did not practice.

These absences could shift the game plan for both teams, particularly in the trenches, where the Browns’ offensive line has already shown vulnerability.

Betting Outlook and Keys to Victory

Oddsmakers have Baltimore as the early favorite, banking on Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat ability and the Ravens’ urgency after last week’s collapse. Flacco’s return adds emotion to Cleveland’s side, but their offensive struggles and special teams mistakes loom large.