The AFC championship game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens is in full swing, with every mistake being critical. The first quarter and a half were relatively clean, with both Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson throwing touchdown passes. However, Baltimore’s defense crumbled towards the end of the half, being penalized twice for unnecessary roughness. These penalties gifted the Chiefs an additional 30 yards and put them within field goal range.
WHAT ARE THE #RAVENS DOING????pic.twitter.com/4xvT2iE80p https://t.co/Hy3VkMurqH
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 28, 2024
As a result of the penalties, some fans are accusing the Ravens’ defense of playing dirty. The two unnecessary roughness penalties sparked debate among fans on social media, with divergent opinions being shared.
Despite the controversy, the Chiefs dominated the first half against the Ravens. While Lamar Jackson struggled, completing only five of his 12 passes for 67 yards and a touchdown, Mahomes excelled, completing 20 of his 25 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown. The Chiefs also had more total yards and possession time than the Ravens.
Although things have gone according to plan for the Chiefs so far, it is important to note that Baltimore was the best team during the regular season. If they want to have a chance at winning, the Ravens must reduce their penalties and prevent Mahomes and the Chiefs from advancing to the Super Bowl.