The Baltimore Ravens wrapped up preseason with a dominant 41-3 win over the Washington Commanders, but kicker Tyler Loop’s struggles added a worrying note.
The Baltimore Ravens closed out their preseason with a resounding 41-3 victory over the Washington Commanders on Friday night at M&T Bank Stadium, finishing the exhibition slate at 3-0. The Commanders, who managed just a field goal, fell to 1-2. While the final score was lopsided, the game’s biggest storyline centered on Ravens kicker Tyler Loop, who missed two field goals and drew boos from the home crowd, raising questions about his job security heading into the regular season.
Ravens’ Offense Rolls Behind Backup Quarterbacks
With starters resting, the Ravens’ offense was in the hands of backup quarterbacks, and they delivered. Joe Fagnano completed 19 of 27 passes for 162 yards and a touchdown, showing poise in the pocket. He also rushed for a 1-yard score. Tyler Huntley and Austin Reed each threw a touchdown pass as well — Huntley connected with Chris Moore for a 25-yard score, and Reed found Cornelius Johnson for a 20-yard touchdown. Running back Dontae McMillan broke off a 70-yard night on just three carries, averaging over 23 yards per attempt. Wide receiver Chris Moore led the receiving corps with three catches for 54 yards and a touchdown, while LaJohntay Wester added a 10-yard touchdown reception from Fagnano. The Ravens’ depth on offense was on full display, as they amassed 41 points without their regular starters.
Commanders Struggle to Find Rhythm
The Washington Commanders, coming off a 1-2 preseason, struggled to sustain any offensive momentum. Quarterback Sam Hartman completed 9 of 14 passes for 64 yards, with no touchdowns and no interceptions. Running back Craig Reynolds led the ground game with 38 yards on nine carries, while wide receiver Lawrence Cager was the top target with six catches for 34 yards. The Commanders’ only points came on a 39-yard field goal by Drew Stevens. Washington’s offensive line, already a concern per ESPN’s John Keim, was overwhelmed, limiting the team to just three points and preventing any sustained drives. Linebacker Ale Kaho paced the defense with seven tackles, but the unit could not slow down Baltimore’s backup-laden offense.
Tyler Loop’s Misses Cast a Shadow
The most talked-about moment of the game came from Tyler Loop, the Ravens’ kicker. Loop missed field goals from 51 and 58 yards, drawing audible boos from the M&T Bank Stadium crowd. He did convert from 51 and 24 yards, but the two misses added to a concerning preseason pattern. With the regular season looming, Loop’s inconsistency has become a major storyline for Baltimore, as the team may consider alternatives if he cannot prove reliable in high-pressure situations.
Turning Point: Ravens’ Early Surge
The game was effectively decided in the first half as the Ravens jumped out to a commanding lead. Chris Moore’s 25-yard touchdown reception from Tyler Huntley set the tone, and Joe Fagnano’s 1-yard rushing score extended the advantage. Tyler Loop’s 51-yard field goal made it 17-0 before LaJohntay Wester’s 10-yard touchdown catch pushed the lead to 24-0. By the time Washington’s Drew Stevens connected on a 39-yard field goal, the Ravens already had a comfortable cushion, and they never looked back.
What It Means for Both Teams
For the Ravens, the win caps a perfect 3-0 preseason and showcases the team’s depth, particularly at quarterback and running back. However, the kicking situation is a pressing concern. With Zay Flowers, Nnamdi Madubuike, and Rachaad White listed as questionable, Baltimore will also monitor injuries as they prepare for the regular-season opener. The Commanders, meanwhile, face significant questions on the offensive line and overall offensive production. With several key players questionable, including Ben Sinnott, Jamon Johnson, and Bilhal Kone, Washington must address its depth issues before the season begins. Both teams will now look ahead to their regular-season schedules, with Baltimore aiming to build on its preseason momentum and Washington seeking to shore up its weaknesses.
Key Stats and Takeaways
- Joe Fagnano threw for 162 yards and a touchdown, completing 19 of 27 passes for the Ravens.
- Dontae McMillan rushed for 70 yards on just three carries, averaging 23.3 yards per attempt.
- Chris Moore hauled in three catches for 54 yards and a touchdown for Baltimore.
- Sam Hartman managed 64 passing yards for Washington, with no scores and no picks.
- Tyler Loop missed two field goals (51 and 58 yards) but converted from 51 and 24 yards.
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