#149 - Nevermind, the Super Bowl is BACK ON - Week 15 Recap and Week 16 Preview vs New England Patriots
In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, Ian, Gordon and Ashley react to one of the most complete and cathartic performances of the season as the Ravens deliver a shutout win over the Cincinnati Bengals, reigniting belief and dragging themselves right back into the playoff picture. The episode opens with the atmosphere and energy around the game, including reflections from a UKRavens meetup that turned a huge defensive display into a shared, unforgettable experience. From there, the focus quickly shifts to the on-field product, starting where the credit is due: the defense.Baltimore’s defense takes centre stage after pitching a goose egg against Joe Burrow and the Bengals. The panel break down what made this performance so special, from relentless pass rush pressure to disciplined coverage and outstanding communication on the back end. Dre’Mont Jones’ breakout game is analysed in detail, with discussion around how his arrival has transformed the rotation and allowed players like Tavius Robinson, Mike Green and David Ojabo to thrive in more defined roles. The group also highlight Kyle Van Noy’s interception, the perfectly executed lateral to Alohi Gilman, and how those in-season acquisitions are paying dividends at exactly the right time.There’s also a thoughtful look at adversity on defense, including the season-ending ACL injury to rookie Teddy Buchanan. The discussion explores how the Ravens adjusted on the fly, the role Trenton Simpson played stepping in, and how Kyle Hamilton’s versatility continues to give the coaching staff answers even when injuries strike. The secondary’s performance earns plenty of praise too, as Ja’Marr Chase was largely contained and communication across the unit looked as sharp as it has all season.On the offensive side of the ball, the conversation acknowledges a familiar slow start before highlighting how efficiently the Ravens finished the first half. Lamar Jackson’s performance is examined closely, with consensus that this looked like the healthiest and most confident version of him in weeks. Despite limited passing volume, Lamar delivered when it mattered, including a perfect strike to Zay Flowers and calm execution in late-half situations.Derrick Henry’s impact looms large in the second half, as the Ravens leaned into the run game to close things out. The hosts discuss how Henry, Keaton Mitchell and the broader backfield combined for ruthless efficiency, allowing Baltimore to control the game without exposing Lamar unnecessarily. There’s also reflection on how quietly productive Henry’s season has been, even behind a much-criticised offensive line.That offensive line remains a talking point, with detailed breakdown of guard struggles, Ronnie Stanley’s injury scare, and encouraging flashes from Carson Vincent in limited snaps. The discussion balances realism about ongoing protection issues with optimism about gradual improvement and the importance of health heading into the season’s final stretch.The episode closes by turning attention forward to a huge Week 15 matchup against the New England Patriots. The panel dive into the tactical matchup, focusing on run defense trends, how Baltimore can attack New England, and what could decide the game on Sunday Night Football. Score predictions and player props round out the show, before a look ahead to the broader AFC North picture and what the final weeks of the season could hold.It’s a wide-ranging, upbeat episode that blends tactical analysis, injury news, community moments and renewed optimism as the Ravens make their late-season push.