AFC Championship Showdown: Ravens vs. Chiefs – Viewing Guide, Kickoff Time, TV Schedule, NFL Live Stream, Key Matchups, and Predictions

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How to watch Date:

Sunday, Jan. 28 | Time: 3 p.m. ET Location: M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore) TV: CBS | Stream on Paramount+ Follow: CBS Sports App Odds: Ravens -3.5, O/U 44.5 (via Sportsline consensus odds)

Conference championship weekend is upon us, with the defending Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, set to face the Baltimore Ravens in a highly anticipated clash for the AFC title. The Ravens, boasting the NFL’s best regular-season record, led by likely league MVP Lamar Jackson, aim to secure their first AFC championship since the 2012 season. On the other side, the Chiefs, eyeing their fourth Super Bowl appearance in six seasons under quarterback Patrick Mahomes, seek their first road AFC title game victory.

The matchup is poised to be a test for the Chiefs’ potent offense, which has recently displayed impressive form. However, they now face the challenge of confronting the league’s top-ranked defense, helmed by Baltimore’s coordinator, Mike Macdonald. The Ravens excel against both the run and the pass, presenting a formidable obstacle for Mahomes and his offensive line. While the Chiefs have managed to mitigate pressure in recent weeks, the Ravens’ ability to employ simulated pressures adds an unpredictable element.

A critical aspect of the game will be how Kansas City’s offensive line contends with the Ravens’ pressure strategies. Despite the Chiefs’ historically strong front line, recent signings have left vulnerabilities, making them more susceptible to pressure. Mahomes, known for his ability to create plays under pressure, will face a tough challenge against a defense that has disrupted even the most potent offenses this season.

In the passing game, key matchups include Travis Kelce against Roquan Smith and Marcus Williams, with potential additional coverage from Kyle Hamilton. The Chiefs may use strategic screen plays to exploit the Ravens’ aggressiveness while being cautious not to become too passive in challenging them downfield. The Ravens’ defensive prowess, particularly against premier receivers, will test Mahomes’ ability to diversify his targets beyond Kelce and Tyreek Hill.

On the defensive side, the Chiefs, ranked seventh in DVOA, aim to contain the dynamic Ravens offense led by Jackson. The Chiefs’ ability to limit Jackson’s explosive runs will be crucial in tipping the matchup in their favor. Baltimore’s rushing attack, featuring Gus Edwards and Justice Hill, poses challenges, and the Chiefs will need to control the middle of the field effectively.

The Ravens’ offensive line’s performance against Chris Jones and the Chiefs’ pass rush will be pivotal, influencing Jackson’s ability to navigate the pocket. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s penchant for blitzing adds another layer of complexity for Jackson to navigate.

Mark Andrews’ potential return for the Ravens could impact the passing game, presenting challenges for the Chiefs’ secondary. The matchup between Ravens receivers and the Chiefs’ defensive backs, including the usage of L’Jarius Sneed on Zay Flowers, adds intrigue to the battle in the air.

As both teams vie for the AFC crown, the outcome hinges on how well each side can exploit weaknesses and capitalize on strengths. The clash promises high-stakes drama as these two football powerhouses go head-to-head for a coveted Super Bowl berth.