Ravens Punt to Browns With 2 Minutes Left as Missed Field Goal Keeps Game Tied 10-10

Q: Can Cleveland capitalize on Baltimore's cautious punt and steal a crucial AFC North victory?

Yes—Cleveland is in position to do it, and Baltimore’s punt gives the Browns a real opening in a game that has turned into exactly the kind of late, one-score spot that has troubled the Ravens. The key factor is Baltimore’s offensive stagnation. The Ravens have done little since the second quarter, and after Cleveland missed a field goal, they still failed to generate even a modest scoring push. Choosing to punt in a 10-10 game effectively put the outcome on defense and field position rather than on an offense that has lost momentum. That is notable because Baltimore has developed a recent reputation for late-game lapses and missed chances in tight finishes. Cleveland, meanwhile, has a path that fits its strengths. The Browns’ defense has been productive, and their special teams are a major asset. Andre Szmyt has been one of the league’s most reliable kickers, extending a long streak of made field goals this season and dating back to last year. In a tied game after the two-minute warning, that matters: Cleveland does not necessarily need a touchdown drive, only enough composure to gain field position and set up a makeable kick. That said, “can” is not “will.” Baltimore still has a strong run game and enough defensive talent to force overtime or steal the ball back. But based on the game flow, the Browns have to like their chances more than the Ravens should like the conservatism of that punt.

3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Oct 18

2:00 remained when Baltimore gave the ball back to Cleveland, leaving the game deadlocked at 10-10 after the two-minute warning.
A missed Browns field goal had just handed the Ravens a chance to seize control, but Baltimore's offense failed to convert it into points.
The punt capped a prolonged lull for the Ravens, who have produced almost nothing offensively since the second quarter began.
Cleveland now takes over in a tie game with a late possession and a chance to break the 10-10 stalemate.