The Baltimore Ravens faced a tough challenge from the Houston Texans in the AFC divisional round, but a dominating second-half performance secured a 34-10 victory on Saturday. This Ravens vs Texans showdown showcased Lamar Jackson's brilliance and the strategic adjustments that propelled Baltimore into the AFC title game.

Ravens vs Texans: Lamar Jackson's Second-Half Brilliance

In the first half, the Ravens faced a resilient Texans team, resulting in a 10-10 halftime tie. However, the second half belonged entirely to Baltimore. Lamar Jackson orchestrated four consecutive touchdown drives, displaying his versatility with both passes and runs. The likely league MVP's go-ahead touchdown run in the third quarter set the tone for Baltimore's offensive onslaught.

Jackson's passing game flourished in the second half, countering Houston's blitzes with quick and accurate throws. His 15-yard bullet to Isaiah Likely extended Baltimore's lead to 24-10 early in the fourth quarter. Jackson, accounting for 100 of Baltimore's 229 rushing yards, showcased his prowess in both facets of the game.

Despite Houston's resilience, DeMeco Ryans' defense had no answers for Jackson and the Ravens offense in the second half. Rookie sensation C.J. Stroud had moments of brilliance for the Texans, but pre-snap penalties and a struggling running game limited their effectiveness. The Texans' lone touchdown came from Steven Sims' 67-yard punt return in the first half.

How Jackson Won His First Home Playoff Game

Baltimore's success stemmed from their consistent running game, amassing 134 yards on 25 carries in the second half alone. Jackson, along with Justice Hill and Gus Edwards, contributed to a combined 106 rushing yards on 23 carries. Credit is due to first-year offensive coordinator Todd Monken for halftime adjustments, as Jackson threw for 100 yards and a touchdown in the second half, completing passes to nine different teammates.

Defensively, the Ravens shut down Houston in the second half, preventing them from recording a single first down after the initial drive. The ability to make Houston one-dimensional proved crucial in securing the victory of the Ravens vs Texan playoff Divisional Round

Despite outplaying Baltimore in the first half, the Texans' lack of a running game and 11 penalties proved detrimental. Houston's defense struggled to counter Baltimore's adjustments, contributing to the Ravens' massive second-half success. Quarterback C.J. Stroud played well, going 19 of 33 for 175 yards without turning the ball over.

Turning Point and Plays of the Ravens vs Texan game 

The turning point for Ravens vs Texan game came when Texans kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn missed a 47-yard field goal just before halftime, squandering an opportunity to take the lead. Ravens' plays, including Jackson's go-ahead touchdown run and his connection with Likely, showcased the team's prowess in crucial moments.

 "We studied those guys like no tomorrow... In the second half, we dialed it up and we started connecting." - Jackson to ESPN's Lisa Salters on the difference between halve

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img via: USA TODAY SPORTS