Ravens & Texans Tied 10-10 at Halftime of Defensive Slugfest

The Baltimore Ravens are engaged in a defensive battle with the Houston Texans.

Through the first 30 minutes of play at M&T Bank Stadium, the Baltimore Ravens are tied 10-10 with the Houston Texans. 

As many may have expected, defense has been the story of the first half. Despite the Ravens being the team coming off the bye week, their vaunted defense showed no signs of rust, forcing a quick opening three-and-out from the Texans offense. 

Jan 20, 2024; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against the Houston Texans in the first quarter of a 2024 AFC divisional round game at M&T Bank Stadium.  / Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

That is where Lamar Jackson and Co. went to work for their opening drive. After crossing mid-field in just five plays, Jackso completed his two opening passes for 20 yards before a two-yard loss on a first-down scramble helped the Texans hold the Ravens to just a field goal. 

The Texans later answered this following a punt from each side, as standout rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud led Houston 23 yards in eight plays to set up a 50-yard field goal by Kai'imi Fairbairn. 

The Ravens' offense broke through, driving 76 yards in 11 plays before Jackson found receiver Nelson Agholor for the game's opening touchdown. Jackson's legs proved to be the difference as he picked up 38 yards on just two scrambles to help set up the three-yard score. 

However, the Ravens' 10-3 lead didn't last long before a Ravens' three-and-out and the ensuing punt spelled disaster, as Houston's Steven Sims returned the punt 67 yards for the game-tying touchdown.

Ravens WATCH: Baltimore Scores First TD vs. Texans

Touchdowns aside, neither offense is humming. After another three-and-out by the Ravens offense, the Texans had a chance to take the lead before halftime, but the 47-yard attempt from Fairbarn was pushed wide right. 

After the Texans offense opened the game by receiving the opening kickoff, the Ravens will get the ball to start the second half.