Ravens Kyle Hamilton On Being Underdogs vs. 49ers: 'Disrespected!'

The Baltimore Ravens are 5.5-point underdogs vs. the San Francisco 49ers.

While the clash between the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers on Christmas day will pit two of the NFL's best, there's a clear favorite heading into the matchup. 

The 49ers (11-3), who are on a six-game winning streak, are around a 5.5-point favorite by most books, including Sports Illustrated's Sportsbook. While San Francisco being favored at home isn't a shock, it has rubbed Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton the wrong way. 

"We feel a little disrespected by that," Hamilton said. "I feel like we are the best team in the league, and we have an opportunity in front of the country to show it."

Kyle Hamilton after forcing a turnover / David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

The Ravens (11-3) are on a winning streak of their own, having won four straight. Baltimore has been anchored by its defense, Which leads the league in sacks (50) and points (16.1) allowed per game. They're also second in yards (287.9) allowed per game. 

They'll be tasked with stopping a 49ers offense averaging 34.5 points per game during their six-game winning streak. Along with having some of the game's best at their respective positions in left tackle Trent Williams, receiver Deebo Samuel, running back Christian McCaffery and tight end George Kittle, quarterback Brock Purdy is playing the best of his career, throwing 17 touchdowns compared to just two interceptions during their win streak.

While many have lauded Purdy as a system quarterback, Hamilton disagreed with his perspective of the MVP candidate and former last pick of the 2022 NFL Draft. 

"He's making every throw that you can make as a quarterback," Hamilton said. "It's on time [and] on target. [He] makes good decisions, he's mobile, and he's got a great cast around him. Yes, he's really good, and props to him. It's a pretty cool story, [with] what he's done now, and he's in the MVP race. So, it's going to be a good challenge, but I'm excited to do it."

Under Birds? Ravens Relish Underdog Status vs. 49ers Despite 'Disrespect'

Despite feeling slighted, Hamilton recognizes the stakes of the top two teams in their respective conference clashing this last in the season. While many would say it's just another game or that this matchup feels the same as any other, Hamilton noted that there's a different feeling heading into the Ravens' Christmas clash against the 49ers. 

"You can't ignore it; it's two great teams going at it on Monday night," Hamilton said. "We're on Christmas Day; it's kind of as big as it gets."

Baltimore faces San Francisco on Monday at 8:15 p.m. ET at Levi Stadium.