Bills Vs Ravens | NFL | Game Preview, Date, Time & Info
The Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens are two of the AFC’s elite teams, and when they collide under the primetime lights on Sunday, September 7 at 8:20 PM ET, it promises to be a heavyweight clash with serious postseason implications. This Week 1 showdown is one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2025 NFL season, featuring dynamic quarterbacks, powerful defenses, and playoff-tested rosters.
Let’s break down everything fans need to know about this epic battle—TV information, location, matchup previews, and what to expect when two titans of the AFC go head-to-head.
Game Details
- Matchup: Buffalo Bills vs. Baltimore Ravens
- Date: Sunday, September 7, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 8:20 PM ET (Primetime)
- Location: M&T Bank Stadium – Baltimore, Maryland
- Broadcast: NBC (Sunday Night Football)
- Streaming: Peacock, NFL+, NBC Sports App
Game Overview
Both the Bills and Ravens enter the 2025 season with Super Bowl aspirations. The Bills, led by quarterback Josh Allen, are looking to finally break through after several seasons of deep playoff runs. On the other side, Lamar Jackson and the Ravens continue to evolve offensively while maintaining their identity as one of the league’s toughest defenses.
This Week 1 clash is more than just a game—it sets the tone for the season ahead.
Buffalo Bills Preview
2024 Recap
The Bills finished the 2024 season with an 11-6 record, capturing the AFC East title for the fourth time in five years. However, their playoff journey was cut short in the Divisional Round, once again leaving fans hungry for more.
Key Players
- Josh Allen (QB): Arguably one of the most talented quarterbacks in the league, Allen continues to carry the franchise with his arm strength, mobility, and toughness. He’s the engine behind everything Buffalo does.
- Stefon Diggs (WR): Allen’s go-to target remains one of the league’s best route runners and a top-10 wideout.
- James Cook (RB): Expected to take on a larger role in 2025 as the primary back, Cook adds explosiveness to the backfield.
- Von Miller (EDGE): Though aging, Miller remains a defensive leader and pass-rushing threat when healthy.
- Matt Milano (LB): One of the most underrated linebackers in the NFL, he brings speed and physicality to the defense.
Strengths
- High-powered offense capable of scoring from anywhere
- Elite quarterback play from Allen
- Strong secondary led by Tre’Davious White (if healthy)
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent offensive line
- Lack of a dominant run game
- Aging pass rush
Baltimore Ravens Preview
2024 Recap
The Ravens posted a stellar 13-4 record in 2024, dominating the AFC North and earning the No. 1 seed. However, they fell short in the AFC Championship, a painful reminder that even a top seed isn’t guaranteed a trip to the Super Bowl.
Key Players
- Lamar Jackson (QB): The 2023 MVP continued to dazzle in 2024 with his dual-threat ability. He remains the most electrifying player in the NFL.
- Zay Flowers (WR): Emerging as Jackson’s top wideout, Flowers brings speed and shiftiness in the open field.
- Mark Andrews (TE): One of the league’s top tight ends and a trusted target on crucial downs.
- Roquan Smith (LB): A tackling machine and the heart of Baltimore’s aggressive defense.
- Kyle Hamilton (S): The rising star in the secondary who can line up anywhere on the field.
Strengths
- Dynamic, creative offense centered around Lamar Jackson
- Physical defense that excels in stopping the run and pressuring QBs
- Strong coaching and in-game adjustments
Weaknesses
- Wide receiver depth
- Can struggle in shootouts if defense breaks down
- Injury-prone backfield
Head-to-Head History
The Bills and Ravens have built a competitive rivalry in recent years. Since 2019, they’ve faced off four times, splitting the series 2-2. Most recently, the Bills defeated Baltimore in a gritty, defensive battle during the 2024 season.
Each game has carried playoff energy, and the coaching chess match between Sean McDermott and John Harbaugh adds to the excitement.
Key Matchups to Watch
Josh Allen vs. Ravens Secondary
Buffalo’s passing game will be tested against one of the most physical secondaries in the NFL. Kyle Hamilton, Marlon Humphrey, and Marcus Williams present a significant challenge for Allen, especially under pressure.
Lamar Jackson vs. Bills Linebackers
Containing Lamar Jackson is no easy feat. Buffalo will need its linebackers—especially Milano—to play disciplined, spy roles and prevent Jackson from extending drives with his legs.
Bills O-Line vs. Ravens Pass Rush
Can Buffalo’s offensive line protect Allen long enough for big plays to develop? Baltimore’s pass rush, anchored by Odafe Oweh and Roquan Smith blitzes, will aim to collapse the pocket early and often.
Coaching Battle
This is a high-level coaching duel:
- Sean McDermott has built Buffalo into a perennial contender with a defense-first approach and trust in Allen’s improvisational ability.
- John Harbaugh, a former Super Bowl winner, is a master of adaptation and special teams. His Ravens are always tough and prepared.
Expect plenty of creative game plans on both sides of the ball.
X-Factors
- Bills: Rookie WR Keon Coleman – If he can stretch the field and take pressure off Diggs, Buffalo’s offense becomes more dangerous.
- Ravens: RB Keaton Mitchell – His speed out of the backfield could be a problem for Buffalo’s linebackers.
What’s at Stake
While it’s only Week 1, this game has enormous implications:
- Playoff Seeding: A head-to-head win could be crucial for playoff positioning in a tight AFC race.
- Confidence: Beating a top-tier opponent sets the tone for a strong campaign.
- Narrative: Both teams want to prove they can win when it matters—and this primetime game is a national showcase.
Prediction
This matchup is razor-close. Both teams are capable of winning, and it may come down to one or two critical plays in the fourth quarter.
- Final Score Prediction:
Ravens 27, Bills 24
A late Justin Tucker field goal seals the win for Baltimore at home.
How to Watch
- TV Broadcast: NBC
- Online Streaming: Peacock, NFL+, NBC Sports App
- Radio Coverage: Westwood One, local team affiliates
Don’t miss this one—it’s an early contender for Game of the Year and could have long-term ripple effects in the AFC playoff picture.
Final Thoughts
The Bills vs. Ravens primetime opener is exactly what football fans crave—two elite quarterbacks, two playoff-ready rosters, and one electric night under the lights. With Josh Allen’s firepower and Lamar Jackson’s magic, expect highlight-reel plays, momentum swings, and a finish that leaves fans breathless.