What's Happening?
The Baltimore Ravens' 2026 NFL schedule features several significant matchups, including an international game against the Dallas Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro on September 27. This marks the third consecutive year the NFL has hosted a game in Brazil, providing
an early-season challenge for the Ravens. The schedule also includes two critical divisional games against the Cincinnati Bengals, with home and away fixtures on October 25 and New Year's Eve, respectively. These games are crucial for the Ravens as they aim to dominate the AFC North, which was the weakest division in the American Football Conference in 2025. Additionally, the Ravens will face the Buffalo Bills on November 1, revisiting the site of their last playoff heartbreak. A notable Monday night game against the L.A. Chargers on November 16 is expected to be pivotal in the AFC playoff race. The season concludes with two games against their arch-rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, on December 20 and January 10, potentially deciding the AFC North division title.
Why It's Important?
The 2026 schedule is significant for the Baltimore Ravens as it presents opportunities to solidify their position in the AFC North and secure a playoff berth. The international game in Rio de Janeiro highlights the NFL's ongoing efforts to expand its global reach and engage international audiences. The matchups against divisional rivals like the Bengals and Steelers are critical for the Ravens to maintain dominance in their division. The game against the Chargers could have playoff implications, making it a must-win for both teams. The Ravens' ability to navigate this challenging schedule will be crucial for their postseason aspirations and could impact their standing in the AFC.
What's Next?
As the season progresses, the Ravens will need to focus on winning key divisional games to ensure a strong position in the AFC North. The international game in Brazil offers a unique challenge and an opportunity to showcase the team's talent on a global stage. The Ravens will also need to address any weaknesses exposed in early games to improve their chances in the latter part of the season. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the team performs against top competitors like the Bills and Chargers, as these games could determine their playoff fate.
