Baltimore Ravens vs. Jacksonville Jaguars – In a pivotal Week 15 NFL matchup, the Baltimore Ravens (10-3) will travel to face the Jacksonville Jaguars (8-5) in a game full of playoff implications. Set for Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 8:20 PM ET at EverBank Stadium and airing on NBC, this contest is a key focus for NFL betting picks. The Ravens, with a strong record, look to solidify their playoff positioning, while the Jaguars aim to upset the odds and enhance their postseason chances.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Date & Time: Sunday, December 17, 2023 at 8:20 PM ET
Location: EverBank Stadium
TV: NBC
Baltimore Ravens vs. Jacksonville Jaguars Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Ravens | -250 | -6.5 (-112) | 38.5 over (-111) |
| Jaguars | +206 | +6.5 (-110) | 38.5 under (-111) |
Baltimore Ravens Analysis
The Baltimore Ravens have showcased a formidable offense this season, led by the dynamic quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson is having an outstanding season, completing 66.8% of passes for 2,934 yards and 16 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions. His 7.8 yards per pass attempt shows Baltimore’s propensity for explosive plays through the air. Jackson’s mobility outside the pocket adds another dimension for defenses to account for, as he has rushed for 781 yards and 4 scores. His scrambling ability buys time for receivers to get open downfield.
Defensively, the Ravens allow the 7th-fewest points per game at 18.5, relying on rugged run defense as their calling card. They allow just 87.7 rushing yards per game, with stalwarts Calais Campbell and Justin Houston shutting down opposing ground attacks. However, the Ravens can be exploited through the air, allowing 236.3 passing yards per game. Cornerbacks Marcus Peters and Marlon Humphrey are usually up to the task in coverage, but they must limit big plays generated by Jacksonville’s quick-strike passing offense. Although Baltimore leads the NFL with 37 sacks, they need even more pressure to protect their vulnerable secondary. Generating disruption against Lawrence will be crucial in slowing Jacksonville’s attack.
Jacksonville Jaguars Analysis
The Jacksonville Jaguars, led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence, have shown significant improvement this season. He has passed for 3,261 yards along with 17 touchdowns and completed an efficient 66.6% of attempts. Most importantly, he has cut down mistakes with only 8 interceptions after 17 last year. Lawrence has the arm talent to burn defenses over the top, already with five 300-yard passing. His growing connection with Christian Kirk has unlocked Jacksonville’s offense, as Kirk has amassed 787 receiving yards on 13.8 yards per reception. Dangerous after the catch, Kirk can flip the field on quick slants or screens with his speed and agility. Snoop Conner adds punch to the Jaguars’ rushing attack with 244 yards and a score as Travis Etienne Jr.’s primary backup. While the offense remains inconsistent relying on young playmakers, Lawrence offers game-breaking talent capable of trading points with any opponent.
Defensively, the Jaguars have shown resilience but face a tough challenge against the Ravens’ high-powered offense. The Jaguars allow 23.8 points per game, reflecting a mediocre showing. As seen in last week’s blowout loss surrendering 40 points, Jacksonville still has glaring deficiencies especially against elite offenses like Baltimore. The key for improvement lies in generating more disruption up front — Jacksonville with 27 sacks. To contain Lamar Jackson’s prolific attack, pass rushers must ramp up pressure while the secondary limits big pass plays downfield from speedsters. Stuffing Baltimore’s rushing attack behind the line of scrimmage will also be critical.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Jacksonville Jaguars Against the Spread
The Baltimore Ravens are 7-1 straight up in their last 8 matchups against the Jaguars, but just 1-6 against the spread (ATS) in their last 7 meetings. Baltimore is also a superb 19-8 ATS in their last 27 road games. The total has gone over in 5 of Baltimore’s last 7 overall.
While Jacksonville Jaguars is 14-6 SU in its last 20 games, they are just 2-5 ATS in their last 7 home contests. The total has gone under in 6 of Jacksonville’s last 9 matchups against Baltimore.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Jacksonville Jaguars Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Ravens -250
The Ravens’ balanced attack and strong defense make them favorites to win this matchup.
Spread: Jaguars +6.5 (-110)
Given Jacksonville’s strong ATS record and their ability to keep games close, they are likely to cover the spread.
Total: 38.5 under (-111)
Considering both teams’ recent trends and strong defensive capabilities, a lower-scoring game is anticipated.
Predicted Score: Baltimore Ravens 20, Jacksonville Jaguars 16
To conclude, for enthusiasts at an online sportsbook in Canada, the most reliable pick seems to be the Jaguars covering the spread. While the Ravens are likely to win, Jacksonville’s ability to perform well against the spread, especially at home, suggests they can keep the game within a touchdown, making them a solid bet against the spread.
