Rookie QB Lamar Jackson-strong defense key Ravens win over Bucs Roy Cummings, Florida Football Insiders, published 17 December 2018 On a cold and rainy day in Baltimore, the Ravens were as advertised and once again, the Bucs demonstrated that they couldn’t make the plays late that they had to, to win a key game. Led again by rookie QB Lamar Jackson and his great running ability, the Ravens ran for over 200 yards and came away with a 20 – 12 victory Sunday keeps their hopes for an AFC wild-card spot alive. And in the process, it cast further doubt into whether coach Dirk Koetter and quarterback Jameis Winston will be back next season. The loss dropped Buccaneers to 5-9 and ensured their ninth losing season in the last 11. The loss also officially eliminated the Buccaneers from the NFC playoff chase. The game started off well enough for the Buccaneers, as they took a 6-0 lead after capitalizing on a Jackson fumbled exchange, and linebacker Lavonte David fell on it. Tampa Bay went 51 yards and Peyton Barber punched it in from 3 yards out for their first score. There was a bad snap on the extra point and the hold was botched keeping the score at 6 – 0. The Ravens took the lead for the first time after Jackson led them down the field on a 16 play 75 yard drive that was capped as, receiver Chris Moore ran a read-option reverse from 10 yards out and Baltimore had a 7 – 6 advantage. The game was 10-9 at halftime and Baltimore increased the lead when Jackson lead another 10 play, 78 yard drive that was finished by rookie running back Gus Edwards’ touchdown. It put the Raven’s comfortably in front 17– 9. Tampa Bay got field goal later to cut the lead to 20 – 12 and then, had one last good opportunity to go get a potential game-tying touchdown and two-point conversion. However, they were stopped on a 3rd and short when Peyton Barber was tackled in the backfield for a 2-yard loss. And then, on fourth down Jameis Winston was pressured and threw incomplete to Chris Godwin. The Ravens took over and proceeded to get three first downs to run the clock out for the win. The Baltimore defense allowed only three second half points in securing the victory. It ensures that Baltimore remains alive for the remaining wild card spot in the AFC. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay limps into the final two weeks having to play at Dallas and then, host the Falcons in their finale. And, everyone will be wondering if it’s the last time Koetter will be on the sideline, as the coach and whether Winston’s days at QB in Tampa Bay are also numbered, as well.