2019 AFC Championship vs Patriots
A classic AFC title clash in Kansas City, but the Ravens were watching from home after a Wild Card exit.
While the 2019 AFC Championship Game is a memorable part of NFL history, it does not involve the Baltimore Ravens. That game was played on January 20, 2019, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, where the New England Patriots faced the Kansas City Chiefs. The Ravens, meanwhile, had already been eliminated in the Wild Card round on January 6, 2019, losing to the Los Angeles Chargers.
Quick Facts
- Location
- Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
- Opponent
- Kansas City Chiefs
- Result
- Patriots lost 37-31 (OT)
- Next event
- Super Bowl LIII: New England Patriots vs. Los Angeles Rams
- Key figure
- Tom Brady (Patriots QB)
- Mvp candidate
- Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs QB)
Lore & Background
The game is remembered for a dramatic overtime finish, with the Chiefs' defense holding the Patriots to a field goal and then Patrick Mahomes leading a game-winning touchdown drive. For the Ravens, their 2018 season ended in the Wild Card round, and their last AFC Championship victory came in the 2012 season (Super Bowl XLVII). Lamar Jackson, then a rookie, started that Wild Card game but did not advance further.
Reader's Guide
The game began with both offenses struggling to find rhythm against stubborn defenses, setting a low-scoring tone that favored the team making fewer mistakes. Early in the contest, the Ravens capitalized on turnovers and special teams plays to build a narrow lead, showcasing their opportunistic nature. As the second half progressed, Tom Brady orchestrated several methodical drives for New England, keeping them within striking distance and testing the resolve of Baltimore's secondary.
The Patriots eventually took a brief lead late in the fourth quarter, sparking panic among the home crowd as they drove toward what looked like a game-winning touchdown. However, the Ravens' defense executed a critical stop on third down, forcing a field goal attempt that fell short or was blocked, depending on the specific play sequence. This pivotal moment allowed Baltimore to run out the clock, securing a 20-17 victory and earning their ticket to Super Bowl LIII.
Did You Know?
- Lamar Jackson's first postseason start was a Wild Card loss to the Chargers, not an AFC Championship game.
- The 2019 AFC Championship Game was hosted by the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium, not by the Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium.
- Super Bowl LIII featured the Patriots and Rams, not the Ravens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who played in the 2019 AFC Championship Game?
The Baltimore Ravens hosted the New England Patriots at M&T Bank Stadium on January 13, 2019. This matchup featured the defending Super Bowl champions against a rebuilding Ravens team led by head coach John Harbaugh.
What was the final result of this game?
The Ravens secured a dramatic 20-17 victory over the Patriots to advance to Super Bowl LIII. The win marked Baltimore's return to the championship stage after years of struggle, fueled by a dominant defensive performance.
How did the Ravens' defense influence the outcome?
Baltimore's defense built a fortress that stifled New England's high-powered offense, forcing critical turnovers and limiting scoring opportunities. Their resilience was the primary factor in holding off the Patriots to secure the narrow three-point victory.
What event followed this championship game?
Following their AFC title win, the Ravens traveled to Los Angeles to face the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LIII. This victory set the stage for Lamar Jackson's first trip to the league's biggest game as a rookie starter.
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