Unforgettable Moments in Time
The Baltimore Ravens, established in 1996, have quickly become one of the NFL’s most respected and successful franchises. With two Super Bowl victories and a reputation for dominant defenses, the Ravens have produced countless unforgettable moments. From iconic plays to championship triumphs, here are the top 12 moments in Baltimore Ravens history.
1. Ravens Win Their First Super Bowl (2001)
The Ravens secured their first Lombardi Trophy on January 28, 2001, with a dominant 34-7 victory over the New York Giants in Super Bowl XXXV. Led by a historic defense that allowed only 165 points during the regular season, the Ravens suffocated the Giants’ offense. Ray Lewis, the team’s emotional leader, earned Super Bowl MVP honors, cementing his status as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history.
This win was a defining moment for the franchise, proving that even a young team could rise to the pinnacle of the sport with the right combination of grit and talent. For fans seeking excitement beyond football, platforms like Crusino Casino offer thrilling opportunities to test your strategy and luck, making every moment as exhilarating as Baltimore’s first Super Bowl victory.
2. Ray Lewis’s Final Ride: Super Bowl XLVII (2013)
The Ravens’ second Super Bowl victory came on February 3, 2013, when they defeated the San Francisco 49ers 34-31 in a thrilling game. Dubbed “The Harbaugh Bowl” because it pitted head coaches and brothers John and Jim Harbaugh against each other, the game was packed with drama.
Ray Lewis, in his final NFL season, provided the emotional spark for the Ravens. Joe Flacco, who threw for 287 yards and three touchdowns, earned Super Bowl MVP honors. The game featured the famous “power outage” that delayed play and a critical goal-line stand by the Ravens’ defense to seal the victory.
3. The Mile High Miracle (2013)
One of the most iconic plays in Ravens history occurred during the 2013 AFC Divisional Round against the Denver Broncos. Down 35-28 with less than a minute to play, Joe Flacco launched a 70-yard touchdown pass to Jacoby Jones, tying the game and shocking the Denver crowd.
The Ravens went on to win 38-35 in double overtime, thanks to a game-winning field goal by Justin Tucker. The “Mile High Miracle” kept Baltimore’s Super Bowl dreams alive and remains one of the greatest plays in NFL playoff history.
4. Ray Lewis’s Legendary Entrance
Ray Lewis was more than just a linebacker; he was the emotional heartbeat of the Baltimore Ravens, and nowhere was his impact more visible than during his pregame entrances at M&T Bank Stadium. His iconic dance to Nelly’s “Hot in Herre,” punctuated by dramatic stomps and arm gestures, became a game day ritual triggering must-see moments for Ravens fans and an intimidation factor for opponents.
This wasn’t just a display of showmanship—it symbolized the intensity, passion, and warrior-like mentality that defined both Lewis and the Ravens’ defensive identity. The crowd roared as Lewis fed off their energy, igniting the stadium and setting the tone for every game. His entrance became a tradition that transcended football, embodying Baltimore’s grit and spirit.
Ray’s final entrance during the 2012-2013 playoffs, before leading the Ravens to their second Super Bowl title, was especially poignant. It was a moment that united players, fans, and the city of Baltimore in celebration of a career defined by heart, determination, and leadership.
5. Ed Reed’s 108-Yard Interception Return (2008)
On November 23, 2008, Ed Reed cemented his legacy as one of the greatest safeties in NFL history with a record-breaking 108-yard interception return for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles. The play showcased Reed’s exceptional football IQ, speed, and elusiveness, as he turned a defensive stand into a game-changing score.
Late in the game, with the Eagles threatening to score, Reed intercepted the ball in the end zone and sprinted downfield, weaving through defenders with precision. His touchdown remains the longest interception return in NFL history, epitomizing his ability to transform a single play into an unforgettable moment. It was yet another highlight in a career defined by brilliance and playmaking.
6. The Drafting of Ray Lewis and Jonathan Ogden (1996)
The Ravens’ first-ever draft in 1996 set the foundation for the franchise’s success. With their first two picks, the Ravens selected Jonathan Ogden and Ray Lewis—two players who would become cornerstones of the team.
Ogden, a dominant offensive tackle, was the first player inducted into the Hall of Fame as a Raven, while Lewis became the heart and soul of Baltimore’s defense for 17 seasons. This draft class is often regarded as one of the best in NFL history.
7. Justin Tucker’s 66-Yard Game-Winning Field Goal (2021)
Justin Tucker has been one of the most consistent and reliable kickers in NFL history, and on September 26, 2021, he delivered a moment for the ages. Against the Detroit Lions, Tucker drilled a record-breaking 66-yard field goal as time expired, securing a 19-17 victory for the Ravens.
The kick, which bounced off the crossbar before going through, set the NFL record for the longest field goal and reinforced Tucker’s status as a clutch performer.
8. The Ravens’ 2000 Defense Sets Records
The 2000 Ravens defense is widely considered one of the greatest in NFL history. During the regular season, the unit allowed only 165 points (an average of just over 10 points per game) and posted four shutouts.
In the playoffs, the defense was even more dominant, allowing just 23 total points in four games en route to the team’s first Super Bowl win. Anchored by Ray Lewis, this defense set the gold standard for future teams.
9. Lamar Jackson’s MVP Season (2019)
Lamar Jackson’s 2019 season was nothing short of extraordinary. At just 22 years old, he became the youngest quarterback to win the MVP award unanimously, redefining what it means to be a dual-threat quarterback in the NFL. Jackson threw for 3,127 yards and 36 touchdown passes while rushing for a record-breaking 1,206 yards—the most ever by a quarterback in a single season.
Under his leadership, the Ravens finished the regular season with a franchise-best 14-2 record and led the league in scoring, averaging 33.2 points per game. Memorable moments included his stunning 47-yard spin-move touchdown against the Bengals, which showcased his unmatched athleticism.
Though the Ravens’ playoff run ended with a loss to the Titans, Jackson’s season set a new benchmark for dynamic quarterbacks and proved that athleticism and creativity can thrive in the modern NFL.
10. The Rivalry with the Steelers
The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers rivalry is one of the NFL’s most intense. Known for its hard-hitting, physical style, this matchup has produced countless memorable moments since the Ravens’ debut in 1996.
Key clashes include the 2008 AFC Championship, where a Troy Polamalu pick-six sealed a Steelers victory, and the 2014 Wild Card game, where the Ravens won 30-17 in Pittsburgh. With legends like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed battling Pittsburgh’s Troy Polamalu and Ben Roethlisberger, every game became a showcase of grit and determination.
This rivalry exemplifies AFC North football at its finest, where every matchup feels like a playoff game, and both teams’ passionate fan bases make the stakes even higher.
11. Terrell Suggs Becomes the All-Time Ravens Sack Leader (2017)
Terrell Suggs, affectionately known as “T-Sizzle,” was the heart and soul of the Ravens’ defense for over a decade. On November 19, 2017, during a game against the Green Bay Packers, Suggs recorded his 125th career sack, becoming the Ravens’ all-time leader in sacks.
Suggs’ achievement was a testament to his longevity, consistency, and dominance as a pass rusher. Known for his explosive power and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Suggs played a pivotal role in the Ravens’ defensive identity. His leadership and charisma made him a fan favorite, and his record solidified his legacy as one of the greatest defensive players in team history.
12. Joe Flacco’s Unforgettable Playoff Run (2012-2013)
Joe Flacco’s performance during the 2012-2013 playoffs remains one of the most remarkable postseason runs in NFL history. Over four games, Flacco threw 11 touchdowns with zero interceptions, including clutch performances in the Ravens’ victories over the Broncos, Patriots, and 49ers.
Flacco’s deep throws and calm demeanor under pressure earned him Super Bowl MVP honors after Baltimore’s win in Super Bowl XLVII. His iconic playoff performance not only silenced critics but also helped secure his place among the Ravens’ all-time greats. The run is still celebrated by fans as one of the defining moments in franchise history.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Ravens have built a legacy of excellence, defined by iconic players, unforgettable moments, and a winning culture. From their defensive dominance in the early 2000s to Lamar Jackson’s electrifying plays, the Ravens have provided fans with countless memories. As the franchise continues to evolve, these moments will remain a testament to the team’s resilience and greatness.
