Joe Flacco Returns to Baltimore as Browns Face Ravens in Emotional Matchup

September 10, 2025
Joe Flacco Returns to Baltimore as Browns Face Ravens in Emotional Matchup
  • Joe Flacco, the Ravens' all-time winningest quarterback and Super Bowl XLVII MVP, is returning to Baltimore to face his former team as a member of the Cleveland Browns, marking a highly emotional moment given his history with the franchise.

  • The game also serves as Baltimore's 30th season celebration, featuring a pregame ceremony honoring their 1996 team and a halftime performance by the Marching Ravens.

  • Both teams are seeking their first win of the season, with the Ravens aiming to improve after a slow start last year and the Browns trying to avoid their first 0-2 start since 2017.

  • The game is scheduled for Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium at 1 p.m., with a live Tailgate 19 show at 11 a.m. featuring former Browns players.

  • Both teams feature rookie kickers who missed crucial extra points last week; Baltimore’s Tyler Loop made both attempts, while Cleveland’s Andre Szmyt missed one, which could have impacted the game.

  • Cleveland's defense performed well in their previous game, allowing only 141 yards but struggling to force turnovers, having gone three straight games without a takeaway.

  • Cleveland might try to spoil Baltimore’s celebration, although their current team faces challenges in doing so.

  • Flacco is remembered fondly by former teammates for his leadership and professionalism, with some highlighting his positive influence on team culture.

  • Despite a slow start, the Ravens hope to secure a win to boost their record, especially after losing their season opener to Buffalo in a close 41-40 game.

  • The game carries additional significance as John Modell, son of Art Modell who moved the Browns, will attend to represent his late father, emphasizing the event's historical importance.

  • Shedeur Sanders, the Browns’ rookie quarterback, is at the center of controversy for his limited participation in practice, with reports indicating he is not running scout-team plays and is mainly observing or throwing passes to staff.

  • The Browns added Judkins to improve their run game, which was a weakness in Week 1, and he is expected to debut soon after missing practice since OTAs.

  • Injuries are affecting both teams, with Browns tackle Jack Conklin expected to return after an eye injury, and other key players dealing with health issues that could impact the game.

Summary based on 32 sources


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