Christmas Day promises more than just holiday cheer — it’s delivering an exciting NFL clash between the Baltimore Ravens and the Houston Texans.
Both teams are vying for critical postseason positioning, and with playoff implications on the line, this matchup is one to watch.
Let’s break down the key storylines heading into this festive showdown.
Ravens eyeing AFC supremacy
Led by their electric quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Ravens enter this game as one of the AFC’s top contenders.
Sitting near the top of the conference standings, Baltimore are looking to solidify home-field advantage in the playoffs.
Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities, combined with a dominant defence, make the Ravens a formidable opponent.
Texans’ resurgent under C.J. Stroud
Young quarterback C.J. Stroud was a revelation for the Texans last season as he led them to a division title on the way to claiming the Offensive Rookie of the Year Award.
The second overall pick has exceeded all expectations and has continued to play with poise and precision well beyond his years.
Stroud’s ability to keep Houston competitive in tight games has turned the Texans into playoff hopefuls after a challenging few seasons. They head into Wednesday's game with a 9-6 record.
Key matchup: Ravens’ defence vs. Texans’ passing game
Baltimore boasts one of the league’s most suffocating defences, led by Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton.
However, they’ll face a serious challenge from Stroud and the Texans’ potent aerial attack, featuring standout receiver Tank Dell and the experienced Nico Collins.
The battle between Stroud’s arm and the Ravens’ pass rush could decide the game.
Can Houston’s defence contain Lamar Jackson?
Slowing down Lamar Jackson is no easy task. The Texans’ defence, while improved, will need to be at its best to prevent Jackson from taking over the game.
Defensive lineman Will Anderson Jr. could play a pivotal role in disrupting Baltimore’s offense and forcing mistakes.
The coaching chess match
Baltimore’s John Harbaugh is a seasoned veteran, with years of playoff experience and a Super Bowl win to his name (from back in 2012). On the other sideline, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans impressed in his first year in 2023 and is once again working magic, transforming the team into a competitive unit. How these two strategists approach the game will be fascinating to watch.
Playoff stakes on the line
For Baltimore, a win keeps them in the hunt for a high seed and it will strengthen their grip in the race for the AFC North title - they come into the game level with the Steelers (who face the Chiefs on Christmas Day), a win could see them go top of AFC North.
For Houston, a victory could be crucial for their post-season aspirations and prove they can hang with the NFL’s elite.
The high stakes add extra intensity to this Christmas Day clash. The Texans will have the home-field advantage and a lively holiday crowd cheering them on.
NRG Stadium promises to be rocking as fans hope their team can deliver a Christmas miracle against a top-tier opponent.
Prediction: a close contest
The Ravens are favoured, but the Texans have shown they can punch above their weight.
Expect a competitive game that comes down to key plays in the fourth quarter. Baltimore’s experience might give them the edge, but don’t count out Houston’s youthful exuberance and determination.
This Christmas Day showdown has all the ingredients for a classic—top-tier talent, playoff stakes, and a festive setting. Whether you’re a Ravens or Texans fan, it’s a game you won’t want to miss.
Watch the NFL 2024-25 season live on DAZN
NFL Game Pass on DAZN gives you access to watch every NFL game during the 2024 regular season and playoffs, including the Super Bowl. This is available worldwide on DAZN, excluding the United States and China.
That's 335 games per season, and each match is available live* and on demand and is available either as a standalone subscription - monthly or annually - or as an add-on to an existing DAZN package to customers**.
You can watch NFL on DAZN literally everywhere and in any way, via your Smart TV, smartphone, tablet, game console, and PC/MAC/laptop.
For more information and to sign up, head here now.
*In the United Kingdom, up to two Sunday games per week will air on DAZN on a 24-hour tape delay.
** Viewers in Canada can access all NFL content through their regular DAZN subscription.