Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) throws as Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) applies pressure during the first half at M&T Bank Stadium. Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Ravens botched snap leads to Rams safety

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 12/10/23

A crucial error by the Baltimore Ravens could make a huge difference in their matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.

With 5:58 remaining in the third quarter, Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum snapped the ball too early, and it flew past quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson kicked it out of the end zone, resulting in a safety and giving the Rams a 22-20 lead.

Rams get two points on the safety!

: #LARvsBAL on FOX
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/pWMED8SAQa pic.twitter.com/BykXoyDiKy
— NFL (@NFL) December 10, 2023

While the Ravens (9-3) are a more talented team, it's not surprising that the Rams (6-6) are giving them some trouble. Los Angeles has won three straight games and averaged 30 points per game during the streak, the fourth most in the NFL.

Still, Baltimore's execution should be sharper at this point in the season. And the Ravens are trying to secure the AFC's No. 1 seed. If they beat the Rams, the New York Times simulator gives them a 43 percent chance to clinch the top spot, compared to an 18 percent chance if they lose.

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