Ravens’ Young Receivers Make Early Statement in Preseason Win Over Eagles.

BALTIMORE — The Baltimore Ravens entered their preseason opener looking for signs of progress from a young group of offensive playmakers. By the end of Saturday night, several rookies had given the coaching staff plenty to build on. Baltimore defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 24-7 behind an impressive showing from its rookie receiving corps, with wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane delivering one of the biggest highlights of the night. Lane, a third-round draft pick out of USC, caught three passes for 38 yards and scored Baltimore’s first touchdown on a 16-yard reception. The 22-year-old secured the pass near the 5-yard line before fighting through two Philadelphia defenders to reach the end zone. The performance continued what has already been an encouraging start for Lane, who has generated attention throughout training camp. Lane was not the only Ravens rookie who made an impact. Fourth-round selections Matt Hibner and Elijah Sarratt combined for 11 catches and 127 receiving yards. Their production helped Baltimore finish with 440 total yards while Philadelphia was held to just 159. With Lamar Jackson sitting out the preseason opener, Tyler Huntley handled Baltimore’s first two possessions and looked comfortable running the offense. Huntley completed six of seven passes for 76 yards, including a 29-yard connection with Hibner.

Undrafted rookie quarterback Joe Fagnano took over and received an extended opportunity. He finished 22 of 28 for 223 yards, throwing a touchdown and one interception. His touchdown came when he connected with Lane early in the second quarter to give Baltimore the lead. The Ravens continued to control the game after halftime. Kicker Tyler Loop connected on a 42-yard field goal in the third quarter after missing a 49-yard attempt earlier in the game. Running back Adam Randall later scored on a 4-yard run, while quarterback Austin Reed added another rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Philadelphia struggled to establish any offensive rhythm for most of the night. Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton completed three of six passes for 20 yards, while Tanner McKee went six of 10 for 30 yards. The Eagles finally reached the end zone late when rookie quarterback Cole Payton connected with Erik Ezukanma for a 6-yard touchdown. Payton finished four of nine for 37 yards. Philadelphia’s defense did create a few opportunities to keep the game competitive. Kelee Ringo intercepted Fagnano in the end zone late in the second quarter, and Shaun Wade forced a Sarratt fumble in the third that was recovered by Ambry Thomas. Still, the Eagles were unable to turn those takeaways into enough points.

For Baltimore, the preseason victory was less about the final score and more about the early development of its younger players. Lane, Hibner and Sarratt all showed potential in their first preseason action, giving the Ravens an encouraging look at the depth developing around their offense. Baltimore will continue its preseason schedule on the road against the Minnesota Vikings next Saturday. Philadelphia will travel to face the New England Patriots.