The Baltimore Ravens are set to clash with the Minnesota Vikings today at 1 p.m. ET at U.S. Bank Stadium in their second preseason game of the 2026 NFL season.
Why it matters: This matchup is a key evaluation point for both teams as they finalize their rosters ahead of the regular season. With many starters expected to sit, focus shifts to depth players and position battles.
The Ravens are coming off a strong performance against the Philadelphia Eagles, where rookie quarterback Joe Fagnano led the team to a 24-7 victory.
Today's game will provide an opportunity for the Ravens' young talent, including tight ends Hibner and Cuevas, to shine.
Both teams engaged in joint practices earlier this week, which could influence their performance today.
Driving the news: Minnesota enters the game as a 3.5-point favorite, largely due to their depth at quarterback and a solid defensive showing in joint practices against Baltimore.
J.J. McCarthy is expected to start for the Vikings, with Carson Wentz and Max Brosmer also available to play.
Lamar Jackson is not expected to suit up for the Ravens, leaving Tyler Huntley and Fagnano to lead the offense.
The game features an Over/Under set at 36.5 points, leaning toward the under due to anticipated low scoring.
State of play: The Ravens are looking to build on their previous success, but today's game presents challenges.
With several key players resting, including Jackson, the focus will be on evaluating the depth chart.
Expectations are high for Fagnano, who completed 22 of 28 passes for 224 yards last week.
Defensively, the Ravens aim to capitalize on potential mistakes by McCarthy, who might be over-aggressive in his role.
The big picture: Both teams are using the preseason to assess their rosters and develop chemistry among backups.
The Vikings finished last season at 9-8, narrowly missing the playoffs, and are looking to improve their standing.
The Ravens ended their previous season at 8-9, and head coach Jesse Minter is focused on implementing his strategies effectively.
Each team has seen notable roster changes, with the Vikings looking to establish their quarterback position following Kyler Murray's competition win.
What they're saying: Analysts are weighing in on the matchup, highlighting the importance of depth.
"Minnesota's depth and defensive performance give them the cleaner edge," said a Covers expert.
Predictions suggest that Minnesota will win the turnover battle, which could be decisive in a close game.
"Expect an ugly, defensive game from both teams today," noted a Baltimore Beatdown analyst.
By the numbers: Key statistics from both teams offer insight into their preseason performances.
The total points set at 36.5 reflects expectations for a low-scoring affair, especially with many starters sitting.
In their last game, the Ravens accumulated 440 yards and 31 first downs against the Eagles.
McCarthy's performance will be closely monitored as he steps into a starting role for the Vikings.
What's next: Fans can catch the game on local TV channels across multiple states or stream it via NFL+.
The game will air on KMSP FOX 9 in Minnesota and WBAL NBC11 in Maryland, among other local channels.
With kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. ET, fans are eager to see how each team’s depth performs.
Following this matchup, both teams will continue to evaluate their rosters as they prepare for the regular season.