John Harbaugh Remains Confident: Can the 1–5 Ravens Still Make the Playoffs?

(AP Photo/Nick Wass, File)

BALTIMORE — As the Baltimore Ravens head into their bye week with a disappointing 1–5 record, head coach John Harbaugh is maintaining faith that his team can still make a playoff run — even with history stacked against them.

Since the NFL’s inaugural postseason in 1933, only 1% of teams that began 1–5 or worse have managed to reach the playoffs. The rare few who pulled it off include the 1970 Cincinnati Bengals, 2015 Kansas City Chiefs, 2018 Indianapolis Colts, and 2020 Washington Football Team.

“Our focus going forward is on what we can accomplish over the next 11 games,” Harbaugh said Monday. “We’re going to try to earn our way into the playoffs — and yes, it hasn’t been done often with our record. But we still believe we can do it.”

A Tough Start Against Top Competition

Part of Baltimore’s early-season struggles can be attributed to injuries and an unusually difficult schedule. According to ESPN Analytics, the Ravens faced the toughest strength of schedule in the NFL over the first six weeks, with losses to the Buffalo Bills (4–1), Detroit Lions (4–2), Kansas City Chiefs (3–3), Houston Texans (2–3), and Los Angeles Rams (4–2).

Fortunately for Baltimore, the remainder of the season appears more favorable. Their strength of schedule for the final 11 weeks ranks 27th, and their current playoff probability stands at 24.8%, per ESPN Analytics.

“If I didn’t think we had the talent, the work ethic, or the care factor from everyone in this building, I wouldn’t be as optimistic as I am,” Harbaugh explained. “I’m not standing here to sell false hope. I’m being honest about where we are and what it’ll take to turn this around.”

Lamar Jackson’s Return Could Be the Turning Point

The Ravens’ offense has struggled mightily without quarterback Lamar Jackson, who has missed the past two games due to a hamstring injury. Baltimore lost both contests and scored just 13 total points during his absence.

Jackson, the two-time NFL MVP, is expected to return following the bye. Since taking over as the starter midway through the 2018 season, the Ravens have gone 71–27 (.725) with him under center — a testament to his value to the franchise.

When asked how much Jackson’s return could boost the team’s morale, Harbaugh responded with humor and honesty: “If I was sitting on a couch with a psychiatrist right now, I’d have to say I’m leaning really hard into that.”

Unfamiliar Territory for Harbaugh

At 1–5, the Ravens have tied the worst start in franchise history, matching their 2015 season, when they finished 5–11. For Harbaugh — one of the NFL’s longest-tenured and most respected coaches — this season has presented unfamiliar challenges.

Still, the veteran coach insists that both he and the organization remain united and determined. When asked about team owner Steve Bisciotti’s reaction to the slow start, Harbaugh praised his support.

“All I can tell you is that he’s been great,” Harbaugh said. “Of course, he wants to win. We talk all the time, and he’s turning over every rock, just like we are.”

Looking Ahead

Despite daunting odds, the Ravens remain focused on the task ahead. With Lamar Jackson set to return and a lighter schedule awaiting them, Baltimore believes its playoff hopes are far from over.

Harbaugh summed it up best: “We know what the numbers say, but we also know what we’re capable of. The story isn’t finished yet.”