In one of the most thrilling season openers in NFL history, the Buffalo Bills staged an incredible fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the Baltimore Ravens 41-40 on Matt Prater’s 32-yard field goal as time expired.
The Bills vs Ravens matchup lived up to its billing as a potential AFC Championship preview, featuring superstar performances from Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, and breakout rookie Keon Coleman.
The Game-Winning Moment
With the Bills trailing 40-25 with just over five minutes remaining, Josh Allen orchestrated one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent memory.
After scoring two touchdowns and cutting the lead to 40-38, Allen led a nine-play, 66-yard drive in the final 1:26, setting up Matt Prater for the game-winning kick.
As the clock hit triple zeros, Prater drilled the 32-yard field goal, sending Highmark Stadium into a frenzy and completing the Bills’ improbable 41-40 victory.
Matt Prater: The Hero in His Bills Debut
Matt Prater made an immediate impact in his Buffalo Bills debut, replacing the injured Tyler Bass. The veteran kicker delivered when it mattered most, connecting on two crucial field goals:
- 43-yard field goal as time expired in the first half
- 32-yard game-winning field goal as time expired in regulation
Prater’s performance epitomized the Bills’ never-say-die attitude, as he calmly delivered under pressure to secure the victory just days after joining the team.
Derrick Henry Dominates Despite Heartbreaking Loss
Derrick Henry was nearly unstoppable for the Baltimore Ravens, putting up monster numbers that would typically guarantee victory:
- 18 carries for 169 yards and 2 touchdowns
- Long run of 49 yards
- Key fumble with 3:06 remaining that opened the door for Buffalo’s comeback
Henry dominated the Bills’ defense throughout the game, continuing his trend of success against Buffalo. However, his crucial fumble in the fourth quarter proved costly, as it gave Josh Allen and the Bills the opportunity they needed to mount their historic comeback.
Josh Allen’s Historic Performance
Josh Allen delivered an MVP-caliber performance, leading the Bills back from a 15-point fourth-quarter deficit. His final stats tell the story of a quarterback who refused to lose:
- 33 of 46 passing for 394 yards and 2 touchdowns
- 14 carries for 30 yards and 2 rushing touchdowns
- Zero interceptions despite 46 pass attempts
Allen became the first quarterback in NFL history to throw for at least 250 yards and rush for two touchdowns in a Week 1 game. His ability to extend plays with his legs while maintaining precision as a passer kept the Ravens’ defense off balance all night.
Keon Coleman’s Breakout Performance
Rookie wide receiver Keon Coleman announced his arrival in the NFL with a spectacular performance, proving to be Josh Allen’s most reliable target:
- 8 receptions for 112 yards and 1 touchdown
- Key 10-yard touchdown catch on a deflected pass on fourth-and-2
- Several clutch catches in crucial moments throughout the game
Coleman’s 112-yard performance showcased his ability to create separation and make contested catches, establishing himself as a vital weapon in the Bills’ passing attack for the 2025 season.
Game Flow and Key Moments
The Ravens appeared to be in control for most of the game, with Lamar Jackson efficiently managing the offense and Derrick Henry gashing the Bills’ defense. Baltimore scored on seven of their first eight possessions and built a 15-point lead in the fourth quarter.
However, the Bills’ defense made crucial stops when it mattered most, forcing a three-and-out after Allen’s second rushing touchdown. This gave Allen one final opportunity, which he capitalized on with the game-winning drive.
What This Means Moving Forward
This Bills vs Ravens thriller sets the tone for what should be an exciting 2025 NFL season. The Bills demonstrated incredible resilience and showed they can win close games against elite competition. For the Ravens, despite the loss, they proved they can move the ball effectively against top-tier defenses.
The performances of Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, and Matt Prater will be remembered as defining moments of Week 1, while Keon Coleman’s emergence gives Bills fans reason for optimism as the season progresses.
Where to Watch Future Games
For fans wondering where to watch future Bills and Ravens games, most NFL matchups can be found on:
- Sunday Night Football on NBC
- NFL Sunday Ticket for out-of-market games
- Local CBS and FOX affiliates for regional games
- NFL+ for mobile streaming
This Bills vs Ravens instant classic will surely be replayed throughout the season as a reminder of why the NFL remains the most exciting sports league in America.
Note: All stats and information are from the Bills vs Ravens game played on September 7, 2025, verified from official NFL and team sources.
Last modified: September 8, 2025
