The most important thing the Ravens earned is three weeks’ rest
Home-field advantage is a sweet treat for the Ravens and their fans, but the far more valuable prize was a first-round bye that will afford an extra two weeks — they will have little incentive next Sunday against the Steelers — of rest and recuperation to a roster that needs it badly.
If the Ravens needed to beat Pittsburgh next weekend or win a wild-card game the weekend after, Hamilton’s knee, Stephens’ foot, Humphrey’s calf and Zeitler’s right leg would be urgent, vital concerns.