Patriots vs. Ravens Sunday Night Football: Key Facts, Broadcast Details, and What’s at Stake

In a matchup that could reshape the AFC playoff picture, the New England Patriots and the Baltimore Ravens will clash on Sunday night, Dec. 21. The game is set for M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore and will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock. With the Patriots sitting at an 11‑3 record as the conference’s No. 2 seed and the Ravens at 7‑7 fighting for a division title, fans are in for a high‑stakes showdown.

The Stakes for Both Teams

Patriots

• 11‑3 record, No. 2 seed in the AFC
• Had a chance to clinch the AFC East in Week 15 but fell 35‑31 to the Buffalo Bills after surrendering a 21‑0 lead
• Ended a 10‑game winning streak with that loss

Ravens

• 7‑7 record, trailing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC North
• Season has been a roller coaster: 1‑5 start, five straight wins, two losses, and a shutout of the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 15
• Lamar Jackson is chasing his second MVP award and the team needs a division win to reach the postseason

The game’s outcome could determine who moves forward in the AFC playoffs. A Patriots win would keep their momentum, while a Ravens victory could give Baltimore a lifeline in the division race.

Game Logistics

• Date: Sunday, Dec. 21
• Time: 5:20 p.m. PT kickoff
• Location: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore
• Broadcast: NBC and Peacock

The call crew for the broadcast will feature Mike Tirico on play‑by‑play, Cris Collinsworth as analyst, and Melissa Stark on the sidelines. This trio will cover every Sunday Night Football matchup throughout the 2025 season.

Pre‑Game Coverage

Pre‑game action on NBC and Peacock starts at 4 p.m. PT with the show Football Night in America. The lineup for the pre‑game segment includes:

• Maria Taylor
• Jason Garrett
• Chris Simms
• Tony Dungy
• Rodney Harrison
• Mike Florio
• Devin McCourty
• Matthew Berry
• Jac Collinsworth

These hosts will set the stage for the big game, providing analysis, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes looks at both teams.

Streaming and Mobile Options

• Live Stream: Peacock, NBC.com
• Mobile Apps: Peacock mobile app on Apple/Android, NBC mobile app

Fans who prefer to watch on the go can download the respective apps and stream the game live from their smartphones or tablets.

The Musical Show Opening

For the 13th consecutive NFL season, a multi‑platinum, GRAMMY Award‑winning singer will star in the musical show opening for NBC’s Sunday Night Football. While the name isn’t disclosed in the original source, the presence of a high‑profile performer adds extra excitement to the broadcast.

Why This Game Matters

The Patriots, with their strong record, are looking to solidify their standing and potentially secure a top seed. A win would also keep them in contention for the AFC East title, a goal they narrowly missed in Week 15.

The Ravens, on the other hand, are fighting to stay in the playoff conversation. Lamar Jackson’s pursuit of a second MVP award adds personal stakes, while the team’s overall record means they must win the division to make the postseason.

Key Takeaways

• The Patriots hold an 11‑3 record and are the AFC’s No. 2 seed.
• The Ravens are 7‑7, trailing the Steelers in the AFC North.
• The game takes place on Dec. 21 at M&T Bank Stadium with a 5:20 p.m. PT kickoff.
• Broadcast is on NBC and Peacock with a well‑known call crew.
• Pre‑game coverage begins at 4 p.m. PT with Football Night in America.
• Streaming is available via Peacock, NBC.com, and mobile apps.
• A multi‑platinum singer will open the show for the 13th year.

Final Thoughts

With playoff implications hanging in the balance, this Sunday Night Football matchup promises drama, high‑level talent, and a chance for both teams to define their seasons. Whether you’re a Patriots fan hoping for a final push or a Ravens supporter looking for a lifeline, the game on Dec. 21 is one you won’t want to miss.