Mitchell has yet to log a carry this season, while Ali has managed just nine. Nonetheless, Head Coach John Harbaugh appreciates Mitchell’s performance in recent practices following his comeback from last season’s knee injury that ended his year prematurely. “Keaton’s prepared,” Harbaugh remarked. “There’s varying degrees of readiness.

He’s recovering from the injury, but in practice, we’ve observed consistent improvements in his explosiveness and quickness, and he’s been impressive.” Mitchell’s remarkable speed brought a dynamic element to Baltimore’s running game last season, as he accumulated 396 rushing yards, scored two touchdowns, and averaged 8.4 yards per rush.

Although he participated in three games earlier this year, he only played four offensive snaps and has been inactive for the past three weeks. Mitchell is undeniably eager to return to action. “I’m incredibly restless,” Mitchell admitted. “It’s been a year, far too long. I’m ready.” Ali, a fifth-round selection from Marshall, had his most significant playing time in Week 15 against the New York Giants, carrying the ball eight times for 34 yards.

Harbaugh believes the experience against New York might be beneficial for Ali if needed. “I think he’ll be prepared,” Harbaugh commented. “He’s solid in pass protection, he understands his responsibilities, but you don’t truly know until you’re out there in a regular game, facing all the challenges that come with it. He’ll have a chance to demonstrate what he’s capable of.”

Kyle Hamilton is unfazed by the demanding schedule. Wednesday will mark the Ravens’ third game in 11 days, with an opportunity to secure a 3-0 record during this challenging period. Hamilton emphasized that the players must not let the unusual schedule disrupt their focus.

“Every team playing on Wednesday faces it, so we’re not complaining,” Hamilton stated. “It’s just part of the business.” While playing on Wednesday is atypical, the Ravens have a standard four-day turnaround similar to playing on a Sunday followed by a Thursday night game. All four teams competing on Christmas played on Saturday to allow for four days of rest. “It was odd seeing the games today (Sunday),” Hamilton noted.

“It’s nice to get them done quickly—just boom, boom, boom—three games completed, and now we have Cleveland after this week and then the playoffs.” With only four teams playing on Christmas, the Ravens will be in the spotlight, which Hamilton enjoys. Last year, he had an outstanding game on Christmas against the San Francisco 49ers, intercepting two passes and contributing to the Ravens’ decisive 33-19 win.

“Of course, I wish we could be home celebrating with family, but it’s not in the job description,” Hamilton said. “We’re excited to perform in front of the world. Netflix numbers might be slightly exaggerated, like the Mike Tyson fight, but it’s a privilege to do what we love on gameday with all our families watching from home.”