The Baltimore Ravens (6-3) won their third straight game and fourth in a row, defeating the New Orleans Saints 27-13 to extend their lead atop the AFC North.

The defence of Baltimore dominated the game, earning four sacks, including 2.5 by Justin Houston.

The Saints (3-6) have lost three of four.

When the Ravens needed it the most, their defence delivered its most dominating performance of the season. The Ravens limited the Saints to 243 yards, the fewest yards allowed by New Orleans this season.

Outside linebacker Justin Houston delivered 2.5 sacks and a fourth-quarter interception.

He became the first player in Ravens history with three consecutive multiple-sack games.

Houston was the team's leading playmaker, as the defence didn't allow a touchdown until four minutes remained.

Because the offence is so injured, this was a timely effort by the defence. Lamar Jackson was missing Pro Bowl tight end Mark Andrews (shoulder and knee injuries), No. 1 wide receiver Rashod Bateman (foot injury, gone for season), and his top two running backs (J.K. Dobbins is on injured reserve with a knee injury and Gus Edwards was inactive with a hamstring injury).

Nonetheless, the Ravens won their third straight game and enter the bye week with a one-game lead over the Cincinnati Bengals in the AFC North.