by Asaf Winer
Joe Flacco has led the Ravens to an impressive 3-0 start and keeps showing why his deep run into the playoffs last year was all but a rookie fluke. On the other side, the Patriots dynasty may or may not be over, but as long as the names Bill Belichick and Tom Brady are relevant, New England is still a force to be reckoned with.
Ravens on Offense
This year’s Ravens are breaking the Baltimore mold of weak offense/smothering defense. So far, Baltimore has put up the most points in the AFC at just over 34 per game. But even though the Ravens won their first 3 games, the Chargers was the only decent team they beat. Offensively, Flacco has yet to be tested against a solid defense. This week, he’ll need help from his 1-2 punch combo that features Ray Rice and Willis McGahee out of the backfield. These two are scary; if they can both get going, they’ll be able to wear down the shorthanded Patriots defense. The O-line has to hold its own and protect Flacco so that he doesn’t get flustered like his fellow-sophomore QB, Matt Ryan, did against New England last week. If the Ravens’ Offensive Coordinator Cam Cameron sticks to his usual balanced attack and set up the run first, Flacco will be more comfortable in the passing game. Then the Ravens can get aggressive in their play-calling by throwing the ball downfield on 1st and 2nd downs and catching New England’s defense off guard. Where’s Bruschi, Vrabel and co. when you need them?
Patriots on Offense
Tom Brady’s confidence is key for the offense to roll against Baltimore. He seems shaky in the pocket at times, and the Ravens will definitely look to throw his rhythm off. Fred Taylor showed he still has some fire left when he ran for 105 yards and a touchdown against Atlanta. This week Maroney’s fresh legs will also have to step up for the Patriots to get something going against the best rush defense in the league. You can count on the Ravens to bring the heat to Brady whenever he drops back to pass. Although the Ravens’ D doesn’t look as dominant with Rex Ryan gone, freaks like Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, and Ed Reed are still around and salivating at the chance to hit Mr. Brady. New England’s O-line has to pick up the blitzes and give Brady a chance to make some throws downfield. If Wes Welker comes back strong from his injury, he could be the difference-maker for the Patriots on offense. Not only is he a quick, sure bet for Brady, but he can draw defenders and free up Randy Moss. Toss one up and let Moss run under it. He can still find holes and make any defense look like Swiss cheese.
Even though this game will be played in Gillette Stadium, I’m going with talent and power over experience and grit. Unlike past Ravens teams, these Ravens will give up some points, but they’ll still outscore the Pats at the end of the day.
Prediction
Baltimore 30
New England 24
