The Bengals have a significant amount of motivation headed into this game, after getting stomped in a big way by the Patriots, and a division rival in the Ravens coming in this week. That said, they’ll definitely have their work cut out for them to solve Baltimore’s stellar defense, and as such, I expect this game to be a fairly low scoring affair.

The big key offensively for the Ravens will be the play of Joe Flacco, who has to be better than he was last week in avoiding the pressure and delivering the ball to his receivers. Turning the ball over multiple times as they against the Jets isn’t an option, considering the level of talent the Bengals can bring to bear if given a short field. Look for him to target Anquan Boldin early and often.

I wouldn’t bet on Carson Palmer having a standout performance, although he’s certainly capable of taking advantage of any mistakes the Ravens make defensively, and that will likely translate over to his wide receivers in Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens. Baltimore doesn’t have the greatest secondary to contain that duo, but they do have the horses to put significant pressure on Palmer throughout the entire day, making it difficult for him to find an opening when it presents itself.

The x factor in this game is going to be Ray Rice, who had a sub-par performance last week in New York and should find the running lanes to be much more open in this contest. I expect him to put up solid numbers in both rushing and receiving, and he should drop in at least one touchdown when things are all said and done.

This game will likely come down to which team is capable of imposing their will on the other, and while the home crowd may be a factor early, I expect the Ravens defense to silence them late with their physicality and relentless pursuit to the football.

Final Prediction: Baltimore 17 – Cincinnati 10

No related posts.