Three Keys to the Ravens Seizing the AFC North
Photo Credit: Dylan Buell, Getty Images
The 2-1 Baltimore Ravens have a chance to seize control of the AFC North over the next two weeks with wins over the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers. Baltimore is currently tied with the Steelers for the divisional lead, with both teams going into this week with a 1-0 record against their division. However, the Ravens have an advantage playing two rivals in back-to-back weeks, whereas Pittsburgh only has one divisional game over the next two weeks. Divisional games are always harder than out-of-division games, so how can the Ravens take sole possession of the AFC North? Here are three keys to their success.
Run, Run, and Run some more
Even with running back JK Dobbins out for the season with a torn Achilles, Baltimore’s bread and butter has been making plays off a strong running attack, led by Gus Edwards and 2019 MVP Lamar Jackson. The Ravens boast the 5th best rushing attack in the league (ESPN), rushing for 158 yards per game, gaining 4.5 yards per carry. While the Browns run defense only allows 52 yards per game, they have yet to play a dual-threat QB the likes of Jackson, who’s as dangerous on the ground as he is using his legs, and while Gus Edwards’ total numbers won’t wow anybody, his 5.0 yards per carry make him a dangerous threat on the ground.
2. Force CLE/PIT to Win through the Air
While Pittsburgh and Cleveland are both 2-1 themselves, they have struggled with quarterback play. Deshaun Watson has turned the ball over 4 times this season by virtue of two lost fumbles and two interceptions. He’s fumbled the ball two more times as well, and while the Browns recovered those plays, it shows he’s played recklessly through his first three games. Kenny Pickett is fairing no better so far, throwing three interceptions himself. If the Ravens are going to win the next two games, they must force Deshaun Watson and Kenny Pickett to try and beat them through the air and create turnovers.
3. Feed Mark Andrews Early and Often
With both Rashod Bateman and Odell Beckham Jr. sidelined with injuries, it is time for John Harbaugh and the Ravens to rely on Mark Andrews to carry the load on offense. Mark Andrews has been Lamar Jackson’s safety blanket over the past few seasons, and while he’s off to slow start this season with only 9 receptions for 80 yards, Andrews is arguably a top 3 tight end in this league, and it is only a matter of time before he starts to heat up. Lamar can run for days, but he’s going to need Andrews to put some points on the board in order to win the next two games and take full control of their division. Feed him early and often to open up receivers like Zay Flowers on the outside.