Ravens Week 5: Three Things To Watch For Against The Miami Dolphins

Sep 30, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) looks to throw during the second half of their game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Can you believe it has been three years since the Baltimore Ravens went up against the Miami Dolphins?

The last time both teams faced each other took place in the 2010 season, where the Ravens defeated the Dolphins 26-10. That game, in particular, was a great game all around by the Ravens. Ray Rice had 180 all-purpose yards and Joe Flacco threw 266 yards for two touchdowns.

Three years later, the Ravens hope they can perform the way that they did in 2010’s match-up against the Dolphins.

While we wait to see if that happens, take a look at three things to watch for against today’s game against the Dolphins.

Will Ray Rice Finally Break Out?
It’s beginning to sound like a broken record with Ray Rice and when he will finally break out from his slump. It seems like that question should have been answered during last week’s game against the Buffalo Bills. The Bills presented Rice the perfect opportunity to break out since they have struggled against the run all season long.

Rice ended up only running the ball five times for 17 yards in that game. The only logical reason for running Rice five times could be because the Ravens were being cautious with him and his hip injury, which he suffered in week two against the Cleveland Browns.

If in fact, the Ravens were being cautious with Rice, then today’s match-up against the Dolphins could be the game where they let Rice loose.

The Debut Of New Left Tackle Eugene Monroe:
Newly acquired left tackle, Eugene Monroe, has a lot to show in his first game with the Ravens. For one, he has to show that he is talented enough to stay on the field. Also, he has to show that talent to show that he is well worthy of contract extension. He will get a chance to show all of that, starting in today’s game against the Dolphins.

The Ravens didn’t trade a lot of their picks for somebody who isn’t apart of the future. They believe in his talents and his ability to be the long-term solution at the left tackle position.

A Far More Improved Miami Dolphins Squad:
These aren’t your same old Miami Dolphins. They are far more improved, with what seems to be a long-term answer at the quarterback position with Ryan Tannehill. They also have an aggressive defense, which has shown all season long that they can stop the run.