Ravens vs Raiders: Keys to Victory

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Sep 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib (21) intercepts a pass intended for Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith (89) during the second half at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 19-13. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Key to victory #2: The receivers have to separate and get open

It’s easy to blame Joe Flacco, and he did make some boneheaded mistakes, but his receivers surely didn’t do him any favors against the Broncos. But both played their part as the Ravens had the 26th best passing offense in the league in week 1.

It’s simply inexcusable when your #1 receiver can only manage 2 grabs on 7 targets, and your other starting receiver records only 1 catch for -1 yards. Those are embarrassing numbers, no matter how great of a secondary you are playing.

Unfortunately, the Ravens don’t have a ton of talent at the wide receiver position and will likely struggle until Breshad Perriman can get healthy. They really need to get Michael Campanaro and Maxx Williams, two playmakers, involved going forward.

Marc Trestman might have worked wonders with Jay Cutler in Chicago, but he did so with two #1 wide receivers – Alshon Jeffery and Brandon Marshall, as well as pass catching back Matt Forte and tight end Martellus Bennett.

The Ravens don’t have that kind of talent on their current roster, so Trestman is going to have to adjust accordingly. Dumping it off to your fullback and blocking tight end every play isn’t going to get you any points.

Next: Key to victory #3

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