Baltimore Ravens vs. Oakland Raiders: 3 key matchups
By Joe Schiller
Ready for Baltimore Ravens football today? Here are three key matchups you should be looking out for.
Losers of two straight, the Baltimore Ravens (2-2) head cross-country to Oakland to try to turn things around against the Raiders (2-2). This is the third straight meeting between these two teams, with the Raiders winners of the last two matchups. It’s been heartbreak city for the Ravens who had late leads in both games, but couldn’t hold on for the win.
Things will be a little bit different this time around. Injuries have hurt both teams coming into this game. Most notably, the Raiders will be without starting quarterback Derek Carr, who is dealing with a transverse fracture in his back. How will this affect the game today?
I take a look at three key matchups you should be watching come game time.
Ravens O-Line vs. Khalil Mack
This matchup scares me, a lot. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year Khalil Mack comes up against a struggling Ravens offensive line. Mack is an absolute monster, there’s really no other way to put it. The fourth-year pass rusher is coming off two straight seasons with double digit sacks and is on pace to do the same this season. He’s quick off the edge, can bull rush or beat you with pass rush moves.
Lined up as a left defensive end, he’s going to face off against former teammate and current starting right tackle Austin Howard. Howard is one of the signings the Ravens made to bolster an injury riddled offensive line. He’s been average this season, but especially poor coming up against the better pass rushers in the league.
Mack is going to have a big day against the Ravens offensive line. They’re seemingly on their last leg and without Marshal Yanda, it’s hard to fully feel confident with the protection up front. I expect at least a sack, likely more from Mack during this game. Joe Flacco has struggled to get the passing game going and will have another difficult time staying upright in the pocket this week.