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Baltimore Ravens vs. Cleveland Browns: 3 key matchups to watch

By Joe Schiller

BALTIMORE, MD - SEPTEMBER 17: Quarterback DeShone Kizer #7 of the Cleveland Browns gets off a pass while being tackled by outside linebacker Terrell Suggs #55 of the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on September 17, 2017 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - SEPTEMBER 17: Quarterback DeShone Kizer #7 of the Cleveland Browns gets off a pass while being tackled by outside linebacker Terrell Suggs #55 of the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on September 17, 2017 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /
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BALTIMORE, MD – AUGUST 10: Offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley #79 of the Baltimore Ravens is intoduced before the start of a preseason game against the Washington Redskins at M&T Bank Stadium on August 10, 2017 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD – AUGUST 10: Offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley #79 of the Baltimore Ravens is intoduced before the start of a preseason game against the Washington Redskins at M&T Bank Stadium on August 10, 2017 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

1. Ronnie Stanley vs. Myles Garrett

The Ravens didn’t have to face Myles Garrett earlier in the season but they’ll see plenty of him on Sunday. The No. 1 overall pick has five sacks in six starts this season and is as athletic as you’ll find on the defensive line. He’ll be matched up against left tackle Ronnie Stanley, who will look to set the edge early and often.

This is going to be a back and forth matchup all game long. After facing T.J. Watt last week Stanley will now come up against another top pass rusher in the rookie class. Now in his second year, Stanley has battled injuries but has held a decimated offensive line together. We’ve seen him completely shut down Khalil Mack earlier in the season. He’s a top graded blocker in the run and pass game this season per Pro Football Focus and he’ll need one of his best performances on Sunday.

Despite the Browns’ struggles, Garrett is arguably their best player on defense. Garrett hasn’t had the rookie year he expected statistically but commands double teams just about every time he’s on the field. He’s explosive and gets off the ball extremely fast. The first step between him and Stanley will be a key factor in who wins this matchup. Look for James Hurst and tight ends to provide help when possible whether it’s a double team or a chip block.

Credit to the Ravens offensive line, they’ve held up this season even with injuries and it’s been key to the recent offensive surge. We could see another 30-point game if Joe Flacco can stay upright and away from Garrett.

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