2. Run the football:
This goes with the idea that the Ravens want to own the time of possession category. In a game where Joe Flacco threw the football 56 times, the Ravens rushed for 116 yards against the Browns in October. The Browns have the 29th ranked run defense in the NFL. They are also a very aggressive defense. The Ravens rushing attack can hit the Browns where it hurts. Secondly, if the Browns are going to be aggressive with blitzing, Jackson, Gus Edwards and Kenneth Dixon will have chances for long runs.
A great and persistent ground game can tire out great defenses and the Browns don’t have a great defense. The Browns are going to be hungry, but they don’t have as much to play for as the Ravens. If the Ravens run game bullies the Browns defense, the Browns defense will deteriorate throughout the contest. The Ravens have proven that a pass happy attack isn’t going to beat the Browns. A heavy dose of the rushing attack is exactly what the Ravens need.
A great rushing attack is the best friend of the quarterback and that is especially true for Lamar Jackson, who contributes to the running game. When the Ravens offense can keep defenses guessing with their rushing attack, good things happen. The Ravens would have a hard time winning this game if they didn’t stay committed to the rushing attack.