2. Establishing the run game:
The Ravens goal in this game is incredibly simple. They need to get the lead early and eat up game clock with their offense. This game is going to be played in Miami’s extremely hot September weather. The team that gets worn down defensively is the team that is going to struggle the most. Baltimore has to eat up as much of the game clock as they can. If the Ravens can establish a huge lead in time of possession, the Dolphins defense should be putty by the third quarter.
The only real concern for the defense (providing they don’t go through the motions as previously mentioned) is getting fatigued. The less the defense is on the field, the sharper and the more dominant they will be. Controlling the clock isn’t just about withering the Dolphins down to their breaking point. It’s also about preventing stupid defensive mistakes that could give Miami life in this game. The match ups favor Baltimore. There’s no doubt about that. If the Ravens can manage this game right, they can avoid problems relating to the weather. That starts with running the ball like it’s easy.
The Ravens goal should be 150 rushing yards in this game. The Ravens could probably get that number reached without the help of Lamar Jackson. Jackson is always good for at least a couple of exciting runs. 150 on the ground should get the Ravens what they need, however this is a game where they could go over that mark. Baltimore wants to lead the league in rushing and this game is going to be a great showcase for that.