Ravens vs. Rams: Picks and predictions from Ebony Bird
Ian Schultz makes his pick:
They will be in search of their seventh consecutive victory over an LA team desperately seeking to stay in playoff contention in what is a loaded NFC playoff picture. Meanwhile the Ravens look like a lock to win the AFC North and are currently ensconced in the number two seed in the AFC playoff picture, tracking for a first round bye.
The Rams have really struggled to regain the magic from their 2018 Super Bowl appearance especially on the offensive side of the ball. Despite boasting Todd Gurley, Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, Brandin Cooks, and Jared Goff, the Rams sit at 13th in the NFL in total offense. Their offensive line which was a team strength last year has really let them down. Maybe the Ravens rejuvenated pass rush can take advantage of them.
Defensively, the Rams have two of the top 10 defenders in the NFL in CB Jalen Ramsey and DT Aaron Donald. Both players will need to be at their best on Monday night along with the rest of the Rams defense if they want to contain Lamar Jackson and the NFL’s highest scoring offense.
The Rams have the NFL’s fifth best run defense but is important to note that against rushing offenses ranked 17th or better, they surrender 109 yards per game which would rank them middle of the pack in the NFL. The Ravens are first in rushing so don’t be surprised if they have their way with the much lauded Rams run defense.
I am taking the Rams in this game because they need this game significantly more than the Ravens do. A loss and their season is likely over. They prolong their playoff hopes with a 25-23 win over the Ravens.