In this 4-part series, I’m going to give my game-by-game predictions for the Baltimore Ravens 2020 NFL season. Without further ado lets get into weeks 1-4:
Week One
Who: Cleveland Browns
When: 9/13 @ 10:00 AM
Where: M&T Bank Stadium
The Ravens open the season with a big divisional game against the Cleveland Browns and I expect it to be a close one. The Browns seem to always give the Ravens struggles and last season’s blowout loss in week four is a prime example. The Ravens will have their hands full trying to limit Clevelands superstars on both offense and defense, but I believe they have the roster to do so.
The matchup I’ll be hyper-focused on is between Browns running back Nick Chubb and the Ravens defensive line. In the aforementioned week four loss, last season Chubb ran for 165-yards and 3 touchdowns which really set the tone for the Ravens defensive overhaul this offseason. With the additions of Derek Wolfe, Calais Campbell, and rookie Justin Madubuike, it’ll be hard for Chubb to replicate that performance.
What I think gives Baltimore the edge over Cleveland is actually COVID-19 and the impact it’s had on a team with a brand new coaching staff. COVID-19 has been a huge hurdle for NFL teams as they prepare for the 2020 NFL season and I believe the teams with the best GM-HC-QB relationship will be the most successful (I.e. Baltimore). It’s tough enough for a new head coach to implement his philosophy and offense during a normal offseason, so I can’t imagine how difficult it’s been this year.
Predicted Score: 27-14, Ravens