3 bold predictions for Ravens vs 49ers on Christmas Day

The Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers enter Week 16 tied with the best record in football at 11-3, both leading their conferences and already in possession of a postseason berth.

The 49ers are riding the longest winning streak league-wide with six consecutive victories. The Ravens are right behind them with a four-game winning streak of their own having won eight of their last nine games.

Here are 3 bold predictions for this Christmas day battle.

1. Justice Hill steps up

The Ravens suffered another heartbreaking injury last week in the victory over the Jaguars on Sunday Night football.

Budding homegrown star Keaton Mitchell suffered a torn ACL which will keep him out for the remainder of the season. Mitchell had emerged as a huge playmaker in the Ravens offense, giving them a great change-of-pace running back to pair with Gus Edwards.

Earlier in the season, that role was filled by Justice Hill, and I expect him to step back into that role with Mitchell out for the season.

Before the rise of Keaton Mitchell, Justice Hill was putting together a career-best season. He's rushed for 313 yards on a very efficient 4.4 yards per carry while also having 17 catches.

The 49ers feature one of the best rushing defenses in football, but they had some struggles against the Cardinals last week. They allowed Arizona to rush for over 230 yards, so I could see the Ravens testing the 49ers run defense again this week.

I think Justice Hill will be a huge part of that plan, finishing with over 100 total yards and a touchdown this week.