When the Baltimore Ravens take on the Miami Dolphins, it will be a battle of two of the biggest giants in the AFC. The Ravens just handled the San Francisco 49ers with ease, and while the Dolphins are a different test of their own, it will require an effort we have seen the Ravens give.
Which players on the Baltimore Ravens have to step up this week if the Ravens want to knock off two of the best teams in the NFL in back-to-back weeks?
3. The Baltimore Ravens need to see an All-Pro game from Justin Madubuike
If the Baltimore Ravens want to beat the Miami Dolphins, then they are going to need a big game from Justin Madubuike. This feels like it should not be an issue when you consider Justin Madubuike is having a career year, and it feels like every game is better than the one he previously played.
Madubuike leads all interior defensive linemen in sacks with 12. There have only been three games this season in which he has not recorded a sack. He has to add to that on Sunday.
This is crucial for two reasons. First, it is an easy matchup for him. The Dolphins are onto their backup left guard and center. Technically, their starting left guard is playing center now. Also, their right guard is questionable for this game and has not played since week 13. Either way, they are weak up front.
Beyond that, the Dolphins are a much faster offense than the 49ers, and they rely on timing even more. Pressure up the gut is the fastest way to disrupt the timing, as Tua Tagovaloia can get the ball out before some edge rushers are able to get to him.
The Ravens need interior pressure, and they are strong here. Miami is weak here. This will decide the game.