The Baltimore Ravens are heading into Sunday’s AFC North matchup against the Cleveland Browns riding high after an overtime win over the Atlanta Falcons, even as injuries continue to test their depth and Tyler Huntley prepares to lead the offense once more with Lamar Jackson still sidelined. Divisional games are never easy, but there’s a positive buzz around Baltimore, especially given their knack for winning on the road and a powerful running game that could easily control this contest.
Huntley’s Chance to Build on Success
Tyler Huntley isn’t just filling in; he’s got a real opportunity to show what he can do, especially against a Cleveland defense that has struggled to contain opposing quarterbacks. Every single quarterback the Browns have faced this season has thrown at least one touchdown pass. Huntley himself threw two absolute lasers in the Ravens’ overtime victory against the Falcons, giving that offense a much-needed shot in the arm. Last week, the Ravens were money on third downs, converting eight of 15 attempts, and they finished three red zone trips with touchdowns. If Huntley can replicate that two-touchdown performance, especially after another week of practice with the starters, it’s a huge step. That increased familiarity and improved timing with his guys could seriously boost his confidence, particularly if the Ravens establish the run game early and set up some favorable passing situations. Cleveland’s defense won’t make it easy, but the stage is set for Huntley to build on his momentum.
Baltimore’s Ground Game Is Ready to Dominate the Clock
One of Cleveland’s biggest weaknesses this season has been their inability to control the clock, winning the time-of-possession battle only once. Even in that single game, they barely cracked 30 minutes, holding the ball for just 30:07, and they haven’t topped that mark in any other contest. This is where Baltimore can absolutely own this matchup. The Ravens are steamrolling opponents with their rushing attack, averaging a whopping 164.4 rushing yards per game through their first five outings. That kind of ground production is the perfect foundation to sustain drives, keep Cleveland’s offense cooling its heels on the sideline, and stack points. If Derrick Henry and the rest of the rushing attack get going early, Baltimore will dictate the tempo, make it incredibly tough for the Browns to even think about a comeback, and win the time-of-possession battle comfortably.
Watson’s Sack Problem Is Reaching Critical Levels
Okay, Cleveland fans, let’s talk about Deshaun Watson. The dude has been sacked a staggering 19 times this season, and that number is getting harder to ignore. Just last week, the New York Jets dropped Watson eight times in Week 5. Eight! While the Ravens don’t necessarily need to match that absurd total, getting four sacks against this Browns offense would be a massive contribution. Baltimore’s defense needs to find that perfect balance between aggressive pass-rushing and disciplined containment, especially with Watson’s mobility. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver has already stressed the importance of maintaining assignments and finishing plays. If the Ravens can generate serious pressure without giving Watson easy escape routes, they’re going to force hurried decisions, create chaos, and potentially feast on turnover opportunities. This game is shaping up to be a brutal test for Cleveland’s offensive line.
The Ravens have found ways to win on the road, and with their running game as a strength, they have every reason to believe they can control this matchup. If they take care of the football and win the battle at the line of scrimmage, we could see Baltimore create real separation late in this AFC North clash. This is a huge one for setting the tone in the division.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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