First and foremost, we extend our most heartfelt prayers and condolences to Damar Hamlin, his family, his medical staff, Tee Higgins, the Bills, and anyone who’s fighting for their life. Football is just a game, and as a coach, even I felt the impact and what transpired on Monday night.
There’s an instant switch that’s flipped in these situations, from intense competitor to stunned onlooker. To be frank with you all, I don’t even want to think about football right now—and that’s saying a lot. But having been in a similar situation before, I know distractions can help, so here we go.
Here are three ways the Ravens can beat the Bengals, end their 2022 regular season on a high note, and enter the playoffs with momentum.
Keep the pressure on
When these teams last played on October 9th, the Ravens sacked Joe Burrow for a total loss of 27 yards. While that’s not an insurmountable obstacle for an offense to overcome, the value of those sacks is found in failed 3rd down conversions and interrupted momentum.
The Bengals were a combined 4-for-11 on 3rd and 4th downs in that game. They obviously have elite talent at the skill positions, so any glitch in their tempo is a good thing for Baltimore.
The Ravens are tied for 5th in the league in sacks per game. The Bengals are ranked 29th. The ways in which Baltimore has struggled are out there for all to see, but this is a part of the game—a key part of the game—where they’re clear of the Bengals.
Bringing constant pressure makes sense, but some could be hesitant knowing the voids that blocked blitzes leave on the back end of the defense. That is something the Ravens need to accept, as the alternative (sitting back and hoping you can cover these receivers and tight ends) is by far a worse option.
Commit to the run
John Harbaugh said he would’ve liked to see Gus Edwards play more against the Steelers. Amen. The Ravens are unquestionably a better team when they commit to constantly running the ball.
Since 2018 (when Lamar Jackson was drafted), the Ravens are 31-8 when rushing for at least 175 yards in a game (playoffs included). They’ve won 79.5 percent of their games when rushing for at least 175 yards. Especially given the dearth of options at wide receiver, Baltimore ought to focus all the more on their running game. Furthermore, a sustained running game directly leads to less opportunities for Cincinnati’s explosive offense.
In other words, do what you do best and keep the opponent from doing the same.
Win the 1st quarter
When you’re playing a road game, especially when playoff seeding is on the line, how you start the game is crucial. The last thing the Ravens want is to go behind early and have to match the Bengals, score for score, for the remainder of the game.
Thankfully, Baltimore has done well in first quarters of games this season. The Bengals rank 5th in the NFL in 1st quarter points scored (5.6), but the Ravens rank 2nd in the NFL in 1st quarter points allowed (2.3).
Another way to look at is if the Ravens can hold the Bengals to a field goal or less in the 1st quarter, they’ll be in good shape. However, if the Bengals score a touchdown or more in the 1st quarter, even if the Ravens score themselves, Baltimore will be in trouble.
While this game may not end up meaning much in terms of playoff seeding, both teams will absolutely be playing to win.
Baltimore is 3-7 in their last 10 games played in Cincinnati. It’s time for a change.
Vegas
As of Monday morning, the Bengals were favored by seven points and the point total was set at 42.5. As of Tuesday morning, the lines were taken down. Obviously, football is the least important thing at a time like this, but when the game is eventually played, the Bengals will be the favored team.
Going by the previous line, I agree this will be a one-score game. I’m also leaning toward the over, even though it’s an outdoor game to be played in January.
This is one of those games that, due to the rivalry, is likely going to be closer than you might think. I think the Bengals win a close one, but I’m going to take the points and the over.
Prediction: Bengals 24, Ravens 20 (+7, over 42.5)
Born in Baltimore, Mike had long been drawn to sports of all kinds. Growing up watching Cal Ripken play ever day gave him a great example for which to attack every endeavor he undertakes.
When the Ravens came to town, though, that’s when Mike found his passion. Since that time, he’s tried to gain every bit of knowledge he could. Now as a high school coach, Mike is able to take his film study and appreciation of the game to a new level.
To engage with Mike on social media, follow him on Twitter @MikeFastNFL.