Ravens Prepare for AFC North Battle Against Bengals with Momentum on Their Side

The Baltimore Ravens will face the Cincinnati Bengals in an AFC North showdown at Paycor Stadium, marking the first divisional contest for both teams this season. As the Ravens enter the game following impressive victories, the Bengals aim to capitalize on their recent success to avoid a 1-4 start this season. The match is set for Sunday at 1 p.m. Eastern Time.

The Ravens, who started with two losses, have shown significant improvement, clinching wins against the Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills to restore a .500 record. The Bengals, having secured their first victory against the Carolina Panthers with a 34-24 win, are keen to maintain their momentum.

Key Matchups to Watch

Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson is expected to deliver another stellar performance against the Bengals, having previously dominated at Paycor Stadium with a 3-0 career record there. Jackson’s impressive history in Cincinnati includes completing 49 of 68 passes, totaling 573 yards, eight touchdowns, and one interception, complemented by significant rushing stats.

Tight end Mark Andrews, a critical component of the Ravens’ offensive success, will face Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson, who has recorded the most tackles by a Bengals player in four games since 1994. Wilson’s previous season included a tackle on Andrews that sidelined him in 2023.

On the defensive front, Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson, who matched second place in the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season, will challenge Ravens’ Ronnie Stanley. Stanley is currently serving an All-Pro season and will look to secure his quarterback from Hendrickson’s threats.

Nate Wiggins, a burgeoning figure in the Ravens’ defense, is tasked with defending against the Bengals’ high-profile receiving duo of Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. His performance could be pivotal in weakening the Bengals’ potent passing attack, led by quarterback Joe Burrow.

Ravens’ Offensive Strategy

The Ravens are poised to retain their current offensive line configuration, which proved effective in their recent triumph over the Bills. The reshuffling had seen Patrick Mekari at left guard and Roger Rosengarten at right tackle, contributing to 271 rushing yards and two touchdowns without allowing any pressure on quarterback Lamar Jackson.

Ravens Running Back Derrick Henry

Running back Derrick Henry has been a crucial player for the Ravens, posting 350 rushing yards and three touchdowns in the last two games. His exceptional performance, highlighted by an 87-yard touchdown run against the Bills, poses a significant threat to a Bengals defense that has struggled against the run this year, ranking among the highest in rushing yards and touchdowns conceded.