Bold Predictions: Ravens vs Titans

The Ravens are in rebound mode for their Week 6 matchup with the Tennessee Titans. A win in hand could be critical as Baltimore faces the Saints, the Panthers and the Steelers in the upcoming weeks. Below, Baltimore Beatdown contributors outline their bold predictions for the contest.

Sage’s predictions:

• Michael Crabtree will reach the end zone.

Since the clock hit zero last Sunday, Crabtree has had all week to marinate on his growing drop count. The 10 year veteran understands that he was brought in to be one of Joe Flacco’s premiere targets, and he will be looking to distance himself from his poor performance in Week 5. Expect him to score for the first time since Week 1.

• Baltimore will continue to struggle on special teams.

The kick returner spot has plagued the Ravens through the first five weeks. Janarion Grant and Tim White both failed to perform and were sent to the practice squad, and John Harbaugh is now even considering receiver John Brown to take over the responsibility. While the hope is that progress can be made this afternoon, it is likely that special teams will still be searching for a reliable, consistent return man.

Vasilis’ predictions:

• Hayden Hurst will lead the Ravens in receiving yards.

The rookie tight end saw only 24 snaps in his debut and is still rounding into form, but the Ravens desperately need his seam stretching ability to complement John Brown on the outside. Tennessee’s trio of talented corners will check Baltimore’s wideouts, forcing Joe Flacco to target Hurst early and often.

• Baltimore’s cornerbacks will hold Corey Davis without a catch.

Davis broke out with nine catches for 161 yards and a touchdown in Week 4 against the Eagles. However, he managed only two grabs against Jacksonville and four against Buffalo. Jimmy Smith, Marlon Humphrey and Brandon Carr will shut down Corey today.

Dustin’s predictions:

• Marcus Mariota will throw for less than 100 yards.

Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota has only thrown for 676 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions so far this season. Against Jacksonville, Mariota threw for just 100 yards and zero touchdowns. Tennessee has relied heavily on the run game and defense to secure victories. While the Jaguars own the league’s number one defense in total yards and passing yards, the Ravens are not far behind, ranked third in total yards and fourth in passing. Mariota will struggle to find any success through the air once again this afternoon.

• Alex Collins will rush for over 100 yards for the first time this season.

It’s no secret that Baltimore’s running game has been an area of disappointment this season. Alex Collins has yet to hit 100 rushing yards in a game so far, and the offensive line has failed to consistently open running lanes. However, the Titans run defense is currently ranked 27th in the NFL. Collins will finally hit 100 yards in a run heavy, defensive game.