Bold Predictions: Ravens vs. Falcons

With the Ravens traveling to Kansas City next week to face a powerhouse Chiefs offense, extending their winning streak, gaining confidence on the road and leaving Atlanta with a victory will be critical for their wild card chances. Below are predictions for how Baltimore’s matchup with the Falcons will turn out.

Sage’s predictions:

• Matt Ryan will not throw an interception.

While Ryan has only thrown five picks on the year, two have come in his last two games against the Cowboys and the Saints. At home, he will protect the ball better against a Ravens defense that has struggled to force turnovers this season.

• The Ravens run game will have their best road performance of the season.

The Falcons 26th ranked rushing defense allows 123.7 rushing yards per game, setting the stage for the Ravens running game to continue to trend upwards after Lamar Jackson’s emergence and Gus Edward’s break out performances have propelled the unit forward.

• Calvin Ridley will put up more yards than Julio Jones.

With the Ravens corners focused on Jones, Alabama rookie Calvin Ridley will have more opportunities to make an impact. Already, Jones was targeted 14 times to Ridley’s 13 in their Week 12 loss to New Orleans. With Ridley’s big play ability, expect him to reach the end zone for the second straight week.

Dustin’s predictions:

• Julio Jones will be held to under 60 yards.

Jones has recorded at least 100 receiving yards in his past six games, but that will come to an end on Sunday against Baltimore’s defense. Cornerback Jimmy Smith has slowly improved since returning from a four-game suspension, Marlon Humphrey is one of the best young corners in the game and Brandon Carr has been the model of consistency this season for the Ravens. The trio will hold Jones in check and keep him under 60 receiving yards.

• Lamar Jackson will have over 400 total yards.

Jackson has shown glimpses of his natural passing ability through his first two starts, but has yet to show what he is fully capable of through the air. On the ground, Jackson has gashed defenses with his speed on the edge. Against Atlanta’s 28th ranked defense, Jackson will throw for at least 300 yards and rush for another 100.