Ravens at Washington: 5 players to watch

The Ravens had a disappointing performance against the Chiefs on Monday. Now, they will attempt to bounce back against the Washington Football Team. Washington is currently 1-2 under new head coach Ron Rivera. They lost to the Browns 34-20 last week. Rookie defensive end Chase Young has started the season strong with 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble, but he is expected to be out with a groin injury. Here are five players to watch:

Gus Edwards

The Ravens have three good options at running back, but Edwards continue to be one of the most efficient players in the NFL. Edwards was second in the NFL in yards per carry among running backs last season. He is off to a strong start again this season. He is currently averaging 7.2 yards per carry, which is first among running backs (minimum 15 carries). Despite his performance, Edwards only played 13 snaps against the Chiefs. The Browns rushed for 158 yards against Washington last Sunday, and Nick Chubb averaged 5.7 yards per carry and scored two touchdowns. The coaching staff needs to get Edwards on the field more against Washington.

Devin Duvernay

Duvernay’s 93-yard kickoff return touchdown was one of the only highlights in Monday night’s game for the Ravens. Duvernay has game-breaking speed. He recorded a 40-yard dash time of 4.39 seconds at the combine. At Texas, he was a complete receiver recording 106 receptions for 1,386 yards and nine touchdowns in his senior season. It was clear against the Chiefs that the Ravens offense needs another weapon in the passing game. The answer may be already on their roster. This season, Duvernay has only been targeted five times and played a total of 24 offensive snaps. The Ravens should give him an expanded role against Washington on Sunday.

Mark Andrews

Andrews had a rough night against the Chiefs. He dropped some critical passes including a potential touchdown. He also had a fumble early in the game. Andrews is still one of the best tight ends in the league. He could have a big bounce-back performance against Washington, who allowed Dallas Goedert to register eight receptions for 101 yards and a touchdown.

Jimmy Smith

Logan Thomas is Washington’s second most targeted receiver behind Terry McLaurin. Through three games, he has been targeted 24 times. Jimmy Smith will likely be tasked with defending Thomas for the majority of the game. Limiting Thomas will leave McLaurin as the only reliable target for quarterback Dwayne Haskins.

Marlon Humphrey

McLaurin is easily Washington’s best offensive weapon. He already has 269 receiving yards this season. However, he will have to face his toughest test this season in cornerback Marlon Humphrey. Containing McLaurin will be key in this game, and Humphrey is definitely up to the task. I also would not be surprised to see Humphrey come up with an interception. Haskins threw three interceptions against the Browns last Sunday.