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Winners of their last three games, the Ravens will look to extend that number to four this week against the Giants to keep their playoff hopes alive. Here are five keys for Baltimore to improve to 10-5 on Sunday.
1) Send the blitz
QB Daniel Jones is expected to play against the Ravens on Sunday after missing some time in the past month. It’s no secret that Jones has a turnover problem, and that is something that Baltimore’s defense needs to take full advantage of. New York’s offense has struggled heavily in pass protection, specifically against blitzes this season, and the Ravens have blitzed more than any team in the NFL this season.
2) Have a plan for Evan Engram
With WR Golden Tate out for Sunday’s game, TE Evan Engram will most likely be the main target through the air for New York’s offense. Baltimore has struggled at times in covering the middle of the field this season, largely due to inexperience at the ILB position, so they must have a plan in order to keep Engram from taking over the game.
3) Stick to the run
The Ravens have revived their 2019 rushing attack in recent weeks. The Giants have allowed the fifth-least rushing yards in the league so far this season, however, so something will have to give on Sunday. Even if the rushing attack isn’t humming early on, Baltimore must stick to what they do best if the game gets tight.
4) Attack Andrew Thomas
Andrew Thomas was drafted with the fourth pick in the draft and was the first OT selected. While he has certainly played better as the year progressed, Thomas has struggled heavily at times this season, making him a prime candidate to attack with the pass rush. OLB Yannick Ngakoue, fresh off a two-sack performance, will likely be matched up against Thomas often on Sunday.
5) Continue to hit plays through the air
The Ravens have improved drastically on offense in recent weeks, thanks to the play of QB Lamar Jackson mainly. Jackson has cut down on mistakes and has taken advantage of what defenses have given him in recent weeks, leading to an efficient passing attack with some big plays through the air sprinkled in. Hitting the necessary passes will keep drives alive and allow Baltimore to put New York away.