Baltimore Beatdown - Ravens vs. Titans: Everything to know for NFL Week 6A Baltimore Ravens Communityhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47159/baltimorebeatdown_fave.png2018-10-16T11:00:02-04:00http://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/rss/stream/177232872018-10-16T11:00:02-04:002018-10-16T11:00:02-04:00Ravens MVP of the week: Don “Wink” Martindale
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<img alt="NFL: Baltimore Ravens at Tennessee Titans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JMELTFAG9Lsp7SRTBM18rZUvG6A=/0x0:2415x1610/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61787385/usa_today_11445026.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="e25kSM">After an absolutely dominating 21-0 win over the Tennesee <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a>, it’s hard to pinpoint one player as the most valuable for the <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a>. Usually, I refrain from choosing coaches, after all, it is called most valuable “player” for a reason. After such an excellent display from Don “Wink” Martindale’s defense for Baltimore on Sunday, however, it’s impossible to give the honor to anyone else.</p>
<p id="kzg3IU">The Ravens broke a franchise record against Tennessee by sacking quarterback <span>Marcus Mariota</span> a whopping 11 times. Za’Darius Smith led the team with three sacks. <span>Patrick Onwuasor</span> was next up with two, while Matthew Judon, <span>Terrell Suggs</span>, <span>Tony Jefferson</span>, <span>Kenny Young</span>, <span>Anthony Levine Sr.</span> and <span>Chris Wormley</span> all had one a piece.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK.<br>SACK. <a href="https://t.co/b6R9Q09OVH">pic.twitter.com/b6R9Q09OVH</a></p>— RavenSSSSSSSSSSS (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1051938656015900672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2018</a>
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<p id="nFG0of">The Titans finished with only 106 total yards for the game, an outstanding feat for a defense in today’s offensive favored league. <span>Mariota</span> had less completions (10) than the Ravens had sacks. Tennessee was a dismal 1-for-10 on third down conversions. All nine drives resulted in punts for the Titans offense. </p>
<p id="K7kXI0">Baltimore dominated the time of possession as well. Tennessee’s offense was on the field for only 22:26 compared to the Ravens 37:34. The Titans were forced to abandon the run game early, rushing for only 55 yards on 14 attempts.</p>
<p id="Rwu1D7">Martindale put on a clinic on Sunday. Mariota had a tremendously difficult time finding open targets and reading Baltimore’s disguised coverages. What the Ravens seemed to be doing pre-snap was almost never the case, with players dropping into coverage or blitzing at the last second. It was a tremendous showing in front of now Titans and former Ravens defensive coordinator Dean Pees, who many fans blamed for Baltimore’s fourth quarter defensive collapses prior to this year. </p>
<p id="4feD48">The Ravens defense now ranks first in total yards per game (270.8), second in passing yards (188) just behind the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> (187.8) and third in rushing yards allowed (82.8). They also lead the NFL in sacks with 26. The most impressive stat, however, is that Baltimore has yet to allow a second-half touchdown through six weeks. In fact, the Ravens have only surrendered a total of 12 points in the second-half this season.</p>
<p id="SgmYhX">Martindale has certainly started the 2018 season on a fantastic note. It’s clear that the players love playing for him as well. As long as Baltimore continues this level of defensive dominance, they should be considered one of the scariest teams in the entire league. </p>
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https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/16/17980428/ravens-mvp-of-the-week-don-wink-martindale-zadarius-smith-terrell-suggs-marcus-mariota-kenny-youngDustin Cox2018-10-15T15:57:45-04:002018-10-15T15:57:45-04:00PFF: Michael Crabtree bounces back and Za’Darius Smith leads the defense
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<img alt="Baltimore Ravens v Tennessee Titans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/RA748qnUHy1v4tpA7X6uEnladv8=/0x602:1912x1877/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61779701/1052150208.jpg.0.jpg" />
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<p>What a response after a bad loss last week</p> <p id="w7hzgZ">Nothing better than Monday morning following a dominant <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a>’ victory. Strutting around campus or work with your purple gear and permanent smirk is far better than random NFL fans mocking you when they aren’t even <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a> or <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> fans. . .</p>
<p id="5wOsHm"><em><strong>OFFENSE</strong></em></p>
<blockquote><p id="tKbsou">WR <span>Michael Crabtree</span> was the Ravens top performer on offense against the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a>, grading at 87.8. He recorded a WR rating of 137.7 and did most of his damage across CB <span>Malcolm Butler</span>, catching four-of-seven targets for 68 yards and one TD when covered by the former <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> MVP.</p></blockquote>
<p id="h9LW6V">Catching passes from a Super Bowl MVP and burning a Super Bowl MVP in the same game. Beautiful stuff.</p>
<p id="OMzWi0">Also, it’s great to see Crab come back and fix the mistakes. He owned the loss last week and busted his tail to get back on track. Great work.</p>
<blockquote><p id="TC3Bwc">QB <span>Joe Flacco</span> was pressured on only 17.9% of dropbacks but struggled mightily on those plays, completing two-of-seven passes for 28 yards and an interception.</p></blockquote>
<p id="CFS88A">Joe’s usually level-headed but the interior line collapsing from <span>Jurrell Casey</span> definitely rattled him. Hopefully he can stay sharp in future exhibitions.</p>
<p id="81LtQx"><em><strong>DEFENSE</strong></em></p>
<blockquote><p id="8VilaC">Eight different Ravens defenders recorded a sack, with Za’Darius <span>Smith</span> leading the way with three. He currently ranks fourth in Pass Rushing Productivity among all edge defenders so far this season.</p></blockquote>
<p id="HCpuQJ">Still in awe of the defensive performance yesterday. Led by Don Martindale, he dethroned the Titans from Mt. Olympus, dialing up unique schemes and sets as the pass rush produced eleven sacks. </p>
<p id="ii72rY">It’s becoming clear the Ravens need to keep Za’Darius. He’s coming along as a pass rusher and they need to keep somebody for when Sizzle finally fizzles.</p>
<blockquote><p id="5HsebZ">Only one Raven defensive back gave up more than 18 yards into their coverage - <span>Jimmy Smith</span> (two-of-two for 40 yards).</p></blockquote>
<p id="0uwe4b">It’s laughable that a bad day in the office for Jimmy is 40 yards on two catches. It’s also bewildering to think this was the worst performance on defense in the game. No matter, they’ll take it.</p>
https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/15/17980122/pff-michael-crabtree-bounces-back-and-zadarius-smith-leads-the-defense-ravens-titans-highlightsKyle Phoenix2018-10-14T20:10:56-04:002018-10-14T20:10:56-04:00UPDATE: Ravens offensive lineman Alex Lewis released from hospital after suffering scary neck injury
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<img alt="NFL: Baltimore Ravens at Tennessee Titans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/oxz-DBCr5nV5NkX-3e-s0DPkMF4=/0x144:3898x2743/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61768783/usa_today_11445025.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Ravens starting guard was carted off the field in the second half of Sunday’s game </p> <p id="J9iBSM"><span>Alex Lewis</span>, the <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a> starting left guard, was carted off the field in a stretcher against the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a>. Just a minute into the fourth quarter, <span>Lewis</span> went down after making contact with a Tennessee defender. </p>
<p id="vyhkS1"><span>Lewis</span> was immediately treated by medical personnel and remained down on the field for several minutes. His head and neck were immobilized and he was eventually placed on a stretcher. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Alex Lewis is being taken to a local hospital for further evaluation of a neck injury. He has movement in all of his extremities.</p>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1051607321112182784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2018</a>
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<p id="M6jHUB">Lewis was taken to Vanderbilt hospital after being carted off the field and is being further evaluated. The exact severity of his injury is unknown, but the early signs do not appear good. Neck injuries can often be serious and have long-lasting effects. </p>
<p id="rcoM3p">It’s an unfortunate and scary moment for Lewis, who has struggled to stay healthy throughout his three-year career. Last season, Lewis missed all sixteen games with a torn labrum injury. </p>
<p id="4BZLbx">In his absence, rookie lineman <span>Bradley Bozeman</span> finished the game in his place. Assuming Lewis is forced to miss an extended period of time, Bozeman could enter the starting lineup. </p>
<p id="AydSgr">The Ravens could also move <span>James Hurst</span> to guard and play third-round pick <span>Orlando Brown Jr.</span> at right tackle. While exiting the field, Lewis appeared to signal to his teammates that he was okay. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Lewis appeared to lift his hand to acknowledge some of his teammates as he was carted off immobilized.</p>— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiec/status/1051605990662131713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2018</a>
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<p id="cHJh7d">Lewis, 26, was the Ravens fourth-round pick in 2016. He was just starting to hit his stride, and hopefully he can make a quick and speedy recovery.</p>
<p id="BfDEs8">Head coach John Harbaugh did state in the post-game press conference that he has feeling in all of his extremities and has movement. They’re waiting for a CT scan and the team will release any information ‘right away’ when they receive the information.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Coach Harbaugh provides an update on Alex Lewis: <a href="https://t.co/gOJ1lAeqeL">pic.twitter.com/gOJ1lAeqeL</a></p>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1051618753337675776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2018</a>
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<p id="gHON3s">UPDATE: 8:08 p.m. ET</p>
<p id="7vtDHC">Ravens have announced Lewis has been released from the hospital and will travel back home with the team tonight and undergo more tests tomorrow.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Alex Lewis underwent a CT scan at the hospital and is now being released. He will travel back to Baltimore with the team tonight and undergo more tests tomorrow in Baltimore.</p>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1051624644736950273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2018</a>
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https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/14/17976564/alex-lewis-suffers-scary-injury-neck-ravens-hospitalFrank Platko2018-10-14T19:29:51-04:002018-10-14T19:29:51-04:00Ravens vs Titans final recap: Defense shatters franchise sack record in shutout win
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<img alt="Baltimore Ravens v Tennessee Titans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3MiN0Fv-0wI3UR3nCgR3fWFzmyI=/0x526:3153x2628/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61768573/1052147206.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Ravens dominated their opponent for all 60 minutes.</p> <p id="n66S8C">With Week 6 of the NFL season underway, the 3-2 <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Baltimore Ravens</a> traveled to Nashville to face the 3-2 <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Tennessee Titans</a>. </p>
<p id="dWnl0D">Baltimore won the toss and elected to kick. The defense started strong for the Ravens, forcing a punt after consecutive sacks from <span>Chris Wormley</span> and Za’Darius Smith.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Starting off with a SACK. <a href="https://t.co/yNLVy6KlRJ">pic.twitter.com/yNLVy6KlRJ</a></p>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1051571396122308608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2018</a>
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<p id="AONwn3">The offense responded with a 21-yard pass from <span>Joe Flacco</span> to Michael Crabtree. Flacco was able to convert several third downs on the drive, twice on a checkdown to Javorius “Buck” Allen and once on a quarterback sneak. Flacco was able to find Crabtree again for a 27-yard gain to put Baltimore in the red zone. A few plays later, Flacco delivered a four-yard strike to Crabtree for the touchdown.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">King. Crab. Alert.<a href="https://twitter.com/KingCrab15?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KingCrab15</a> <a href="https://t.co/mKvGiCGOEB">pic.twitter.com/mKvGiCGOEB</a></p>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1051575566124511232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2018</a>
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<p id="lOR7ka">After a three-and-out from Tennessee’s offense, the first quarter came to a close with the Ravens leading 7-0. The offense was again able to find the end zone on their second drive to start the second quarter. After a 23-yard completion to <span>John Brown</span>, running back <span>Alex Collins</span> ran his way in for a 13-yard touchdown to give Baltimore a 14 point lead.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/Budda03?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Budda03</a> got that bag. <a href="https://t.co/jaUl1vsDER">pic.twitter.com/jaUl1vsDER</a></p>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1051580962067206144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2018</a>
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<p id="N8dBFU">The Ravens were able to sack <span>Marcus Mariota</span> two more times on the next drive, once on first down from <span>Patrick Onwuasor</span> and then on third down by Za’Darius Smith again. After Baltimore’s first punt on offense, the Ravens defense got to <span>Mariota</span> yet again, this time in the form of Terrell Suggs. Including a credited sack to <span>Anthony Levine Sr.</span> when he forced Mariota out of bounds on the second drive, Baltimore tallied six sacks in the first half.</p>
<h4 id="7vhZBv">Second half:</h4>
<p id="0ARDdd">The Ravens first drive went as most of them have this season, ending with a score. A long drive by the Ravens offense finished with a two-yard rushing touchdown by Collins after a 22-yard rush by <span>Lamar Jackson</span> only a play ago.</p>
<p id="4SCKJ5">After the Ravens scored a touchdown, the defense took the field and welcomed Mariota with another sack, this time by Tony Jefferson. The drive goes nowhere.</p>
<p id="vkYvat">After a stalled drive by Flacco and the offense, <span>Sam Koch</span> booms one deep. Moore and <span>Cyrus Jones</span> both get a hand on the ball before pinning it down at the one-yard line.</p>
<p id="0w0XJQ">The ball didn’t stay in a dangerous zone for long as Mariota sprinted out of the his own endzone and broke of a 20-yard rush. He also completed a long pass to get them at the Titans 45-yard line. In the end, the drive was haulted by <span>Kenny Young</span> as he prouced the eighth sack of the game on Mariota.</p>
<p id="9NakZL">A few back and forth drives later, <span>Alex Lewis</span> suffered what looked like a serious injury after making a block on a run attempt. His helmet was taped to the backboard, he was lifted off and taken away in an ambulance. We all hope he’s okay.</p>
<p id="JGgctw">On yet another defensive drive, <span>Matt Judon</span> racked up sack number nine.</p>
<p id="71b86D"><span>Gus Edwards</span> was the most exciting part of the offense in the fourth quarter. On a 3rd & 2, Edwards rushed off the left side for a powerful 11-yard gain. What followed were two penalties back-to-back and eventually a punt after an eight-yard gain to Snead IV on 3rd & 25.</p>
<p id="JQYhMW">Clearly, the defense wasn’t done as they broke the franchise record for most sacks in a game with 11. The previous record, nine, was shattered with Peanut’s second sack of the game and Za’Darius Smith’s third for the final tally on defense (11 total).</p>
<p id="oSAK66">The Ravens finished by winning 21-0 and pitching their first shutout of the season.</p>
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https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/14/17975914/ravens-vs-titans-final-recap-defense-shatters-franchise-sack-record-in-shutout-win-11-sacksDustin CoxKyle Phoenix2018-10-14T16:00:01-04:002018-10-14T16:00:01-04:00Ravens vs. Titans: Open Thread
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<img alt="Baltimore Ravens v Tennessee Titans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5JC-WJbMq3EwCvWUCxfpv906VOA=/298x199:3160x2107/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61766351/870646696.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p id="bNoPwU">Less than a year ago, the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Tennessee Titans</a> won a close contest against the <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Baltimore Ravens</a>, 23-20. These have always been big AFC matchups with fairly close games. The last three have featured a result within two scores of each other.</p>
<aside id="DANwRG"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Baltimore Ravens vs. Tennessee Titans: Revisiting recent matchups","url":"https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/12/17964962/baltimore-ravens-vs-tennessee-titans-revisiting-recent-matchups-marcus-mariota-joe-flacco-balvsten"}]}'></div></aside><p id="VZXgjg">Now, the Ravens are ready to take on their opponent and get back on track after an ugly loss against the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> only a week ago.</p>
<p id="oj8RWY">This is an important game for both teams. They’re both contesting for their respective AFC divisions, but if not, they’re battling for a Wild Card spot in the playoffs and both are sitting at 3-2 with tiebreaker implications if it comes down to the wire.</p>
<p id="ZBVZDw">As mentioned, the Ravens are coming off an ugly 12-9 loss. They couldn’t finish drives all afternoon and aired the ball out 56 times.</p>
<aside id="SygbUg"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Film Review: What went wrong offensively against the Browns in Week 5","url":"https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/11/17959262/film-review-what-went-wrong-offensively-against-the-browns-in-week-5-joe-flacco-lamar-jackson-nfl"}]}'></div></aside><p id="rdGDGV">Meanwhile, the Titans lost a bad game against the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> 13-12 from a 46-yard game-winning field goal by Stephen Hauschka. Mariota only completed 129 yards of passing and their leading rusher was <span>Derrick Henry</span> with 56 yards. Both are ready to right the ship, but only one can come out on top.</p>
<aside id="PNHqoF"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Ravens vs. Titans: Everything to know for NFL Week 6","url":"https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/12/17959246/baltimore-ravens-vs-tennessee-titans-game-preview-predictions-analysis-week-6-ravens-recap"}]}'></div></aside><h3 id="SyHafW"><strong>Social Media</strong></h3>
<p id="hmB6E4">As always, I do ask for you to please follow and ‘like’ us on various social media outlets.</p>
<ul>
<li id="iNK4IZ">Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/BMoreBeatdown"><strong>@BMoreBeatdown</strong></a>
</li>
<li id="99qtlN">Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/baltimorebeatdown/"><strong>Baltimore Beatdown: For Baltimore Ravens fans</strong></a>
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<li id="nP88re">Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/baltimore_beatdown/"><strong>baltimore_beatdown</strong></a>
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<h3 id="aqNtdB"><strong>GO RAVENS!</strong></h3>
https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/14/17975566/ravens-vs-titans-open-thread-nfl-week-6-bal-vs-ten-joe-flacco-marcus-mariota-matchupKyle Phoenix2018-10-14T15:39:37-04:002018-10-14T15:39:37-04:00Ravens vs. Titans: Both teams’ inactive’s lists featuring missing defenders
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<p id="hAUiX4">The <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a> have announced their inactive’s list and it includes a unique healthy scratch.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today's inactives vs. Titans. <a href="https://t.co/X6smGHjBXP">pic.twitter.com/X6smGHjBXP</a></p>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1051549070244945922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2018</a>
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<h4 id="ERugaH">Ravens inactive’s:</h4>
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<li id="qntXuJ">QB <span>Robert Griffin III</span>
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<li id="H3EimB">WR <span>Jordan Lasley</span>
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<li id="WLy33m">CB <span>Anthony Averett</span>
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<li id="12EXKP">DL <span>Patrick Ricard</span>
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<li id="IbPwKW">LB <span>Tyus Bowser</span>
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<li id="3Iq24Q">C <span>Hroniss Grasu</span>
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<li id="Ms2dB3">DL <span>Zach Sieler</span>
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<p id="Irc8qt">The most interesting names are Bowser, Sieler and Ricard. The dual-threat nature of <span>Patrick Ricard</span> almost always keeps him on the field. He produces both as a blocker on offense and a defender in the trenches on defense. He’s also played fairly well this season. Maybe the Ravens are confident in their offensive scheme against the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> this afternoon?</p>
<p id="zpGXXx">Also, if Ricard is out I’d figured they’d get the seventh-round rookie reps along the interior defensive line. Apparently not today.</p>
<p id="WEMpu1">It’s disappointing to see Tyus Bowser on the list as a healthy scratch as he wasn’t listed on the Friday injury report. In fact, <span>Tim Williams</span> was the sophomore pass rusher reported with a hamstring injury on Friday, though he was only questionable to play with a hamstring issue.</p>
<p id="vJvf7D">Many were hoping to see Lasley receive some reps after the <span>Michael Crabtree</span>’s drop-fest in Week 5 game against the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a>. Hard to steal reps from the player labeled WR1.</p>
<p id="DJmvRq">On the other end, the Titans also announced their inactive’s list.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Inactives for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ravens?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ravens</a> vs. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Titans?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Titans</a> today. Wesley Woodyard is definitely a name of note here. <a href="https://t.co/I9X3w6IYnx">pic.twitter.com/I9X3w6IYnx</a></p>— Crissy Froyd (@crissy_froyd) <a href="https://twitter.com/crissy_froyd/status/1051553560608067589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2018</a>
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<h4 id="UUjTWJ">Titans inactive’s:</h4>
<ul>
<li id="fq62pG">CB <span>Kenneth Durden</span>
</li>
<li id="tVUUNO">S <span>Kenny Vaccaro</span>
</li>
<li id="Jua6ha">LB <span>Will Compton</span>
</li>
<li id="xtCByg">LB <span>Wesley Woodyard</span>
</li>
<li id="1nVzSF">OG <span>Aaron Stinnie</span>
</li>
<li id="5WqeoX">OT <span>Tyler Marz</span>
</li>
<li id="anKzje">DL <span>Bennie Logan</span>
</li>
</ul>
<p id="fc4aWJ">Without a doubt, the biggest names are Vaccaro and Woodyard. The safety dislocated his elbow on October 1, and is likely missing up to four weeks recovering. Woodyard was questionable with a shoulder injury, even participating in the Titans’ practices in a limited fashion, but apparently couldn’t quite get there this week against the Ravens.</p>
https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/14/17975766/ravens-vs-titans-both-teams-inactives-lists-featuring-missing-defenders-pat-ricard-wesley-woodyardKyle Phoenix2018-10-14T09:15:40-04:002018-10-14T09:15:40-04:00Bold Predictions: Ravens vs Titans
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<img alt="NFL: Baltimore Ravens at Tennessee Titans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kk61sAHDfgYD-OPOELPZ8byVItc=/0x0:3720x2480/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61764519/usa_today_10394095.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="qMnVtB">The <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a> are in rebound mode for their Week 6 matchup with the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Tennessee Titans</a>. A win in hand could be critical as Baltimore faces the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/">Saints</a>, the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> and the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> in the upcoming weeks. Below, Baltimore Beatdown contributors outline their bold predictions for the contest.</p>
<h3 id="e7Wv4D">Sage’s predictions:</h3>
<ul><li id="Zcx6Bv">
<span>Michael Crabtree</span> will reach the end zone.</li></ul>
<p id="34HxWg"><em>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 </em><span><em>Joe Flacco</em></span><em>’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.</em></p>
<ul><li id="IAPKYd">Baltimore will continue to struggle on special teams.</li></ul>
<p id="8xVLht"><em>The kick returner spot has plagued the Ravens through the first five weeks. </em><span><em>Janarion Grant</em></span><em> and </em><span><em>Tim White</em></span><em> both failed to perform and were sent to the practice squad, and John Harbaugh is now even </em><a href="https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/news-notes-10-10-john-brown-will-get-a-look-at-returner"><em>considering</em></a><em> receiver </em><span><em>John Brown</em></span><em> 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. </em></p>
<h3 id="XhTGYJ">Vasilis’ predictions:</h3>
<ul><li id="SNJID4">
<span>Hayden Hurst</span> will lead the Ravens in receiving yards.</li></ul>
<p id="tcUxSH"><em>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.</em></p>
<ul><li id="39iZ1L">Baltimore’s cornerbacks will hold <span>Corey Davis</span> without a catch.</li></ul>
<p id="qR751b"><em>Davis broke out with nine catches for 161 yards and a touchdown in Week 4 against the </em><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/"><em>Eagles</em></a><em>. However, he managed only two grabs against Jacksonville and four against Buffalo. Jimmy Smith, </em><span><em>Marlon Humphrey</em></span><em> and </em><span><em>Brandon Carr</em></span><em> will shut down Corey today.</em></p>
<h3 id="lLpVd4">Dustin’s predictions:</h3>
<ul><li id="Vvr2Jv">
<span>Marcus Mariota</span> will throw for less than 100 yards.</li></ul>
<p id="tkcgPU"><em>Titans quarterback </em><span><em>Marcus Mariota</em></span><em> 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 </em><a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/"><em>Jaguars</em></a><em> 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.</em></p>
<ul><li id="Qx9eVv">
<span>Alex Collins</span> will rush for over 100 yards for the first time this season.</li></ul>
<p id="ZjZCIz"><em>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.</em></p>
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https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/14/17959334/bold-predictions-ravens-vs-titans-week-6-john-brown-hayden-hurst-alex-collins-marcus-mariotaSage MoranderVasilis LericosDustin Cox2018-10-14T08:50:13-04:002018-10-14T08:50:13-04:00AFC North Preview: Week 6
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<img alt="NFL: Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/295hOkNhB_RG1USRT6s2fRtv2q4=/0x0:3600x2400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61764407/usa_today_11397258.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="IkrkqG">Week 6 of the NFL season brings the opportunity of a potential shakeup in the AFC North standings. Can Cincinnati stay hot and protect their lead in the division? Will Baltimore rebound from their ugly loss against Cleveland? Can the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a> stay motivated and continue their upward trend? Has Pittsburgh finally turned the corner for the season? </p>
<h4 id="8ka7EL">
<a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Cincinnati Bengals</a> (4-1)</h4>
<p id="dsv7mb">The Bengals currently lead the division at 4-1. Cincinnati hopes to extend their hot streak by holding off the 2-2-1 <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> today at home. </p>
<p id="NlnAJv">The Bengals 22nd ranked pass defense will have to slow down Pittsburgh’s fourth ranked passing attack. The Steelers offense seemed to finally click last week against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> in a 41-17 victory. Cincinnati will have to find a way to contain wide receivers <span>Antonio Brown</span> and JuJu Smith-Schuster as well as tight ends <span>Vance McDonald</span> and Jesse James. Pressuring quarterback <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span> and forcing him into mistakes is key for stalling Pittsburgh’s potent offense.</p>
<p id="71FlEG">Meanwhile, the Bengals will also have to watch for Steelers linebacker <span>T.J. Watt</span>. Watt has a league-high six sacks through just five games this season. Cincinnati’s receivers have the advantage over Pittsburgh’s 29th ranked passing defense. Quarterback Andy Dalton’s strong performances this season should continue this week. </p>
<p id="oGPRsy">The Bengals would improve to 5-1 with a win, further distancing themselves in the race to win the AFC North. </p>
<h4 id="DTAmp7">Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2-1)</h4>
<p id="Kl5Txd">After a bounce back win against the Falcons, the Steelers must now travel to Cincinnati to face the division leading 4-1 Bengals in a game with huge implications. </p>
<p id="Hzo7fV">Pittsburgh’s offense came alive against Atlanta with Roethlisberger throwing for 250 yards and three touchdowns. The offense will look to continue rolling in Week 5; however, it will be against a much tougher Cincinnati defense this time. Bengals defensive tackle <span>Geno Atkins</span> is tied for the league’s most sacks with six while defensive end <span>Carlos Dunlap</span> has four. Cincinnati boasts a slew of dangerous pass rushers behind those two as well. The Steelers offensive line will have to prevent the Bengals front seven from taking over the game.</p>
<p id="Oeeke6">The real challenge for Pittsburgh will be stopping Cincinnati’s dangerous receivers. <span>A.J. Green</span>, <span>Tyler Boyd</span> and <span>John Ross</span> all present problems for the Steelers struggling secondary. Running back <span>Joe Mixon</span> has emerged as a threat as well, both on the ground and in the passing game. Double teaming <span>Green</span> should be the top priority for Pittsburgh. </p>
<p id="QyQF3r">A win over the Bengals would put the Steelers at 3-2-1 and only one game behind Cincinnati in the division.</p>
<h4 id="xw945o">Cleveland Browns (2-2-1)</h4>
<p id="mJ1niF">After an upset win over the Ravens last week, Cleveland now hosts the 3-2 <a href="https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/">Los Angeles Chargers</a>. </p>
<p id="JZji4d">The Browns defense is playing at a high level, leading the NFL in takeaways with 15. Cleveland’s defense held Baltimore’s offense to three field goals in a 12-9 overtime win. Rookie cornerback <span>Denzel Ward</span> is performing exceptionally well with three interceptions through five games. Defensive end <span>Myles Garrett</span> leads the front seven with an impressive five sacks. The unit must continue to play well against the Chargers seventh ranked offense. </p>
<p id="U3ZtFI">The Browns inexperience at offense tackle could present a huge problem against defensive end Melvin Ingram. Luckily for Cleveland, star pass rusher <span>Joey Bosa</span> is still out with a foot injury. The Browns must establish the run game early to keep the Los Angeles pass rush at bay. Running back’s <span>Carlos Hyde</span> and <span>Nick Chubb</span> could see a heavy workload today.</p>
<p id="MSEeTR">The Browns would improve to 3-2-1 with a win over the Chargers, which would put them right in the discussion of winning the AFC North. The last time Cleveland had three wins in a season was in 2015.</p>
<h4 id="TaaJxw">
<a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Baltimore Ravens</a> (3-2)</h4>
<p id="XxY8DV">After a disappointing and ugly 12-9 loss to the Browns in Week 5, Baltimore now stays on the road, traveling to Tennessee to face the 3-2 <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a>.</p>
<p id="hAKvws">The story line of the game has been the Ravens facing former defensive coordinator Dean Pees, who has helped lead Tennessee’s defense to the seventh overall ranking in the NFL. Baltimore is coming off of a horrible game offensively and will look to find some rhythm again on Sunday. The Titans have an impressive front seven, led by defensive tackle Jurrell Casey. The Ravens will have to successfully run the ball with <span>Alex Collins</span> to help open up the deep ball for wide receiver John Brown. Tight ends <span>Hayden Hurst</span> and <span>Mark Andrews</span> could play a big role in the passing game as well against Tennessee’s linebackers. </p>
<p id="FaoYBu">On defense, Baltimore must stop the run and force quarterback <span>Marcus Mariota</span> to beat them through the air. <span>Mariota</span> has had an up-and-down season so far, only throwing for 676 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions. Still, Mariota is a dangerous runner, both at picking up yards and extending plays. The Ravens will have to find a way to keep Mariota inside the pocket this afternoon if they want to force him into mistakes. </p>
<p id="dOPRil">Baltimore would improve to 4-2 with a win this week. The division is still within their grasp and a win on Sunday would go a long way towards winning it. </p>
https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2018/10/14/17965504/afc-north-preview-week-6-baltimore-ravens-cleveland-browns-cincinnati-bengals-pittsburgh-steelersDustin Cox