Lamar Jackson has been nearly unstoppable this season, especially when it comes to efficiency in crucial moments. He’s currently ranked first in QBR when making plays outside the pocket, with seven touchdowns and zero interceptions. This level of play contrasts sharply with the Bengals’ struggling defense, which ranks 30th in QBR and has allowed five touchdowns. Including two to Lamar Jackson in Week 5. With such a potent passing threat. It might seem obvious to discuss Lamar’s passing attack. But Mina Kimes points out that the Ravens’ running game deserves just as much attention. Especially with the evolution of their run game this season.
One of the unique ways Baltimore has improved their ground game is by running more plays from under center, Which complements Derrick Henry’s preferred style. This shift has proven fruitful, as the Ravens now average a league-leading 5.6 yards per carry from this alignment. Cincinnati’s defense has also struggled to contain runs from under center, ranking last in several key metrics. So this aspect of Baltimore’s offense could be crucial in tonight’s game. Combining an effective ground game with Lamar’s passing ability. And play-action could give Baltimore an edge, forcing the Bengals’ defense to make tough decisions on how to handle these layered threats.
Dan Orlovsky offers a perspective on Cincinnati’s defensive options, suggesting that the Bengals need to either find a way to blitz. And disrupt Lamar’s play-action protection or focus on tightly covering the Ravens’ passing concepts. Baltimore’s use of multiple tight-end sets, often with Ricard as an offensive lineman or fullback, adds another layer of complexity. Dan emphasizes that Cincinnati will need to commit to either blitzing to collapse the pocket or focusing on downfield coverage, as trying to split their efforts could leave them vulnerable.
Ryan Clark and Marcus Spears weigh in with similar sentiments, recognizing that Cincinnati’s defense faces a difficult choice. When dealing with Lamar’s multidimensional play style. Ryan notes that one of the most dangerous aspects of Lamar’s game. This season is his improved handling of blitzes, which complicates Cincinnati’s defensive game plan. It’s a “pick your poison” situation: you either try to pressure Lamar and hope it disrupts his rhythm. Or you focus on containing his passing game and pray it’s enough to survive four quarters.
In addition to Lamar’s formidable presence, the Bengals will also need to keep up offensively. Without key receiver Tee Higgins, Joe Burrow must rely heavily on Jamar Chase, who will need a big night to give Cincinnati a chance. Dan notes that Burrow should look to attack Baltimore’s secondary, particularly targeting left cornerback Brandon Stephens. If Cincinnati can exploit that matchup and set up big plays, it could help balance out Lamar’s dynamic offense.
The Ravens’ defense also needs to step up, given that they’ve fallen to 25th or worse in several defensive metrics compared to their stellar performance last season. Their pass rush needs to generate more pressure. Especially from the interior, as key players like Travis Jones return to full health. The Ravens’ defensive communication and coverage assignments will also be tested against Cincinnati’s quick-strike offensive approach. Which aims to expose Baltimore’s vulnerabilities in coverage.
Tonight’s matchup promises to be an intense battle of quarterback prowess. And defensive strategy, with both teams facing challenges and adjustments. For Baltimore, continuing their balanced offensive attack could prove essential. While Cincinnati will need a strategic defensive approach. And a consistent offensive performance to keep up with Lamar and the Ravens.
