NFL Predictions: Panthers vs. Ravens and Steve Smith’s Game

It’s time to throw out some NFL predictions as the Panthers vs. Ravens game headlines one of the best early-Sunday matchups on the schedule. Steve Smith is ready to have “blood and guts flying everywhere”, but the Carolina Panthers seem prepared to stop him and the Baltimore Ravens offense.

Here are a few predictions for the quarterbacks, running backs, and of course, Smith.

Cam Newton: 22-37, 281 yards, 2 TD

I think Newton has a nice day, but will struggle with accuracy. It’s becoming clear that his ankle is giving him issues. The Ravens defense should play tight on Sunday, but they’ll give up some big plays to Greg Olsen, who I expect will have a nice 2 TD game.

Joe Flacco: 19-31, 301 yards, 3 TD

It’s time for Flacco to have a big game. At home, he should be able to control things the way he wants to. Having Smith available to him won’t hurt his stat line, but watch for tight end Owen Daniels to play a big role in this one. He’s expected to fill the void of Dennis Pitta, who is out for the season with a hip injury.

Ravens running game: under 100 yards, 2 TD

I think this one ends up being fairly high-scoring. The Ravens have struggled in the red-zone lately, but I think this is the game they get it going. Look for Lorenzo Taliaferro to get a few touches that put Baltimore over the edge.

Panthers running game: under 100 yards, TD

I think DeAngelo Williams will probably get a goal-line touchdown, but I can’t see this (often non-existent) running game getting much against a revamped Ravens front-7 that includes C.J Mosley and a healthy Haloti Ngata. Look for a rather pedestrian day from Carolina’s running game.

Steve Smith: 3 catches, 49 yards

The Panthers want to win this one too, you know. They’re going to be covering Smith more than any receiver they’ve covered all season. This is time for the rest of the Ravens depth chart to shine.

FINAL SCORE: Ravens win, 35-24

I think the Ravens take this home game and run away late in the 4th quarter. Sleeper of the game – WR Marlon Brown.