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2016 NFL Season: Picking The Week One Winners

By Erik Lambert

Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) has his pass knocked down by Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl 50 at Levi
Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) has his pass knocked down by Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl 50 at Levi /
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Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) gets introduced prior to the game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) gets introduced prior to the game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

Buffalo Bills at Baltimore Ravens

The connections run deep between these two teams. Rex Ryan is a former Ravens defensive coordinator while Tyrod Taylor was once a backup to Joe Flacco. Now both are having some success with the Buffalo Bills and are anxious to show Baltimore what they can do. At the same time the Ravens are finally on the mend after an injury-riddled 2015. Hopes are high they can get back into the AFC North race, but a number of question marks on offense including how much the loss of guard Kelechi Osemele will impact things remain unanswered.

Notable Injuries:

Breshad Perriman (BAL) – The Ravens drafted the UCF wide receiver in hopes he could solve a lingering problem for them in the passing game. Yet his early career has been marred by knee injuries. The good news is he saw his first action in the preseason finale. Whether he can take that a step further against Buffalo is unknown at this point.

Shaq Lawson (BUF) – Fans were excited when the Bills drafted Clemson pass rusher Shaq Lawson to help fill the void left by Mario Williams. So it must’ve been a gut punch when they found out he required shoulder surgery and would be placed on the PUP list. Throw in the exit of Marcel Dareus due to suspension and it’s become a big question of where this defense will get its rush.

Key Matchup:

LeSean McCoy vs. C.J. Mosley

No doubt this game is going to be centered on running the football. Both teams want to do it and will give it an honest effort. With Karlos Williams gone, LeSean McCoy is the unquestioned feature back in Buffalo. They are sure to feed him plenty and it falls to Ravens Pro Bowl inside linebacker C.J. Mosley to lead the charge in stopping him. When McCoy has good days, the Bills do well.

Prediction:  Ravens win 16-13

Next: CHI @ HOU

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