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NFL Predictions: Week 4 Picks and Hot Takes

By Joe Wedra

Nov 22, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) and Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (25) before facing the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) and Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (25) before facing the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack (52) stands on the field before the start of the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack (52) stands on the field before the start of the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

Oakland Raiders at Baltimore Ravens, 1:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, CBS

You are what your record says you are in the NFL, regardless of style points. The Ravens haven’t looked brilliant through their first three, but they’ve captured a trio of victories early to set up a massive AFC matchup this Sunday at home. Joe Flacco finally has Dennis Pitta healthy, and it’s been paying off in a big way. The duo is lethal when they’re given the opportunity by the offensive line. Consistency is key for the Ravens, but with the recent dominance on the defensive side, the season appears to be heading in the right direction.

Oakland’s cross-country performance in this one could prove to be massive down the stretch in the AFC Wild Card race. Both teams look to be on their way to contending in November and December and holding this tie-breaker will be no joke. The strategy in the Oakland camp should be clear-cut: attack the Ravens secondary that has had major consistency problems in the past. The Baltimore defensive backfield has been solid throughout the first three weeks, but the skilled-position matchup should favor Oakland when the Raiders offense hits the field. Look out for a steady dose of the deep ball early and often.

Raiders take advantage of big arm of Derek Carr, out-score Ravens, 33-28.

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