Baltimore Ravens vs. New York Jets, 1:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, CBS
The Ravens win if…
The defense creates turnovers against Geno Smith.
Whether it’ll be Ryan Mallett or Joe Flacco under center, this one should revolve around how effectively Dean Pees’ defense is able to create opportunities against Smith. You’d imagine that the Ravens have an optimistic mindset going in, knowing they won’t have to deal with a passing threat that Ryan Fitzpatrick, when firing on all cylinders, can pose. Smith’s abilities are known – if the Baltimore defense continues to perform on par with what they’ve shown through the first six games, they should be a lock on Sunday.
The Jets win if…
They can effectively apply enough pressure to make Baltimore one-dimensional.
In the case of both Mallett and Flacco (or any other quarterback, for that matter), constant pressure will completely destroy the offense’s game plan. The Ravens don’t have too many game-breakers on that offense, and it’s very clear that the Jets have the capability to make the QB’s day a nightmare every week. If the NYJ front-seven steps up and gets their shots on Flacco/Mallett early and often, Baltimore’s rushing attack likely won’t be enough to fight back for a win.
Ravens win a tight game against Jets, 24-21.