Ravens vs Jaguars in London: 5 things to watch for
By Andrew Kim
Which team will be a potential division leader in the AFC after week 3?
The Baltimore Ravens (2-0) are coming off a dominating win against the Cleveland Browns (0-2) while the Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1) came apart against the Tennessee Titans (1-1).
Baltimore’s defense had five turnovers again for the second game in a row and the running back trio was still consistent with Joe Flacco playing better this week. The emergence of Ben Watson was a big factor against the Browns defense as he was Flacco’s main target with eight receptions.
The Jacksonville Jaguars could not replicate the same running game success they had in week one against the Houston Texans and struggled without Allen Robinson as Blake Bortles threw two interceptions and fumbled the ball once. Also with the Titans better offensive line, the Jaguars defensive line was not as productive as the previous week.
Injuries, however, could play a major role in this game as both teams are banged up heading into week 3.
Jaylen Hill, Terrance West, Maxx Williams, and Brandon Williams were key absences for the Ravens in practice prior to their flight to London on Thursday. Anthony Levine and Michael Campanaro returned to practice, while Chris Matthews was limited in practice. They are getting back Za’Darius Smith from a minor knee injury that kept him out in week two For the Jaguars, Jalen Ramsey, Lerentee McCray, and Jaelen Strong were not seen in practice in Jacksonville prior to their departure to London. Malik Jackson, Tashaun Gipson, Brandon Linder, and Cam Robinson were all limited as Blake Bortles and Allen Hurns practiced on Thursday.
Full #Ravens #Jaguars Injury Report, 9/20 pic.twitter.com/VnQuuqxBDD
— Baltimore Beatdown (@BmoreBeatdown) September 20, 2017
Most of these players will most likely play, but should someone miss time, players like Carl Davis and Javorius Allen will have to make their first starts. If Ramsey misses any time, Aaron Colvin will have to start on the outside next to A.J. Bouye. Here are some key matchups to look out for in London on Sunday morning.