Since the start of the season I’ve done a video fancast for each week and participated in several fan debates most notably defending the honor of Baltimore during week four against the Patriots. If you want to check them out or get in the game yourself just click the above link.

The Bengals are tied for the lead in the AFC North, but the Ravens are breathing down their necks. NFL.com analyst Pat Kirwan and Jason Horowitz preview the game, which you can watch this Sunday at 1:00 p.m. ET on CBS.

Week 9: Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals

Sunday November 8, 2009 1:05 PM

Line: Ravens -3.0

One step at a time. That’s the mantra being pumped out from the Castle front office. No game is more important than another, each team must be handled as they come, there is no such thing as a must win. A slow dull drum beat. The Ravens came out of the bye with a 3-3 record. They needed a win desperately, and despite what anyone in the organization might have stated, it wasn’t just another game. It was a flat out, no holds barred, must win. Lose and the Ravens’ chances of making the playoffs would be all but non existent. One step at a time. The Ravens came out guns blazing and stomped all over the previously undefeated Broncos. The Offense’s game plan was executed perfectly, and the Defense managed to regain its swagger.

This week the Ravens have the unenviable task of heading into Paul Brown Stadium to face off against their white hot division rivals, the Cincinnati Bengals. Three weeks ago, the Bengals embarrassed the Ravens at home with a last minute touchdown drive sparked by a series of absolutely sickening defensive penalties. This week Baltimore looks to exact its revenge. One step at a time. You’ve been hearing it all week. This is just another game, it’s a divisional opponent, we treat each contest the same. Don’t believe the hype. The Ravens MUST win this game. Failure to do so would make a mountain out of a molehill in their quest to win the division.

With that in mind let’s take a look at this week’s match up.

RavensGab.com Keys to the Game

Keep the Fire Going

Last week against the Denver Broncos the Ravens’ Defense regained its identity. Hard hits, solid coverage, great penetration all helped the unit put the game away even as the Offense was slow to get the ball rolling.

To beat the Bengals, the Ravens will have to step it up a notch and bring the same amount of punishing hits and quarterback pressure. In the first meeting, the Ravens had a lot of trouble getting to Carson Palmer, and it allowed him to exploit the secondary all day long. To win on Sunday they will have to find a way to play like they did against the Broncos and bring the pain.

Throw the Darn Ball

Although I think a big part of beating the Bengals this week will be ball control and the run game, the Bengals have the 28th ranked Pass Defense in the NFL. We all know what Joe Flacco can do with his arm when given the time, so why not let him air it out a bit and hit receivers like Kelley Washington, Todd Heap, and Mark Clayton. Although I don’t think Derrick Mason will struggle against the Bengals as he did in the first meeting, I still respect Leon Hall enough to know that Mason is going to be covered soundly for most of the game.

Possess the Ball

The Ravens really stepped it up in this department last week against the Broncos. The Offense came out with their modified no-huddle package and just wore the Broncos’ Defense down with solid runs and short yardage passes. It was the perfect scheme to beat Denver. With no Defense, the Broncos were forced to rely on Kyle Orton to make things happen. Orton’s not particularly well known for doing that which allowed Baltimore’s linebackers and safeties to have a field day.

Beating the Bengals starts here. Priority number one must be to keep Carson Palmer off the field. The Defense will have to do its job, but the Offense can help a great deal by keeping their hands on the ball for as many long sustained drives as possible.

Keep Chad OchoCinco, Andre Cladwell & Chris Henry In Front of You

The Ravens did an excellent job of keeping the Denver wide receivers in front of them all day. This allowed for better pressure attacks from the linebackers and allowed Ed Reed to flow like a missile all over the field.

The Ravens have consistently been cut up badly by the Bengals potent offense. To beat the talented wide receivers, Foxworth, Reed, Washington and Landry have got to keep their man in front of them where they can be bottled up and contained. Getting burned on the outside is how Cincinnati beat Baltimore so soundly in the last meeting.

Mix up the Running Attack

We all know that Ray Rice is a beast. He is the most solid all purpose weapon in the NFL. But just because he’s hot, and undeniably talented, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go to some of your other weapons. Le’Ron McClain is a human freight train. Use him to wear down the Cincy defense and provide a change of pace to speedy Rice. Willis McGahee is a combination of McClain and Rice and should be used to keep the Bengals Defense on their toes and guessing as to what’s coming next.

Getting stagnant will only allow good teams to beat you. Staying creative is the only way to win at the top levels of the NFL.

Contain Cedric Benson

For the Ravens’ Defense, this has to be their personal Alamo. Cedric Benson did what no other running back in almost five years did by cutting up the field for 100+ Yards. He made this Defense look foolish, and his ability to run roughshod allowed Carson Palmer to not only keep drives alive, but also hit his wide open receivers.

I will make this very clear. The Ravens absolutely cannot win this game if they fail to contain Cedric Benson.

Ravens Gab Predictions

Jonathon Scruggs

The Bengals are a tough, disciplined (did I just say that) squad with a whole host of ways to beat you, and beat you badly. The Ravens have a lot to prove and this week will be the ultimate test as to who this team is. Are they for real, or are they pretenders?

Given the absolute must win nature of the game, and given the Ravens angry state of mind, I forsee them winning this in a hotly contested low scoring grudge match.

Ravens 20 — Bengals 13

Matt Jergensen

Ravens 23 – Bengals 20

Baltimore must contain Cedric Benson in order to make the Bengal offense one dimensional. Benson has had a fantastic season so far but winning this battle will be the ultimate key for the Ravens to win this game. I would also expect a more varied game plan from Cam Cameron. This seems strange to write but the only defense this season that has truly slowed the offensive juggernaut were these same Bengals. I think the desperation to stay in the hunt helps push the Ravens over the top.

Gene Winner

The Ravens offensive has kicked it into a higher gear starting with the Minnesota game and followed by a great performance against Denver. Cincinnati had a great game plan in the first match up and Cam Cameron has been working hard to settle the score. With Jared Gaither back in the line up for a second week in a row and with Ray Rice clicking, the Ravens have the complete package.

On the defensive front, the Ravens unit will be motivated to slow down Cincinnati’s running game to say the least. In their first meeting the defense had a bad day stopping the run and this week they are focused to put the running game to a halt. The secondary was aggressive last week and made tackles behind the line of scrimmage, their mentality changed for the better. The Bengals are explosive and if the Ravens secondary picks up where they left off they can slow down the big plays. Carson Palmer and his receivers will make some plays but containment of the deep ball and pressure up front will be crucial

Ravens 30 – Bengals 19

Welcome to week nine of the NFL Regular Season. Before each game RavensGab will take a look at the various Ravens players poised to make a significant fantasy impact, and provide the strengths and weaknesses associated with each based on current trends and matchups.

Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals

November 8, 2009, 1:05 pm Cincinnati, OH

Weather Forecast: Partly Cloudy

Joe Flacco, QB (Week 8: 175 yds, 1 TD, 0 INT)

It wasn’t spectacular, it wasn’t flashy, but good Lord was it efficient. Joe Flacco commanded his offense brilliantly and did not fail to complete a pass in the latter half of the game as he led his team to a much needed victory. Flacco is quickly showing us what he is likely to become over the course of his career. He has the capability to put up big numbers, and will often do so, but when the situation calls for it he reverts back into his game manger persona and chews up the field.

Against the Broncos, Joe needed to be efficient and control the clock. That sort of mindset isn’t going to throw up the big fantasy points. Conversely against the Vikings, Joe was down big and had to throw the ball every which was but loose to get his team back in the game. That led to 380 yards and three touchdowns.

Joe is a good quarterback and a solid fantasy option. This week he faces the 28th ranked pass defense in the NFL. Assuming Cam doesn’t stick to a slow the ball down running attack, Joe should be poised to have a big day offensively.

Prediction: 250 yds, 2 TD

Ray Rice, RB (Week 8: 84 yds Rush, 24 yds Rec, 1 TD)

When Ray Rice was drafted, the Ravens envisioned him to be more or less what he was in college; a straight ahead runner with good explosiveness between the tackles. What they got was a whole other animal all together. Ray Rice is one of the top all around offensive weapons in the NFL, he has speed, great vision, and superior hands. Smart and savvy players who managed to pick him up in later rounds of the draft have used him to decimate their opponents week in and week out.

If you have him he’s a must start this week against the Bengals. Cincy has a solid rush defense, but their pass coverage is a tad suspect. I’d look for Ray to have another strong showing this Sunday at Paul Brown Stadium, perhaps not on the ground, but definitely through the air.

Prediction: 50 yds Rush, 80 yds Rec, 1 TD

Willis McGahee, RB (Week 8: -1 yds Rush, 4 yds Rec, 0 TD)

Willis McGahee continues to be missing in action and presumed dead. No one is sure what’s going on behind the purple curtain in Owings Mills, but Willis is being denied a place in Cam Cameron’s game plan. As in the game against the Broncos, there’s no logical explanation why, but he’s just disappeared entirely. One would think that Willis is just poised for a breakout game but only God knows when and if that will happen.

Prediction: 20 yds Rush, 10 yds Rec, 0 TD

Le’Ron McClain, FB/RB (Week 8: 31 yds Rush, 0 yds Rec, 0 TD)

Welcome back to the land of Fantasy Football relevance Le’Ron, you were sorely missed. Once the Denver defense had been fully worn down by Flacco’s punishing no huddle ofense, Le’Ron came into to truck down the last remaining energy they had left to fight.

It remains to be seen whether this was an aberration, or a sign of things to come, but for the time being Le’Ron should not be on your bench, nor on any team in your league (for now).

Prediction: 20 yds Rush, 5 Yds Rec, 0 TD)

Todd Heap, TE (Week 8: 16 yds, 0 TD)

There really isn’t much to add about Todd Heap that I didn’t already say last week, so I’ll just repeat myself with one caveat. Heap has been playing OK football for the past several weeks. Long gone are the days in which he’s going to nab you 10 pts a game on average, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t a serviceable fantasy option in a pinch.

Against the Bengals, Heap should probably have a pretty solid outing. The Broncos pass coverage unit is not the best, but their linebackers are solid. They’re adept at shutting down the short throws, which does not favor Heap, but if they’re drawn back to cover Washington, Mason and Clayton, Heap could be poised to have a breakout game.

Prediction: 45 yds, 1 TD

Derrick Mason, WR (Week 8: 40 yds, 1 TD)

Derrick Mason returned to form in his last two games against the broncos and Vikings respectively. Although he was shut out by the Bengals (whom he faces this week) there is no reason to suspect the same will happen as Baltimore makes the trip into Paul Brown Stadium. Mason is the consummate professional and will not tolerate another zero reception game. Leon Hall is a damn fine cornerback, but there is no way in heaven or on earth that Derrick Mason will be contained for all 60 minutes as he was three weeks ago.

Prediction: 60 yds, 1 TD

Mark Clayton, WR (Week 8: 33 yds, 0 TD)

Clayton has filled into his role as the number two receiver on this team. He’s never going to throw up huge fantasy umbers, but then again, unless you’re in the deepest of deep fantasy leagues he’s not even sniffing your bench let alone making a case for a starting spot.

The Bengals cannot cover the pass very well outside of about 20 yards. If Clayton can find a way to get separation and stay open, Flacco should reward him handsomely with any number of targets.

Prediction: 45 yrds, 1 TD

Kelley Washington, WR (Week 8: 58 yds, 0 TD)

After struggling a bit against the Bengals and Vikings respectively, Kelley Washington had a solid game as slot receiver against the Denver Broncos. Kelley has good hands and good vision, not to mention the fact that he’s 6’4, which allows him to catch some of Joe Flacco’s rainbow shots down the field. All of this adds up to him growing into a solid weapon of choice for his young QB. This will be Kelley’s first trip back to Cincinnati since his playing days there as a young Bengal. Hopefully that will add some much needed incentive to come up with the big plays.

Prediction: 65 yrds, 0 TD

Steven Hauschka, K (Week 8: 4 PATs, 1/2 FG (29 yds)

After a devastating game against the Vikings, Hauschka recovered nicely and went a very solid 3/3 on FG’s including a long 44 yarder which cost the Ravens the game in Minneapolis.

Against the Bengals, one would expect at least 2 FG’s out of young Hauschka, but beware the pressure of a division game if the score is close with little time remaining. He’s choked once badly, there’s no reason to think he may not do it again.

Prediction: 3 PATs, 2 FG (36/40 yds)

Defense (Week 6: 0 INT, 0 FF, 3 Sacks, 0 TD)

Last week against the Broncos, the Ravens’ Defense came buckled down and ready to play. Swarming all over the field, the unit resembled the fabled defenses of old and held the normally explosive Denver to 7 total points (gained largely in part to a series of defensive miscues).

Against the Bengals, proceed with more caution. Kyle Orton is no Carson Palmer. Chicago has a defense very similar to Baltimore’s and the Bengals torched them for 41 points. If the Ravens aren’t careful this could be a long day for them as well.

Eight weeks have quickly passed in the 2009 NFL season and it’s time to take a closer look at what the Baltimore Ravens did and maybe where they are headed.

It’s the teacher in me that feels the need to grade and assess progress I guess. It might have made a little more sense to do it last week during the bye but it only seemed fair to have the proper sample size.

So please join the Ravens Gab staff as we give our insights into the first half of the season and please feel free to give your comments at the bottom.

You always need a scorecard to know the players so please not the key below.

Matt Jergensen – MJ
Jonathan Scruggs – JS
Gene Winner – GW

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OVERALL OFFENSE:

MJ – B+

Easily the most prolific offense in franchise history so far. I’m still getting used to the idea that scoring touchdowns are an acceptable way to win games since being conditioned to accept Coach Billick’s “Dark side” philosophy for so many years.

JS - B+

Much better than expected. Still have much to accomplish however. The dangerous tandem of Ray Rice and Joe Flacco has other teams quaking in their boots.

GW – B+

Ranks as one of the best offenses in team history.

QUARTERBACK:

MJ - A

Joe Flacco continues to develop at a rapid rate. His low key demeanor is a perfect fit for the Baltimore crowd and his laser right arm will keep this offense humming for years.

JS – A-

No one knew what to expect out of Joe Flacco as he embarked on his sophomore season. He’s been wowing opposing defenses with his powerful arm and instinctive pocket presence since moment one.

GW - A

Flacco has composure beyond his years.

RUNNING BACKS:

MJ – B

The three headed monster went from two to one in eight weeks. Rice is a superstar in the making. Make no mistake they will need McGahee down the stretch.

JS – B+

Ray Rice is an absolute monster. Willis started off blazing hot before being pushed to the backburner. Le’Ron still has the talent and has developed into a solid blocker.

GW - B+

Ray Rice is dynamite! Let’s see more of McClain and McGahee

RECEIVERS/TIGHT END:

MJ - B

Mason is a pro, Clayton shows flashes of brilliance, KWash can catch and dance and Heap is effective once again. An APB is still out for Demetrius Williams.

JS – B

Derrick Mason has been as dependable as ever. Mark Clayton still struggles with inconsistency. Kelley Washington is quickly developing into a solid 3rd down option.

Todd Heap has found the fountain of youth this year and has managed to stay healthy. L.J. Smith has had little impact but looks to reinsert himself in the offense the second he gets the chance.

GW – B/C

We’re all happy Mason didn’t retire. Heap can still make plays, but in Cam’s offense the TE’s do a lot of blocking.

OFFENSIVE LINE:

MJ - B+

This has the makings of a great group. Birk has been solid and Oher has been a monster.

JS – A-

They don’t always play the most exciting brand of football, but this young Offensive Line has been impressive through the first half of the season. The guards need work, and Matt Birk does seem to be struggling at times, but you have to excited about Gaither and Oher on the bookends.

GW - B+

This O-line has to be one of the tops in the league.

OVERALL DEFENSE:

MJ – C-

Take away the Denver game and they deserve a D for deplorable. The days of dominance are over.

JS - B-

Not the same ferocious and feared Defense it once was. Mistakes in fundamentals, and mistakes on penalties have severely handicapped this once proud unit.

GW - C-

We have high standards for Defense in Baltimore.

DEFENSIVE LINE

MJ - B-

The line played well until two 100 yard plus rushing games showed cracks in the team’s greatest strength. Gregg hasn’t been the same since his return.

JS - B

A solid unit, but one which needs to find a way to win its 1 on 1 matchups and get to the Quarterback. The Broncos game was a much needed revelation into what this unit could be.

GW - C

LINEBACKERS:

MJ - B

Lewis still can make plays and lead a defense. Finding Bart Scott’s replacment has proved more difficult than thought but Jarret Johnson has stepped up in a big way this season.

JS - B+

The heart of this Defense has once again remained strong. Jared Johnson is having a career year, Ray Lewis has not lost anything in his 14th season. Tavares Gooden, Jameel McClain and Dannell Ellerbe have all shown that they will be formidable for years to come.

GW - B

Ray Lewis, the “Stop” in San Diego was sensational. “Double J” is having a great year.

SECONDARY:

MJ - C-

The unit showed signs of correcting a poor first half against Denver. Reed is starting to pick up steam just as he did last season.

JS - C

I hesitate to rank this unit lower. The corners have been the biggest weak spot on this Ravens team. They have cost the team victories on more than one occasion. The only saving grace in the Secondary has been the play of Ed Reed. The man is simply unstoppable. I’d like to speak more about Dawan Landry, but he’s been a ghost. Absolutely ineffective.

GW - C-

Ed Reed gets a ‘B’ and below par for the rest.

SPECIAL TEAMS

MJ- B-

Hauschka has been decent with field goals (of course minus a game winner) but he only has three touchbacks this season. Wasn’t that the main reason they cut Stover loose? Koch has been solid but is off his spectaular ability to hit inside the ten from a season ago..

JS - B+

Sam Koch continues to dominate other teams with his strong right leg. Steve Hauschka missed a crucial FG which cost the Ravens a victory in Minneapolis. This is a unit which is getting better but still needs work.

GW - B

Improving every week.

COVERAGE:

MJ - C+

The unit has been okay and certainly showed fire in last week’s win.

JS- B

An absolutely stellar game against the Broncos has hopefully returned confidence to this unit. When it’s on it’s great, when it’s off they’re run of the mill but still very strong.

GW - B

Koch is stellar.

RETURN GAME

MJ - C+

Webb is a legitimate threat to take it back every time. Just keep giving him reps. Carr has been unmipressive and indecisive for a veteran returner.

JS - C+

Lardarius Webb is emerging as a legitimate return threat. Chris Carr has been a rousing disappointment.

GW - B

We have a returner in Lardarius Webb!

COACHING:

MJ - B

Harbaugh talks a good game about discipline yet the team is still one of the most penalized in the league. I like what Cameron has done with the offense but this team needs balance to win. Mattison appears to have adjusted from early setbacks.

JS- B

This is a coaching staff who has all the talents to be an undefeated squad. They’re doing a great job with setting the plan and the schemes, but have lost sight of coaching the most important aspect of the game, Fundamentals. Additionally more discipline is needed to stem the wave of Penalties the team has taken so far this season.

GW - B

Def. Coordinator Mattison rebounded well last game, but if we are grading him for just the first half of the season you have to give him a below average grade (C-). Cam Cameron‘s receives a B+, Cameron is probably one of the top offensive coordinators in the NFL. You have to like Coach Harbaugh, he has been an influential part of this team’s success.

OVERALL

MJ - B

This team has lost so many close games that they could easily be 7-0 and just as easily could be 2-5. It is clear though that they have the talent to match with any team in the AFC.

JS - B+

Although the Ravens stand at a mediocre 4-3 at the midway point, they’re record belies just how good this team really is. All three losses were by under 6 points and literally came down to the final plays of the game.

GW - C

With the Ravens at 4-3 the team receives a C. Let’s face it, the team could easily be 5-2 and if that were the case they would receive an easy B.

OFFENSIVE MVP

MJ – Joe Flacco

After years of settling for mediocrity under center Baltimore finally has a leader at the helm of the offense. He makes at least one play a week that shows he’s a special player.

JS- Ray Rice

I’m tempted to go with Joe Flacco here, but Ray has been absolutely electrifying in his sophomore season. Leading the league in all purpose yards, there’s not a team in the league who has had an answer for him. He may be small, but he’s got enormous talent.

GW - Ray Rice

Co-MVP’s: Flacco & Mason. Honorable Mention: Kelly Washington & LeRon McClain

DEFENSIVE MVP

MJ- Jarret Johnson

The team leader in sacks (5) who has stepped up his game with the absence of Bart Scott.

JS- Jarrett Johnson

The unsung hero of this Defense so far. He’s not as flashy as some of the other members of this unit, but he has been out there giving it 150% every single down and every single play. His motor simply does not stop, and its an absolute shame that he does not get more of the attention he so richly deserves.

GW- Ed Reed

Co-MVP’s: Ray Lewis & Jarrett Johnson

TOP ROOKIE

MJ - Michael Oher

The monster is out of the cage! He’s an intelligent player with a nasty side. I only shudder to think what he’ll look like with a few years of NFL experience under his belt.

JS - Michael Oher

This kid has been an absolute rock no matter which end of the line you put him on. He clearly has some maturity issues with the number of dumb penalties, but with continued growth, this talented tackle is going to be something special.

GW- Michael Oher

(Honorable mention: Lardarius Webb)

COMMENTS

MJ - This team could walk a similar path back to the AFC Title game. However they have a much tougher stretch of games to navigate with Indianapolis and Pittsburgh twice. They have the talent but must put all three phases together to prove they can beat the elite teams.

JS - This is a team that is standing on the door step of greatness. They have all the necessary tools to take them back to the AFC Championship game and beyond. The only glaring weakness is their inability to play fundamentally sound football. If they can shore up the minor weaknesses in their technique and attitudes, then there is no reason why they cannot ascend to the highest levels of the game. A tough road lies ahead, but it’s not anything this team cannot overcome.

GW- Defense
If it wasn’t for that stop by Ray Lewis in San Diego and the turnaround in the Denver game, the defense would probably receive a failing grade. If the Denver game is the type of defense Maittison will be calling from now on then the unit will be in good shape. For the secondary it’s all about confidence, attitude and being in the right position. The Defensive line substitutions have been a good idea and LB Darnell Ellerbe is impressive in the line up.

Offense
Cam Cameron has totally revamped this unit’s mindset, they can score! This unit would have received a grade of an ‘A’ but it had 2 missed opportunities to close out games. If the offense can consistently put teams away they will be dangerous. Flacco and Rice are awesome, along with an excellent offensive line they can only improve. Even though Ray Rice is having a spectacular season, you have to think that McClain and McGahee need to have more touches in order to keep Ray Rice fresh.

This rematch is in Cincinnati and the Ravens look to be the spoiler in this game. Ravens fans and players were not happy with the way the first match up ended in Baltimore just a few weeks ago. The Bengals drove down the field on the final drive and Ray Lewis was flagged for hitting receiver Chad 85 knocking his helmet off. After the hit by Lewis the defense surrendered TD in the closing seconds. The Bengals O-line pushed the Ravens around a bit and Cedric Benson ran for over 100 yards in that game as well. The Ravens will be motivated while having regained some confidence after last week’s performance.

OFFENSE: QB Carson Palmer continues success this season making good decisions and consistently connecting passes to his talented wide receivers. The offensive line featuring three new starters with Left tackle Andrew Whitworth, Bobbie Williams and Kyle Cook are progressing well. Wide receivers Chad Ohcocinco and WR Andre Caldwell are getting plenty of opportunities and both have had game changing catches. There is depth at the receiver position with Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. Tight End J.P. Foschi is has moved up in the depth chart. Running back Cedric Benson continues to prove he is a legitimate running back and is consistently running the ball well.

Lately: The Bengals dismantled the Chicago Bears before their bye week. QB Carson Palmer was stellar attacking the secondary with his talented receivers. Left tackle Andrew Whitworth has only given up one sack this year. The offense remains a challenge for any defense, the unit is well balanced.

DEFENSE: Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer motivates his unit each week to play at a high level. Linebackers Rey Maualuga (rookie), Dhani Jones (65 tackles) and Keith Rivers (61 tackles) have improved this defense. A key injury since the last meeting with the Ravens is Defensive end Antwan Odom who is out for the season. Cornerbacks and Johathan Joseph and Leon Hall are making plays, sometimes however giving up too many yards with the mid to deep pass. The secondary has eight interceptions, three for Jonathan Joseph and three for Leon Hall along with two by Chris Crocker.
Lately: Overall the defense getting pressure upfront and is getting the job done. If there is any weakness with the secondary it is that they are giving up some passing yardage.

MATCH-UPS: Chalk it up!

Ravens Defense: The unit is coming off an excellent defensive game and will have to step up again in order to slow down RB Cedric Benson. With QB Carson Palmer and the deep threat the defense will not be able to keep the safeties up in the box as they did against Denver. Receivers Chad 85 and Andre Caldwell must me kept in check. The Ravens blitzing schemes and movement at the line was a welcomed sight against Denver and they will need to remain committed to pressuring QB Palmer in order to be effective.

Cedric Benson vs. Ray Lewis: Round 2. Ray Lewis and teammates will be motivated to contain RB Cedric Benson. The Ravens linebackers will have to stay true to their form and relay on shutting down any running lanes Benson has available.

Chad 85 vs. Secondary: You might think that the Ravens will double team Chad 85, however, a new target has emerged for Palmer in WR Andre Caldwell. The Ravens secondary covered and tackled well last week, they must continue to be aggressive in order to cover the Bengals receivers. Ed Reed scored a pick 6 against Palmer the first match up.

Ravens offensive game plan: Ravens offense mustered only one TD in the last meeting. In their first match up the Ravens offense failed to make big plays downfield and in this game Flacco will need to throw into tight windows to have success. The running game with Ray Rice is starting to take on consistency and the offense will need to have big day on the ground in order to open up the passing game. Hopefully, we’ll see McClain and McGahee get a few more touches.

Ray Rice vs. Bengals LB’s: Ray Rice should be starting to draw attention from opposing defenses. Rice is a threat when the ball is in his hands and it will be interesting to see how the Bengals try to slow him down. It will also be interesting to see if Cam Cameron mixes it up with McGahee and McClain to throw off the Bengals who are preparing for Rice.

Bengals Defensive line vs. Ravens Offensive line: In game one Michale Oher was forced to start in the Left tackle position, with Jadred Gaither back it will be a positive factor for the O-line in this game.

Division Game: The Bengals sit atop the Ravens and this match up is crucial. The Ravens offense had a chance to finish the Bengals off a few weeks ago and this game if the opportunity arises they must execute. The Ravens offense had a spectacular drive to finish off Denver which will give the unit momentum heading into to Sunday’s match-up. The Defense must keep the mindset of attacking every team they play; priority number one is continuing the intensity from last week.

What a difference a week makes.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh wouldn’t comment on Haloti Ngata’s sprained right ankle.

“As with all injuries, we’ll have an injury report on Wednesday,” Harbaugh said during Monday’s news conference.

But Ngata’s injury isn’t considered serious. The starting defensive tackle left with 10 minutes remaining in the third quarter Sunday and didn’t return. Still, the Ravens were ahead 13-0 at the time and were never really threatened, which likely played in the decision not to bring back Ngata.

According to a team official, Ngata had his ankle taped twice but he didn’t feel comfortable with it. X-rays were negative.

Ngata has been one of the most durable Ravens. Since being drafted in the first round in 2006, he has never been sidelined in his 55-game career.

John Harbaugh doesn’t normally release any information if he can help it. So I’m not terribly concerned yet. I would expected him to be be limited in practice anyway but we’ll have to wait to see if he’s sidelined for Sunday or not.

The first play of this game set the tone for the afternoon.

Kyle Orton was in the shotgun and no sooner than the ball was in his hands he was crushed to the turf by Jarret Johnson.

There was more where that came from as Baltimore, desperate to halt their three game losing streak outplayed Denver in every facet of the game.

The much maligned defense was focused and had Orton (23-37, 152) running for cover. His offense consisted of dump-offs and throw a ways. They also held the Denver backfield to 66 yards rushing and restarted their streak of holding runners under 100 yards. But perhaps the most welcome sight was the play of the secondary. Fabian Washington and Domonique Foxworth looked good jumping short routes and staying right on top of Brandon Marshall. Marshall was held to only 4 catches and his longest reception was 9 yards. Ed Reed threw a huge hit on Knowshon Moreno to cause a fumble that led to the first points of the game as Steve Hauschka hit a field goal to put Baltimore up 3-0.

Special Teams, which has also had its share of adversity played exceedingly well on all sides. Kicker Steve Hauschka converted all three of his field goal tries and his long and high kickoffs helped the coverage team bottle up dangerous return man Eddie Royal. But the big play came from kick returner Lardarius Webb who ran the opening kickoff of the second half back 95 yards for the score to help the Ravens jump ahead 13-0.

Lastly the offense moved the ball well most of the day. Joe Flacco (20-25, 175, 1 TD) didn’t out up gaudy numbers but he was very efficient on his way to a 109 Quarterback rating. He was slippery evading the rush but more importantly he and his offense continued to convert on third down, (10 for 18) a stat that the Bronco defense had held control over so far this season. Flacco’s touchdown strike to Derrick Mason early in the Fourth seemed to seal the deal as Baltimore was up 23 to 7 at that point with still about 13 minutes left to play.

There was a return to true balance in the offense as Ray Rice once again showed his flair on the ground and out of the backfield. Rice ran for 84 yards on 23 carries with 1 touchdown, and he also caught 5 passes for 24 yards as well. It was nice to see Baltimore get back to handing Le’Ron McClain the ball and getting him carries late to wear out the defense and clock.

So with this sterling effort Baltimore snaps their losing streak and moves to 4-3 and next week will be another big game and a chance at redemption as they take on the co-leader in the AFC North, the Cincinnati Bengals (5-2).

POINTS TO PONDER

What did the defense do differently today?

First, they executed the fundamentals. They tackled and gang tackled very well today. They were quick to the ball and did not over commit nearly as much as they have in the past.Second, the secondary had its best game of the year. The play of both safeties were fantastic as they stuffed the run and stayed at home to help over the top with what few deep balls they saw. This allowed the corners to press up and jump the short routes. You had to feel good for Washington, Foxworth and Carr. They deserved a lot of bashing through the first six but they also deserve a heap of praise for their play today. Third, I noticed much more pre-snap movement today. It wasn’t Rex Ryan worthy by any means but they mixed up the blitzes in terms of situation and more importantly where they were coming from. Even though they only registered two sacks they had consistent pressure on Orton all game. In fact they should have had three interceptions today but all three were the victim of getting too excited and reacting a bit too quickly. But you can hardly blame them, the defense played well and they knew it.

Should Lardarius Webb return kicks and punts for the rest of the season?

Do I have to answer that? I guess I should since I asked it. YES!!!!! His kickoff return for a touchdown was a thing of beauty, not just because he showed a solid burst and a decisive dash to the gap but what impressed me most was his angular running. I think I just made up a new term. He appeared gassed as he was chased by three Broncos around their thirty but his ability to run and switch angles gave him enough space to get to the end zone.Carr continues to not know when to fair catch and when to run it out and even when he does run it out he simply isn’t a threat to break out anything past twenty yards.

Has Cam finally given in to a Balanced offense?

I sure hope so. I understand to a degree what he’s been trying to do as this offense continues to evolve. But I have always said you have to be who you are. The game plan last season seemed to work pretty well so why go so far away from it? I know it has to change somewhat but it must fit your personnel. This offensive line is huge and run blocks very well, getting Jared Gaither back was a welcome sight. You also saw a return to the unbalanced line this game which was another weapon that matches well with this roster. Of course Joe Flacco is better than last year and you can add a few deep throws along with the screens and involving Todd Heap over the middle. Kelley Washington was also a key contributor today on third down. He’s another piece that they added that has been effective.

Today the offense had a nice flow to it and it also got Baltimore back into something else they did very well last season, controlling the ball and the clock. Time of Possession Battle: Baltimore – 33:37 Denver 26:23.

Who was the offensive player of the game?

Ray Rice. He’s a special player. His one handed grab didn’t get a first down but it did add another highlight to his reel for 2009. Honorable mention to Kelley Washington for his third down heroics and Flacco for sidestepping a pretty good Denver rush.

Who was the defensive player of the game?

It would easy to give the game ball to the whole unit. But I really liked the play of Jarret Johnson who had it stepped up into fifth gear today. The secondary was already noted and Ray Lewis was solid as usual. Keep an eye on Danell Ellerbee. We may have found our replacement for Bart Scott.

Week 8: Denver Broncos at Baltimore Ravens

Sunday November 1, 2009 1:05 PM

Line: Ravens -3.5

Welcome back… Have a nice vacation?  The Ravens return from a much needed bye week to face off against the Denver Broncos. After a promising 3-0 start to their season, the Ravens find themselves in the middle of an impressive tailspin. Three straight loses to top-flight teams all by six points or less find this team struggling to maintain its identity and get back on track. Each week the Ravens are right on the doorstep, but for some reason or another come up short due to lapses of judgment, sloppy mechanics, or just plain bad luck.

From here on out the road to the playoffs is fought with peril. Nothing will come easy as the Ravens face the elite teams in the NFL. To make it to the Promised Land, the black birds of Baltimore likely have to win eight of the next ten games. That is tantamount to staring down Everest, especially with undefeated Denver, white hot Cincinnati, power house Pittsburgh, and dominating Indianapolis all standing in the way.

However, the win streak must start with the first snap, the first drive, the first tackle. Today is step one.

With that in mind let’s take a look at this week’s match up.

RavensGab.com Keys to the Game

Return to Form

This Ravens defense is suffering its worst identity crisis in arguably the entire span of the franchise’s existence. For the first time since the days of infancy, the Ravens defense is struggling to hold its own, while the offense continues to soar.

To win, to make the playoffs, the Ravens must return to form and find a way to protect their backside on Defense. I’ve been pretty down on the secondary the last couple of weeks, but I think its time I took a renewed optimistic look. The thing is, the number one tenet of faith every Ravens fan holds is that Ozzie Newsome is God, and we live in his kingdom. Ozzie knows what he’s doing and its time we trust him,

Ozzie brought in Foxworth for his dedication, education, and speed. He brought in Fabian Washington for similar reasons. Frank Walker is an aggressive back with a nonstop motor. They’re all solid cornerbacks who just need to hunker down, dig deep and find the football player in side of themselves, that Ozzie new was there from the beginning.  If the Ravens can do that they will win this game. Additionally, Denver is not a long bomb team. Orton’s accuracy suffers greatly when he passes for 20 yards or more. This is a team that knaws you o death n offense and wears you down with its dominating run. The Ravens are set up on Defense to step teams like this. If we can contain Brandon Marshall, then we will dominate this match up.

Dominate Brandon Marshall

Winning the game starts here. The biggest weaknesses the Ravens are facing right now is they’re propensity to give up the big plays on defense. They have constantly been allowing plays from scrimmage of 30 yards+ when they gave up only three in the entirety of last year’s campaign.

For all of his whining and moaning and posturing, Brandon Marshall is one hell of a wide receiver. He’s finally calmed down and is emerging as a deadly threat for Kyle Orton. Its not that Marshall will beat you badly in a one on one stretch match up, its that he beats you badly on his yards after the carry. The kid has moves like a running back in the open field, and has a knack for turning ten yards into forty.

Contain Brandon Marshall, force Kyle Orton to throw his short passes, and the Ravens linebackers will dominate and put up three and outs like its going out of style.

Possess the Ball

The ravens have been fairing miserably in this department all season. The once proud and mighty franchise no longer has the ability to control the ball and control the tempo of the game. Don’t get me wrong, I love to watch Cam Cameron’s high and mighty pass plays. They’re electric, they’re exciting, they get the fans amped, but ultimately its not always the best strategy. The Ravens used to dominate by controlling the ball. They milked the clock with the best of them. Let’s get this straight; if you win the time of possession battle, eight times out of ten you will win the game. If the other team has the ball, they cannot score, they cannot put up points, simply, they cannot win.

Cam must remember this and get back to basics.

Return to Fundamentals.

Right now the biggest handicap the Ravens face is their inability to remember the fundamentals of the game. Sound tackling, smart defense and proper technique have all been lost to this team. For whatever reason the team has gone from disciplined and mechanically sound, to all around sloppy and downright lazy.

The Ravens must return to their roots and work on the fundamentals of the game, which help them win. Experts and masters at their crafts will all tell you the same thing, just because you are the best, or an elite level talent, does not mean you can forget the foundations of your art which allowed you to reach the top.  Winning starts with doing your job right.

Ravens Gab Predictions

Jonathon Scruggs

The Broncos are undefeated. The Ravens are in a tailspin. Both teams are coming off the bye week looking to get a win and set the tone for the second half of the season.  The odds makers have given the nods to the Ravens ever so slightly. This is another toss up game with the edge given to the home team.

In the end I believe in Ozzie Newsom, I believe in John Harbaugh, I believe in Greg Mattison and I believe in Cam Cameron. I also believe that home cooking will do this team right and the Ravens will return to their winning ways.

Ravens 27 — Broncos 17

Matt Jergensen

There are three reasons why Baltimore wins today.

First, they are playing at home and since they moved into M & T they have a tremendous home record and as anyone who has been to a game there it is one of the more underrated home fields in the NFL. Second, the Ravens need this game more than Denver. The Broncos are of to an unexpected fast start and with San Diego floundering they are up several games in the AFC West. Thirdly, Baltimore will be at it’s healthiest with the return of Jared Gaither. Oher did a credible job moving over but when both of these behemoths are in the game the line is just better.

I’d love to say this will be a blowout but Denver has there defense playing off the charts and in my opinion over it’s head. Look for Joe Flacco to continue to keep the offense humming.

Ravens 26 Broncos 21

Gene Winner

The Ravens go into this game finding themselves fighting to get back into the win column to continue their playoff hopes.  The offense must begin to finish games and it is essential for the defense to start making plays.

There is no doubt that Denver is a real challenge and their defense can bring the heat. The Ravens offense will need to counter Denver’s blitzing schemes with some plays to RB Ray Rice. The defense will step up; the unit looks to get back their confidence and respect after playing sub par for the first part of the season.

This is a must win for the Ravens and playing at home will prove to be the advantage they need

Ravens 27 – Broncos 24