The Ravens' path to the postseason could hinge on this question.
Will they win the AFC North? It's imperative for the Ravens to capture a third straight division crown, because only one team from the AFC North may make the playoffs this season. Trailing the Pittsburgh Steelers (5-4) by just one game entering Week 11, the Ravens face an important divisional matchup against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.
A victory would keep the pressure on Pittsburgh and give Baltimore a season sweep over the Browns (2-7) for the first time since 2020. While the Browns have been struggling, something about facing Baltimore seems to bring out their best, especially in Cleveland.
"It's an AFC North game," Head Coach John Harbaugh said. "It's going to be one of those – it's going to be cold; it's going to be rainy; it's going to be windy. It's going to be on the shores of Lake Erie. We're used to this; this is Cleveland, and this is how these games go. We just have the utmost respect for how they play. So, we have to be at our best."
Here are my thoughts as the Ravens prepare to face the Browns, all in 50 words or less:
- Pro Bowl fullback Patrick Ricard lives for physical matchups like Sunday's. Since his return from a calf injury, Ricard's playing time has steadily increased. He played a season-high 52.7% of Baltimore's offensive snaps in Week 10. I expect Ricard on the field even more against the Browns, paving the way for Derrick Henry.
- Ricard didn't play in Week 2 when Cleveland held Henry to 23 yards rushing. In the three games since Ricard's return, Henry has rushed for at least 71 yards. Baltimore must be physical up front to run successfully against Cleveland, and Ricard will help accomplish that.
- Speaking of running, I'm curious to see how many touches Keaton Mitchell gets against Cleveland, especially with Justice Hill ruled out. Mitchell still hasn't had more than four carries in any game this season. If Mitchell gets six to 10 carries, it increases his chances to break a long one.
- Orchestrating defensive celebrations in the end zone may be the only thing that Kyle Hamilton doesn't do well. Not only does he play multiple positions, but Hamilton has the intellect to handle the multiple defensive assignments. The Ravens don't want to think about where they'd be without him.
- Devontez Walker should be active against the Browns with Rashod Bateman ruled out. In Week 2 against Cleveland, Walker scored two touchdowns. As a young receiver, Walker has already learned how to stay prepared in case his number is called. I expect him to make plays.
- Marlon Humphrey (finger) won't play Sunday, but the improved Ravens defense seems better equipped to handle his absence. Chidobe Awuzie has been solid playing outside corner and could start. Awuzie is coming off one of his best games, and his value as an offseason pickup shouldn't be overlooked.
- Hopefully Mike Green (ankle) can play vs. Cleveland, because he's trending up. His pass rush moves are gaining polish, and he's been defending the run well. Green has been part of Baltimore's defensive resurgence. He's much more than just a pass rusher.
- Travis Jones received props from Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr this week for his standout game against Minnesota. Jones had a sack, three quarterback hits, and two batted passes. He has been occupying two blockers consistently, allowing others in the front seven to make plays.
- The Ravens rank 27th in scoring touchdowns on red zone trips (50%), after ranking first last season (74%). The Browns are averaging just 16.2 points per game. Baltimore could take control of this game by taking full advantage of its red zone opportunities.
- Not only does Malaki Starks lead the Ravens in defensive snap counts (601), but he leads all NFL rookies. Yet, instead of looking fatigued, Starks' play is getting stronger, with interceptions in each of the last two games. That's another positive sign for Baltimore's defense down the stretch.
