As stated the week one matchup was brutal as the Baltimore Ravens thumped the Cleveland Browns 38-6.
History does not favour the Browns in this matchup, or in general. It is not forgotten that this Ravens franchise was originally from Cleveland and many Browns fans are still bitter about the success that has followed the Baltimore.
This is different though the Browns have a real shot at making the playoffs for the first time since 2002. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has coached this team well and made them real contenders. Now the Browns have to prove it on a real stage in front of the whole country.
The quarterback Matchups
A lot of people forget this season Lamar Jackson is the reigning MVP. Jackson has the power to change a game and is a true dual-threat Quarterback. This season was definitely a back to earth impact season for Lamar. A get straight game against the Dallas Cowboys is what the doctor ordered as Jackson threw two touchdowns and ran for another. Jackson has played well in the past against the Browns and will look to pick up once more.
Baker Mayfield is back to his rookie days, where he has confidence throwing to any receiver on the team. He also has gone 23 straight quarters without throwing an interception—something he hasn't done in his career, Mayfield also three interceptions against the Ravens week one. So if six can keep the ball, it is a recipe for success. Cleveland had the benefit of facing a Jaguars and Titans team that featured no pass rush over the past two weeks. Baltimore isn’t elite in the pass-rushing department this year, but it has to be accounted for.
Running game is again forefront.
The Browns and the Ravens have the number one and two running games in the NFL. The Browns dropped from one to two as Mayfield had the game of his season so far last week in Nashville.
Even with Mayfield throwing out of his mind Nick Chubb still managed to get 80 yards and a touchdown. The Browns are 7-1 with Chubb starting and his numbers this season are top tier.
The Ravens do have a running game of their own with Promminet pair Gus Edwards and J.k Dobbins. Who both went for 100 yards last week at the Cowboys. Now Dallas has the worst rushing defence in the NFL and Cleveland just got off keeping Derrick Henry quiet so you would think it will be in the Browns advantage there.
The Verdict
The Browns have a real chance to change a national narrative about themselves in a big spot. Lose here, and they're still the little brother of the AFC North. Win and the winds of change are blowing.
The Ravens, however, need to win to keep playoff hopes alive and control the narrative they are still to be taken seriously this season.
The quarterback will decide this one. Lamar Jackson was the 2019/20 MVP for a reason. Ravens to win this game.
Final Score: Baltimore Ravens 31-14 Cleveland Browns