Ravens Rise Again as Cincinnati Bengals Secure Their First Win
The Rivalry Renewed
As the AFC North rivalry heats up once again, the Baltimore Ravens (2-2, 2-2-0 ATS) are set to take on the Cincinnati Bengals (1-3, 2-2-0 ATS) this Sunday at 1:00 p.m. EST at Paycor Stadium. Both teams come off victories in their previous matchups, but their paths this season have been rocky. Historically, this matchup favors Baltimore, who swept the Bengals in 2023 and covered the spread in both encounters. Will the Ravens continue their dominance, or is Cincinnati primed for a comeback?
Baltimore Ravens: Back in Form
After a stellar 35-10 victory against the previously unbeaten Buffalo Bills last week, the Ravens showcased the power of their dynamic rushing attack. Quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry combined for an astonishing 253 rushing yards on 30 carries, highlighting Baltimore’s ability to control the game on the ground. Currently, the Ravens lead the NFL in rushing yards, attempts, and average yards per carry. Their offense is also impressive overall, averaging 429.5 yards per game (1st in the league) and scoring 26.5 points per contest (5th).
When the Ravens need to pass, they’re no slouches either, boasting an average of 7.9 yards per attempt (8th in the NFL). Remarkably, Jackson has only been sacked four times, and the team has committed just three turnovers so far. Stopping Baltimore’s offense when they are in rhythm has proven to be an arduous task for opposing defenses.
On the defensive side, the Ravens aren’t quite as formidable as last season, but they remain a tough matchup. Baltimore ranks first in the league in rushing defense, allowing the fewest rushing yards both per carry and per game. With 13 sacks recorded this season, the Ravens’ pass rush remains a threat. However, their secondary has shown vulnerabilities, allowing 257.5 passing yards per game (28th in the NFL) and 7.6 yards per attempt (25th). They have allowed 22 points per game, bolstered by four takeaways. How will they build on last week’s impressive showing against the Bengals?
Cincinnati Bengals: First Win Secured
After a challenging start to the season, the Bengals finally notched their first victory last week, defeating the Carolina Panthers 34-24 on the road. The Cincinnati offense has steadily improved, now averaging 25.5 points per game (9th in the NFL). They have exceeded 30 points in their last two contests, indicating a return to form. The Bengals average 5.9 yards per play, also ranking ninth overall. Although they don’t run the ball frequently, their rushing attack has been effective, averaging 4.6 yards per carry. Quarterback Joe Burrow is having a solid season, averaging 244.5 passing yards per game (8th in the league) with a completion percentage of 70.9%—good for sixth overall. However, they have struggled with ball security, registering four turnovers and allowing eight sacks.
Despite the offensive fireworks, the Bengals’ defense has been a significant concern. They have allowed 24 or more points in three consecutive games, currently ranking 27th in the league with 26 points allowed per game. Cincinnati has been slightly better in pass defense, allowing the ninth-fewest passing yards per attempt (6.6). However, the pass rush has been anemic, generating only five sacks on the season. The Bengals also struggle against the run, yielding 145.5 rushing yards per game (25th) and allowing 4.4 yards per carry. With only four takeaways to their name, they need a defensive spark to turn the tide against their rivals.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Ravens are on the rebound, bringing a powerful rushing attack and a strong overall performance into this crucial AFC North matchup. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals are eager to build on their first win of the season and show that they can compete at a high level. This clash promises to be a fierce battle as both teams look to establish their identity in the 2024 NFL season. Will the Ravens assert their dominance once again, or can the Bengals find their footing against a familiar foe? Fans are in for an electrifying matchup this Sunday!
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