The Falcons are a fading team right now that has lost consecutive games to the Detroit Lions and the Cleveland Browns. Their team has looked awful the last two weeks. The Ravens are flying high at 7-2, even though they have been more lucky than good.
The Falcons would love to get their running game going against the Ravens, but that will be easier said then done. The Ravens only allow 79.7 yards rushing per game and 3.1 yards per carry, so the Falcons may have to throw the ball first to open up the running game, that seemed to work against the Steelers. The problem with that is the Ravens pass rush is very good and their outside linebackers are good on outside containment, so chances are the Falcons will have to use short passes to Alge Crumpler to get things going. The Falcons also need to get rookie running back Jerious Norwood back and involved, because Warrick Dunn (761 yards rushing) won’t be able to carry a full load against a hard-hitting defense like the Ravens. Vick must also run the ball well himself and protect the football, because the Ravens will be coming after it.
The Ravens and Steve McNair are probably licking their chops when looking at all the injuries on the Falcons defense. Look for the Ravens to throw alot early in the game to build a lead, and then let Jamal Lewis (578 yards rushing) try to grind out the game on the ground. The Ravens should have success throwing the ball because the Falcons won’t have anybody that can get to McNair with all the injuries along the front line of the Falcons defense. Also, the Falcons secondary is very beat up. Look for the passing to begin with short ones to Mason and Heap…..and then bombs away to Mark Clayton.Â
Look for the Ravens to build a lead in this game through the air and take the Falcons out of their running game. After that happens, Michael Vick will make some huge errors and the Ravens will cruise to an easy victory.