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Ravens vs. Bengals, Week 5
Washington

Ravens vs. Bengals, Week 5

Important storylines

Will the Ravens’ rushing attack remain dominant?

The Ravens have rushed for at least 270 yards in consecutive games, the first team to do so since 2016. Cincinnati ranks just 25th against the run, and Derrick Henry ran for 122 yards against Cincinnati last season while playing with the Tennessee Titans. Henry’s comfort level with Baltimore’s offensive scheme appears to be improving every week, and Baltimore’s premier rushing attack could keep Burrow off the field and make it a long day for the Bengals’ defense.

Can Joe Burrow succeed against Baltimore’s pass defense?

The Ravens have contained Burrow well over the past few seasons, holding him to fewer than 225 yards passing in his last four starts against them. However, Baltimore’s pass defense got off to a rocky start and is still ranked 28th after a strong performance against the Bills. The Bengals will attack Baltimore’s secondary, with Burrow targeting star receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. It will likely be a busy day for Ravens corners Marlon Humphrey, Brandon Stephens and Nate Wiggins as they try to contain Burrow and his weapons.

Can the Ravens make an early statement in the AFC North?

This is the first division game for both teams, and Baltimore has the opportunity to put the Bengals in a hole early in the season. The Ravens are the defending AFC North champions and appear to have rebounded after their 0-2 start. The Bengals still have questions to answer as their only win comes in Week 4 against the Carolina Panthers. It’s only Week 5, but if the Ravens win their third straight game and drop the Bengals to 1-4, Baltimore’s prospects would rise while Cincinnati’s would clearly fall.

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