Date: Monday, September 10th, 2007
Time: 7:00pm (EST)
Media Outlet(s): ESPN, CBS/WJZ-TV
Location: Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati (Ohio)
2006 Head-to-Head Match-up Review
Week 9: Bengals 20-Ravens 26
Week 13: Ravens 7-Bengals 13
When the Ravens have the ball
Rushing: It will be critical for the Ravens to control the game on the ground, keeping Carson Palmer on the sidelines. Baltimore's offensive line struggled a great deal during the preseason, but the unit was missing All-Pro left tackle Jonathan Ogden (toe)
Passing: In his first year as a starter, right tackle Adam Terry will be tested in pass protection. In fact, the Ravens may choose to keep a tight end on the right side on throwing downs. Robert Geathers is not a starter, but has developed into a very good pass rusher who could give Terry fits if the two are left alone on a regular basis.
When the Bengals have the ball
Rushing: Running the ball successfully against the Ravens is not easy and Rudi Johnson will get little help from his backfield mates. While Johnson is a fine running back who is operating behind an excellent offensive line, he has dropped weight in the offseason and is beginning to show signs of aging. He might not be the workhorse he once was.
Passing: Palmer has outstanding ability as a passer. He can fit the ball into very tight windows and is deadly accurate. He also has a great feel for the rhythm of his receivers. Baltimore's defense is obviously very fast and aggressive, meaning Palmer must be very sound with his decision making.
ESPN.com - read full story here
ESPN's Prediction: Ravens - 24 / Bengals - 21
