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Ravens vs. Colts analysis
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Ravens run offense vs. Colts run defense
The Ravens have played the Colts several times recently, and each time it appears they would have a huge edge with their rushing attack against that soft run defense. However, every time we come away stunned with how well the Colts stuffed the run and, ultimately, won the game.
This year could be different, if only because the Ravens have a better offensive line, more depth at running back and the Colts are desperately missing safety Bob Sanders coming up in run support. If the Ravens can't run the ball this time around against the Colts, I'm really at a loss.
Edge: Ravens
Ravens pass offense vs. Colts pass defense
The Colts pass defense isn't anything to write home about, but neither is the Ravens passing game. After making significant strides against a stingy Pittsburgh defense, Joe Flacco and the rest of the offense struggled to do much of anything against Tennessee.
The biggest matchup here might be Jared Gaither lining up against Dwight Freeney, who even gave invincible Jonathan Ogden trouble at times. The Ravens will likely be forced to put a tight end over on the left side of the line to help out Gaither.
Edge: Colts
Colts run offense vs. Ravens run defense
Indianapolis has struggled to get its running game going this year because of injuries to the offensive line. Running back Joseph Addai has run better recently behind a line that is getting healthier, but it will be tough sledding against the No. 2 run defense in the NFL.
The Colts will run the ball, but not effectively, and only to try and feature a balanced offense.
Edge: Ravens
Colts pass offense vs. Ravens pass defense
The Colts have not had the type of explosive passing game this year that we have come to expect. Quarterback Peyton Manning still doesn't seem 100 percent following knee surgery, the pass protection hasn't been as solid because of the injuries and wide receiver Marvin Harrison is no longer the threat he once was.
However, the Ravens will once again be dealing with significant injuries in the secondary, as Dawan Landry, Samari Rolle and Fabian Washington will all be in street clothes. Anthony Gonzalez should be healthy enough to play. Look for him to have a big day.
Edge: Colts
Special teams
If there has been one really disappointing aspect for the Ravens this year, it's been the play of the special teams. The coverage units have been solid, but the return game has been non-existent.
Matt Stover has been awful this year and has arguably been one of the primary reasons the Ravens are only 2-2. His counterpart, Adam Vinatieri, hasn't been perfect with the Colts but is still considered the most clutch kicker in the game.
Edge: Colts
Intangibles
The Ravens are coming off of two physical, heartbreaking losses and now facing one of many upcoming road games. Injuries are slowly piling up, and you have to wonder how this team responds.
The Colts are 0-2 in their new home, so they will certainly be looking to notch that first win. They also have a lot of confidence against the Ravens, having beaten them the past four times, including two wins on the road.
Edge: Even
Prediction
This game could really go a number of ways, but the Ravens need to prove they can run the ball against the Colts before I jump onboard. There is no reason they can't run it down their throats, other than that they have been inexplicably unable to do so in the past. Colts 16, Ravens 13.
For more info: http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/
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