Uncertainty surrounds the Bills as they open the season at Baltimore. There's probably more uncertainty around the Bills than around other teams, as quarterback Nathan Peterman hasn't proven himself as a capable starting quarterback, and the offensive line is also unproven.
The Ravens wield one of the NFL's top quarterbacks in Joe Flacco, but he has to work with a new group of receivers, so offensive production could be at a premium for either team. Expect Baltimore's defense to dictate this game; the Ravens return all of their defensive starters from a team that regularly contends for the AFC North championships.
Key 1 - Nathan Peterman must protect the ball. I know it sounds simple but this is a defense that led the league in interceptions last year with 22. We don't need to rehash his first start in L.A. last year because we all know about happened but he can't get deja vu against this group.
Key 2 - The Bills offensive line must step up. I just mentioned it but coming off that performance against the Bengals is not a good look. You know that caught the attention of the Ravens pass rushers who are no joke. Guys like Terrell Suggs is going to be in Peterman's face all day if the line can't hold up regardless of how quick he can get the ball out.
Key 3 - Since the Bills secondary is once again a strength, I'm not concerned about that. On defense, what I am watching is if they can stop the run. That was a big problem last year and they'll be tested with Ravens running back Alex Collins.
Ravens CB Jimmy Smith
*suspended first 4 games
*Ravens with Smith:
? 41.7% success (#4)
? 4.53% Int rate (#1)
? 76.1 passer rtg (#1)
*Ravens without Smith:
? 47.9% success (#29)
? 1.53% Int rate (#31)
? 91.5 passer rtg (#18)
The Ravens wield one of the NFL's top quarterbacks in Joe Flacco, but he has to work with a new group of receivers, so offensive production could be at a premium for either team. Expect Baltimore's defense to dictate this game; the Ravens return all of their defensive starters from a team that regularly contends for the AFC North championships.
Key 1 - Nathan Peterman must protect the ball. I know it sounds simple but this is a defense that led the league in interceptions last year with 22. We don't need to rehash his first start in L.A. last year because we all know about happened but he can't get deja vu against this group.
Key 2 - The Bills offensive line must step up. I just mentioned it but coming off that performance against the Bengals is not a good look. You know that caught the attention of the Ravens pass rushers who are no joke. Guys like Terrell Suggs is going to be in Peterman's face all day if the line can't hold up regardless of how quick he can get the ball out.
Key 3 - Since the Bills secondary is once again a strength, I'm not concerned about that. On defense, what I am watching is if they can stop the run. That was a big problem last year and they'll be tested with Ravens running back Alex Collins.
Ravens CB Jimmy Smith
*suspended first 4 games
*Ravens with Smith:
? 41.7% success (#4)
? 4.53% Int rate (#1)
? 76.1 passer rtg (#1)
*Ravens without Smith:
? 47.9% success (#29)
? 1.53% Int rate (#31)
? 91.5 passer rtg (#18)
