Ravens and Bengals match up in what looks to be the#1 vs #2 teams in the AFC North. On paper, the Bengals look like Superbowl contenders, just like they have for the past few years. Something is just missing from that team that prevents them from going over the top. After a terrific season in 2013, they go out and get dominated in Cincinnati by the San Diego Chargers in the Wild Card round. This current core of Bengals, inconceivably, have yet to win a playoff game! Now, they have replaced both coordinators, in an attempt to find the elusive final piece of the puzzle.
The Bengals are dangerous. Their strength seems to play into the weakness of the Ravens. Baltimore is hurting at the corners right now. Both Webb and Jimmy Smith are coming off pre-season injuries. This week, they will have the tall task of stopping Daulton-Green.
However, here is what makes the decision for me. September in Baltimore. The Ravens are 6-0 in their home openers in the Harbaugh-Flacco era and are 11-0 at home in September. Say what you will about Harbaugh, but his teams come ready to play early in the season. Over all, the Ravens have won their last 8 home openers in a row and have won their last 14 September home games in a row. Those are some real impressive numbers. Ones that I simply will not go against.
Ravens find a way to win this game. I absolutely love the addition of Gary Kubiak as OC. The offensive line has been majorly upgraded. I see a 10-6 year for Baltimore, 6-2 at Home and 4-4 on the road. That should get them into the playoffs one way or another.
Play: Ravens M/L -128
