Dan's take:
In a crucial game with numerous playoff implications, the key here will be the play inside the 20-yard line. Baltimore has thrived in that category for most of the season but struggled of late, while New England is riding a below-grade average on the whole. The defense that can force the field goals (which are pretty much givens at this point considering the kickers) and avoid the goal-line breaches will give its offense a hearty shot at victory and control of the clock. Look for running back Ray Rice to have a breakout game against a sub-par run defense, and the Ravens' pass defense to pick up the rest of the slack.
Prediction: Ravens 22, Patriots 17
Prediction: Ravens 22, Patriots 17
Sean's take:
The Ravens beat the Patriots twice last season, when Tom Brady still had Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Brandon Lloyd and Wes Welker in his arsenal. Now, he'll need to beat a hot Baltimore team with an inferior supporting cast, but New England often finds a way to bridge the talent gap with superior game-planning. The Ravens' coaching staff will be prepared as well, but the Patriots manage to cap Joe Flacco and the passing attack while putting up points against a hot Baltimore defense. A couple timely turnovers key a big New England road victory.
The Ravens beat the Patriots twice last season, when Tom Brady still had Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Brandon Lloyd and Wes Welker in his arsenal. Now, he'll need to beat a hot Baltimore team with an inferior supporting cast, but New England often finds a way to bridge the talent gap with superior game-planning. The Ravens' coaching staff will be prepared as well, but the Patriots manage to cap Joe Flacco and the passing attack while putting up points against a hot Baltimore defense. A couple timely turnovers key a big New England road victory.
Prediction: Patriots 34, Ravens 28
Nick's take:
The momentum-building Ravens are a team no one wants to play in the playoffs, let alone in December. Baltimore's fast defense will give the Patriots' in-motion offensive line fits, but Tom Brady finds a way. Running back Shane Vereen continues to be New England's Swiss Army back, and New England takes another step closer to securing a top-two seed.
Prediction: Patriots 24, Ravens 21
