Baltimore Ravens @ Oakland Raiders preview
The Baltimore Ravens (8-7) control their own destiny when it comes to the playoffs, and just need to beat the Oakland Raiders (5-10) to get in. It should be an easy win for the Ravens, but they need to come out and play like it is a playoff game or the Raiders could upset them and their playoff hopes. The Ravens need to stop all of their penalties, as they lead the league in penalty yards (1,057 yards). Flacco and the offense should not have any problem with the Raiders defense, but they cannot turn the ball over and keep them in the Raiders in the game. If they can limit their penalties, take care of the ball, and limit the Raiders’ big plays they will find themselves in the playoffs. If they don’t, the Raiders are capable of making some plays that could result in the Raiders losing.
Charlie Frye is likely the starting quarterback for the Raiders, and he can be awful at times. If the Ravens defense can pressure Frye, he will turn the ball over. The Raiders have some speedy receivers though, so the Ravens cannot get beat deep and give up big plays. The deep ball is one of the few things the Raiders can do well and it is probably the only thing that can keep them in the game against the Ravens. The Ravens have so much on the line that I think they will come out with intensity and will be on top of their game.
PREDICTION: Baltimore Ravens 27, Oakland Raiders 13
