SCOUTING REPORT
Ravens run offense vs. Titans run defense -- RAVENS
The Ravens' ground game - ranked 17th in the league - remains the strength of the offense but has been woefully inconsistent. In the Ravens' past five games, running back Jamal Lewis has run for more than 100 yards twice and has been held under 50 the other three times. Although the Titans rank 11th in run defense, few teams have tested them because Tennessee drops a safety down for run support. Tennessee has allowed just one 100-yard rusher, but that might be a product of only four teams rushing more than 25 times in a game against the Titans. The key for the Ravens is using big plays in the passing game to open up the running attack. In place of injured Randall Godfrey, the Titans will start rookie Rocky Calmus at middle linebacker.
Key stat: 68. Average yards rushing by Lewis in three games against the Titans in 2000.
Ravens pass offense vs. Titans pass defense -- TITANS
The biggest concern is how the Ravens' recently shaky pass protection can handle Tennessee's rush. The Ravens catch a break with end Jevon Kearse (foot) expected to miss his 10th straight game. But Ravens right tackle Ethan Brooks still has to hold his own against powerful end Kevin Carter, who is third in the AFC with seven sacks. Tennessee's attacking defensive style leaves its secondary vulnerable to deep throws, but Ravens quarterback Jeff Blake has only six completions over 20 yards in four starts. With Brandon Stokley doubtful and Travis Taylor matched up against cornerback Samari Rolle, the Ravens need tight end Todd Heap or rookie receivers Ron Johnson and Javin Hunter to make an impact.
Key stat: 15. Sacks allowed by the Ravens in their past three games.
Titans run offense vs. Ravens run defense -- EVEN
With the league's 13th-ranked run defense, the Ravens have allowed consecutive 100-yard rushers, but they have owned Eddie George. The Titans running back is averaging 2.8 yards a carry in his past eight meetings. But the Ravens don't have massive run stuffers like Sam Adams and Tony Siragusa anymore, and inside linebackers Ray Lewis and Ed Hartwell are questionable with injuries. Lewis could miss his sixth game in seven weeks, so Bernardo Harris is likely to start. The Ravens seem more worried about containing quarterback Steve McNair, who has dangerous scrambling ability.
Key stat: 7. Rushing touchdowns allowed by the Ravens in their past five games.
