SCOUTING REPORT
Ravens run offense vs. Bengals run defense -- RAVENS
Going against the second-worst run defense in the league, the Ravens likely will not ignore running back Jamal Lewis for three quarters the way they did last week. In three career games against Cincinnati, Lewis has gained 100 yards each time, averaging 120 per meeting. When Lewis cracks 78 yards, the Ravens are 13-1 all-time. The Bengals gamble up front with a lot of stunts, stuffing the run or giving up big gains. It's mostly been the latter this season as Cincinnati surrenders an average of 139.3 yards on the ground. Key stat: 23.4. Average carries by Lewis in the Ravens' five victories, compared to 16.1 in six losses.
Ravens pass offense vs. Bengals pass defense -- EVEN
Cincinnati's ranking as the 10th-best pass defense is skewed by the fact that most of its opponents don't pass because they have so much success running the ball. The key will be whether the Bengals' safeties bite on the Ravens' play-action, which would provide some big-play chances. Ravens quarterback Jeff Blake has struggled lately -- compounded by dropped passes and shaky pass protection -- and can't get caught up in his return to Cincinnati. In his first game against the Bengals, Blake stayed within the conservative system, completing 16 of 24 passes for 183 yards in his best start as a Raven. With Travis Taylor inconsistent and Brandon Stokley out for the season, the 31st-ranked passing team might look to create some opportunities downfield for tight end Todd Heap despite the constant double teams.
Key stat: 15.4. Percent of third downs converted by the Ravens the past two weeks (4-for-26).
Bengals run offense vs. Ravens run defense -- BENGALS
The Ravens have to figure out a way to contain Bengals running back Corey Dillon. After being dominated by the Ravens for years, Dillon has recorded back-to-back 100-yard rushing games against them. The AFC's fifth-leading rusher, Dillon has averaged 96.8 yards in his past five games. But the Ravens know if they can control Dillon early, he has a tendency to quit against them. For once, the injury status of All-Pro linebacker Ray Lewis -- who was placed on injured reserve last week -- won't be hanging over the Ravens' heads.
Key stat: 10.6. Average tackles by Ravens inside linebacker Ed Hartwell in games without Ray Lewis.
Bengals pass offense vs. Ravens pass defense -- RAVENS
