Today, 4:05 p.m.--Cleveland Browns Stadium--Chs. 13, 9 -- Line: Ravens by 6 1/2
Ravens run offense vs. Browns run defense
The Browns have struggled against the run this season, giving up more than 150 yards on the ground against the New Orleans Saints and Cincinnati Bengals. But much of the Bengals' yards were gained when Cleveland was not playing 365-pound nose tackle Ted Washington, who will make it tough for the Ravens to run inside. Ravens running back Jamal Lewis has not gotten on track yet, failing to crack 80 yards in his first two games. He has averaged 71.5 yards in four games against the Browns since gaining more than 200 in each of two meetings in 2003. Browns defensive end Orpheus Roye (shoulder) could be replaced by backup nose tackle Ethan Kelley.
Edge: Even
Ravens pass offense vs. Browns pass defense
Because quarterback Steve McNair has not been able to stretch the field, defenses are stacking the box and jumping on the Ravens' short and intermediate routes. McNair's yards-per-attempt average (5.4) is worse than Kyle Boller's rookie season average (5.6). The Ravens have to capitalize on the matchup between receiver Mark Clayton and cornerback Ralph Brown, who is replacing injured starter Gary Baxter. Brown was repeatedly picked on as a nickel back last week against Cincinnati. Left tackle Jonathan Ogden is questionable with a hyperextended right knee, but the Browns have not put consistent pressure on quarterbacks the first two games.
Edge: Even
Browns run offense vs. Ravens run defense
The key here is whether Reuben Droughns, a formidable power back, will play. He is listed as questionable with sore shoulder, leaving the Browns with two inexperienced options if he can't go. Rookie Jerome Harrison and second-year back Jason Wright have combined for 17 career carries. The Ravens have completely shut down the run, allowing 1.7 yards a carry. The next-best defense is the Seattle Seahawks, who are giving up 2.8 yards a carry. Nose tackle Kelly Gregg faces Hank Fraley, the Browns' fourth center since the start of training camp.
Edge: Ravens
Browns pass offense vs. Ravens pass defense
