Ravens run offense vs. Browns run defense: : Willis McGahee, who isn't listed on the injury report, is expected to play in his first game, but the Ravens have yet to define his role. The Ravens probably will go with a running back by committee that will include rookie Ray Rice and fullback-tailback Le'Ron McClain. The key matchup is Ravens center Jason Brown against Cleveland nose tackle Shaun Rogers, one of the most dominant interior linemen in the NFL. In two games, the Browns have allowed 4.6 yards per carry and three touchdowns on the ground. EDGE: EVEN:
Ravens pass offense vs. Browns pass defense: : The Ravens likely won't ask too much from rookie quarterback Joe Flacco, who threw 29 times in his first career game. It'll be interesting to see whether Flacco can take advantage of a Browns secondary that has looked vulnerable this season. Cleveland has allowed quarterbacks to complete 70 percent of their passes and average 9.9 yards per pass attempt. The Ravens are expected to rotate their tackles with Willie Anderson, Adam Terry and Jared Gaither. They have to keep track of Kamerion Wimbley, Cleveland's best pass-rushing threat coming off the edge. EDGE: BROWNS:
Browns run offense vs. Ravens run defense: : This will mark the third meeting between the Ravens and Jamal Lewis, who is the team's all-time leading rusher. Lewis, who signed with the Browns last season, gained 64 yards in the first game and 92 yards in the second. He scored one touchdown each time. Lewis has gotten off to a slow start this season, averaging 3.1 yards per carry. The Ravens' run defense won't be as strong without nose tackle Kelly Gregg, who is out at least two weeks with a knee injury. But the Ravens haven't allowed a 100-yard rusher in 20 games, the NFL's longest current streak. EDGE: RAVENS:
Browns pass offense vs. Ravens pass defense: : Browns quarterback Derek Anderson, who has a 57.1 quarterback rating, has been hampered by drops and injuries. Wide receiver Braylon Edwards, who is questionable with a shoulder injury, has as many drops (five) as catches this season. The No. 2 receiver, Donte' Stallworth, is expected to miss his third straight game with a quadriceps injury. The Ravens' secondary dominated Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer in the opener, but it has traditionally had lapses against Anderson. There could be an issue at nickel back, where Corey Ivy (probable, ankle) and Fabian Washington (doubtful, neck) are hurt. EDGE: EVEN:
