Ravens vs. Raiders: Mike Preston's key matchups

Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Raiders MLB Kirk Morrison

Morrison is the kind of linebacker Birk, above, likes to see in the middle. This is a matchup of speed. Morrison runs sideline-to-sideline well but has problems with inside, power-running games. Birk is quick and has good speed but has trouble sustaining blocks for long periods of time against bigger defensive linemen and linebackers who can only play from tackle to tackle. Edge: Birk

Ravens RT Michael Oher or Oniel Cousins vs. Raiders DE Richard Seymour

The Ravens might use any of three players at right offensive tackle. Regardless, it will be a tough matchup going against Seymour, above. Both Oher and Cousins got worked over last week against the Pittsburgh Steelers as far as pass protection, so they'll be looking to rebound. Seymour has had a strong season and is a threat as both a run stopper and pass rusher. Edge: Seymour

Ravens WRs Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton vs. Raiders CB Chris Johnson

Johnson gets picked on a lot because teams stay away from Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha. That means both Mason and Clayton will have chances for big plays against the Raiders. Mason always turns in a consistent game, but Clayton, above, has a habit of disappearing from big games. If he doesn't come up with a few receptions against Johnson, there will be no more games for the Ravens to play. Edge: Clayton and Mason