The Ravens and Jackson face the Saints and Dalton under the lights on Monday Night Football. Not a lot separates these two teams in stats, although the Ravens have faced much stiffer defenses. The Ravens' addition of Roquan Smith also adds a solid component to their defense. The Saints completely shut down the hapless Raiders last week but the same team gave up 42 points to the Cardinals the week before.
Both teams could be described as run-first, and here the Ravens' defense have the edge. They are 5th against the run, allowing just 80 yards a game in their last three starts. The Ravens do give up more passing yards than the Saints, but Baltimore is tougher in pass pressure and much stronger in creating takeaways, significant this week because Dalton and the Saints do turn the ball over more frequently. The Ravens have two solid run options and Lamar, plus an uptick in passing yards last week. Not to underestimate Kamara and Hill, but they and Dalton will have a tougher time moving the ball this week.
Look for big Prime-time games from Smith and Jackson, and a Saints' regression tonight. Take the Ravens to win and cover.