Basics
Kickoff: 1 p.m., M&T Bank Stadium
TV: WJZ Channel 13 (Baltimore), CBS crew (Kevin Harlan, Rich Gannon, Jay Feely)
Radio: WBAL (1090AM/101.5 FM) & 98Rock (97.9 FM). Ravens crew (Gerry Sandusky, Jarret Johnson, Kirk McEwen).
Jersey color: Purple
Stakes
Playing their third straight divisional game, the Ravens look to remain in first place in the AFC North. Cincinnati would love to get its first win under first-year Head Coach Zac Taylor.
History
The all-time series is tied, 23-23, and the season series has been split the past three years. In their last meeting, the Ravens won, 24-21, in Lamar Jackson's first start. He ran a career-high 26 times for 119 yards and completed 13 of 19 passes for 150 yards and one interception. Gus Edwards made his first start at running back and had a big day with 17 carries for 115 yards.
Key Storylines
Can the Bengals slow down the Ravens' running attack?
Baltimore is averaging 167.6 rushing yards per game, the most potent ground attack in the AFC. The Bengals have the NFL's second-worst run defense, allowing 192.2 rushing yards per game. A steady diet of Mark Ingram II, Gus Edwards and Jackson's running ability could give Cincinnati issues.
Will Baltimore's pass rush harass Andy Dalton?
Getting to the quarterback hasn't been easy for the Ravens, who have just one sack in each of the last two games. However, Dalton has been sacked 20 times, more than any quarterback except Marcus Mariota (22) and Kyler Murray (21). Dalton often plays well against the Ravens, but his day will be more difficult if he's under duress. Dalton is also without his starting and backup left tackles due to injuries.
Can Lamar Jackson avoid turnovers?
Jackson doesn't like talking about turnovers, nor does he like committing them. But after having the NFL's longest streak without an interception, Jackson has been picked off five times in the last two games. Against a Cincinnati team looking for its first win, Jackson needs to avoid mistakes that can give the Bengals a spark.
Key Matchups
Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey vs. Bengals WR Tyler Boyd
Humphrey has emerged as one of the NFL's top cornerbacks while Boyd (37 catches, 406 yards) is on pace for a 1,300-yard season and has a history of big plays against Baltimore. No doubt the Bengals will want to get Boyd heavily involved, which could mean another busy day for Humphrey. He was one of the heroes last weekend when his forced fumble and recovery in overtime set up the victory against Pittsburgh.
OLBs Matthew Judon and Pernell McPhee vs. Bengals offensive line
Judon and McPhee lead the Ravens with three sacks apiece, and Cincinnati's offensive line will be without starting left tackle Cordy Glenn (concussion)Â and his backup Andre Smith (ankle). The Ravens may seize an opportunity to get after Dalton.
Ravens RB Mark Ingram II vs. Bengals run defense
Cincinnati struggles to stop the run and Ingram is averaging five yards per carry, with over 100 yards rushing in two of the last three games. The Ravens could look to set the tone by running Ingram early and often.
