Sit back, relax and maybe get a manicure.
There won't be any fingernail biting this weekend, as the Ravens are on their bye.
But there are still some interesting games that Ravens fans should watch, as they could affect Baltimore's standing.
Neighborly Love: Washington at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.
As much as they may not want to, Baltimoreans should be pulling for their neighbors to the south. The Steelers (3-3) would close to just one game behind the Ravens if they beat the Redskins (3-4). That would tighten the AFC North race in a major way. Can the aging Steelers defense keep up with Washington rookie phenom quarterback Robert Griffin III?
Mixed Interests: San Diego at Cleveland, 1 p.m.
This one's a tougher call. On one hand it's always nice to see an AFC North foe go down, and having the Chargers rough up the Browns (Baltimore's next opponent) wouldn't be bad either. On the other hand, the Browns (1-6) aren't yet in a position to challenge Baltimore in the standings. San Diego (3-3), however, will likely be in the playoff picture. A Cleveland win could help the Ravens secure a wild-card playoff spot down the road – if it came to that.
You Never Know: New England at St. Louis, 1 p.m.
Pushing the Patriots further down the standings is always a good thing, especially when they're facing an NFC team. On paper, the Rams (3-4) are definitely the underdogs. But the Patriots (4-3) lost to the NFC West Seattle Seahawks on the road earlier this year.
The Only Good Late Afternoon Game: Oakland at Kansas City, 4:05 p.m.
In terms of pure entertainment, the New York Giants versus Dallas game in this timeslot is probably better. But in terms of Ravens interest, this AFC West showdown provides an advance scouting opportunity. The Ravens will take on Oakland (2-4) in their next home game in Week 10.
A Fun One: New Orleans at Denver, 8:20 p.m.
Drew Brees vs. Peyton Manning. That should provide some fireworks on Sunday Night Football. Brees recently broke Colts great Johnny Unitas' consecutive games with a touchdown record. Manning has been a thorn in the Ravens' side for years. Root for Manning to fall, as it's always better to see NFC teams knock off other AFC squads. The Broncos (3-3) are in first place in the AFC West.
