The Ravens (3-2) are undefeated on the road this season and hope to continue that trend Sunday against the Giants at MetLife Stadium.
New York (4-1) may be the NFL's biggest surprise, and the presence of former Ravens Defensive Coordinator Wink Martindale on the Giants' sideline adds extra emotion to the game. Â
Here are my thoughts heading into the game, all in 50 words or less:
Marcus Peters wears gold cleats and plays to a gold standard. His reaction to blowing up a trick play by the Bengals last week was priceless, and the energy he brings is infectious. Daniel Jones has only thrown two picks this season, but better be careful throwing at Peters.
Jason Pierre-Paul has quickly become an important part of Baltimore's defense, playing 100 snaps in two games with a sack and six tackles. Pierre-Paul has downplayed the significance of facing the Giants, the team he spent eight seasons with. But he'll be ready for this one. Watch out Jones.
Blitzing often and creatively has helped Wink Martindale become a superb defensive coordinator. I can't imagine him facing Lamar Jackson and not blitzing a lot. Based on how Jackson attacked Miami's blitz in Week 2, I think he's ready for it.
Nobody was talking about Geno Stone after the Ravens signed Marcus Williams and drafted Kyle Hamilton. Now Stone is likely to start at safety in wake of Williams' dislocated wrist. Stone is tough with a nose for the football. This is his chance to seize an opportunity.
Too many players and coaches have complained about the playing surface at MetLife Sunday, where Ja'Wuan James and Kyle Fuller suffered season-ending injuries in Week 1. Here's hoping that both teams get through Sunday's game healthy.Â
Greg Roman said All-Pro left tackle Ronnie Stanley will play more than he did Week 5 against the Bengals. Playing only his second game in two years, Stanley didn't look hesitant at all. It's been a long road back, but Stanley looks ready to rock.
Patrick Mekari's ability to play all five offensive line positions like a starter makes him one of the team's most respected players. Once Stanley gets up to full speed, Mekari will stay ready to fill in again wherever's he needed. He's an unsung but important player.Â
Containing Saquon Barkley is easier said than done, which is why the Ravens have preached 'swarming Saquon' all week. Baltimore's run defense will be tested severely, as will their open field tackling. Barkley's going to get singles, but they must avoid the missed tackles that lead to home runs.
If the Ravens win Sunday, they'll have one more victory at MetLife Stadium this season than they have at M&T Bank Stadium. The Ravens aren't happy about dropping two home games, but winning a third straight home game could get them started on a roll.
The Giants have six fumble recoveries and will be looking for more, with Martindale surely having his defense fired up Sunday. Being opportunistic has helped the Giants to their fast start. But I love the Ravens' chances if they win the turnover battle.
