Basics
Kickoff: Noon, Saturday, M&T Bank Stadium
TV: WBAL Channel 11 (Baltimore), WJLA Channel 7 (Washington). WGAL Channel 8 (York/Lancaster/Harrisburg), WWCW Channel 21 (Roanoke, Va.), WUPV Channel 65 (Richmond), WTVZ Channel 33, (Norfolk); WMDT Channel 47 (Delmarva), and more. Ravens crew Gerry Sandusky (play-by-play), Rod Woodson (analyst), Evan Washburn (sideline)
Radio: WBAL 1090 AM/101.5 FM; 98 Rock (97.9 FM), TV simulcast
History
Baltimore leads the all-time preseason series, 7-4, against the Falcons. They haven't met in the preseason since 2015 when the Falcons won, 20-19, in Atlanta. Justin Tucker kicked two field goals in that game for the Ravens. Former Ravens outside linebacker Matthew Judon will be making his first trip back to M&T Bank Stadium, now as a recent member of the Falcons.
Key Storylines
How much will this game help determine the starting offensive line for Week 1?
Head Coach John Harbaugh has not named the starting offensive line for Week 1, so the competition up front continues. Andrew Vorhees remains the strong favorite to win the job at left guard, but this is a key game for right guard Daniel Faalele and rookie right tackle Roger Rosengarten. Ben Cleveland could make his second straight preseason start at center as he battles to be the backup to Tyler Linderbaum. Other offensive linemen such as Sala Aumavae-Laulu, Josh Jones and Tashawn Manning are trying to solidify where they stand in the offensive line pecking order. With beloved Offensive Line Coach Joe D'Alessandris away for medical reasons, New Offensive Line Coach George Warhop will get his first look at the offensive line in game conditions.
Will David Ojabo suit up?
Ravens outside linebacker David Ojabo is getting stronger in practice, looking more like his former self following last season's knee injury. Ojabo wasn't cleared to play in last week's preseason game, but will he be ready this time? The Ravens would like to see their talented pass rusher get more game reps.
Will the Ravens have a sharper offensive performance?
It's the preseason, but the Ravens expect to play with more precision than they showed in their 16-13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last week. Baltimore had six straight three-and-outs at one point and only reached the red zone twice. The Ravens were 2-for-12 on third down conversions and the wide receivers weren't always on the same page with the quarterbacks. A stronger showing would help the Ravens build momentum as the regular season moves closer.
Players to Watch
RB Owen Wright
Wright was Baltimore's leading rusher (seven carries, 33 yards) in the preseason opener, and he also had a 17-yard catch. Rookie running back Rasheen Ali (stinger) is unlikely to play after not practicing all week. Wright benefitted from last year's stint on the practice and could be ready to seize the moment.
TE Qadir Ismail
The son of former Ravens wide receiver Qadry Ismail had an impressive touchdown catch in Thursday's final training camp practice. The Ravens are extremely deep at tight end, but Ismail has made an impressive switch from wide receiver looks poised to take advantage if he gets targets against the Falcons.
ILB Trenton Simpson
With Chris Board (concussion) not practicing Thursday, Simpson could be one of the few starters who sees significant action. Simpson led the Ravens will 11 tackles last week and said he benefitted from the experience. This game could be more preparation for Simpson as he gets ready to assume a starting role next to All-Pro Roquan Smith.
