NFL GridIron Gab Daily Digest

Thursday night at home the Steelers did exactly what they were supposed to do – pound a bad football team into submission. Because of the 27-3 win over the two-win Panthers, the Steelers are one win away of getting the first round bye they sorely need, and also winning their third division title in four seasons.

The Steelers didn’t give the Panthers room to breathe after Carolina started the game with an early drive that reached the Pittsburgh 32. Carolina decided to punt, and from there they never stood a chance.

Last season in a similar situation, the Steelers blew a game to the then 1-11 Browns on the road. This night they were not going to allow the Panthers to have visions of walking out of Heinz Field with an upset win that would have crushed the Steelers march to the postseason.

Ben Roethlisberger lead the Steelers offensive attack that was effective to the tune of three touchdown drives, two field goal drives, and not having to have Jeremy Kapinos punt till there was 3:44 left in the third quarter.

The Steelers QB set a personal record for passing yards in the first half, and ended the night with 320 yards on 22-for-32 passing with a touchdown and a QB rating of 111.5. He was helped with a solid night from the offensive line, and the return of tight end Heath Miller who had five grabs for 73 yards.

Mike Wallace had the best night of the WR core, with four catches for 104 yards with a 43-yard touchdown catch on a quick throw in the second quarter that gave the Steelers a commanding 10-0 lead with 10:16 left in the second quarter.

The offense had a big second quarter with two touchdown drives, a field goal drive and 191 total yards while the Panthers offense was held to one yard the entire quarter in four possessions.

Jimmy Clausen was punished for the Panthers, as the rookie QB never stood a chance against a Steelers defense that took out their anger after losing to the Jets Sunday. The former Notre Dame QB went just 10-for-23 for 72 yards. He was sacked four times for negative 27 yards, and also threw a pick that Bryant McFadden made in the 17-point Steelers second quarter.

The Panthers run game was also held in check, and Jonathan Stewart had a couple chunks of yards here and there, but the Panthers had just 74 yards on 22 carries, and none of the Stewart runs really hurt the Steelers at any time. Pittsburgh rushed for 115 yards on 33 carries, with Rashard Mendenhall running for 65 yards and a score.

There was not much that the Steelers didn’t do right in this beating. They outgained Carolina 408 to 119, had 21 first downs while holding the Panthers to 7, and they held the ball for 35:24 to 24:36 for the Panthers. It was a complete beating that is exactly what the team needed as they now sit back and wait 10 days before wrapping up the regular season in Cleveland.

It’s pretty basic what lies ahead for Pittsburgh. If the Browns can upset the Ravens, next weeks game vs the Browns means nothing. If Baltimore does what they should, which is beat the bad Browns, it will be up to Pittsburgh to make sure they take care of business against the Browns in order to clinch the division and the #2 seed in the AFC so they can get the all important bye and be one game away from the AFC Championship game.

John Skelton will make the Cowboys defense look good, Tim Hightower and Beanie Wells might get a few good runs in but the Cardinals are a two-man defense right now (Dockett, Rodgers-Cromartie) and Kitna has been rolling. Cowboys 29, Cardinals 13 (home).

I have to believe that Spagnuolo and his coordinators are better strategically in second match-ups than Singletary and his coordinators. That said, it’s one of the hardest games to pick because San Francisco is going to go down swinging. Rams 14 (home), 49ers 10.

The Bengals are reeling. They had high preseason hopes ravaged by injuries along with bad playcalling and quarterbacking, now Marvin Lewis and Ocho Cinco are fighting again (I thought the Bengals-Lewis-Ocho fighting reached its apex with Ocho punching Lewis in the face at halftime in the 2005 playoff loss to Pittsburgh). The Chargers will stay alive for one more week. Chargers 28, Bengals 17 (home). They won’t gain ground this week as…

The Chiefs are one of the most dangerous offenses in football. While Tennessee’s offense has played good the last two weeks, but their defense is 17th in turnovers forced and 21st in points allowed. That won’t cut it when facing Charlie Weis. Chiefs 42 (home), Titans 31.

If Mark Sanchez is streaky, he is on one of his good streaks. However, he is a game-time decision and I just get a bad feeling about Mark Brunell who had turnover problems in Washington. The Bears stop the run pretty well. The Jets absolutely snuffed out the run last week and are tied for 3rd in the NFL with 3.6 ypc allowed (the Bears are 6th with 3.8). I think this is the game Rex and Schottenheimer validate themselves as elite coaches. Talent-wise, the Jets are way ahead on offensive line, corner, and wide receiver. They are equal in pretty much all other areas with the Bears getting the slight nod this year on D-line with Jenkins out. I think the Jets will hit an extra level for their head coach. Of all the come-from-behind victories they’ve had, winning at Pittsburgh had to give them a major confidence boost. I think they get to Jay Cutler, the refs actually call holding on the Bears line, and the Jets win it in the 4th as long as Sanchez is playing. Jets 23, Bears 16 (home).

Drew Stanton has been one of the feel good stories of the year. A week ago, this match-up would have been considered an interesting one, since Miami was so horrible at home and Detroit had not won a road game since October 28th, 2007. But Detroit stole one in Tampa Bay and they may be playing for their coach’s job. Miami might be looking to make a play at Cowher. This is one of the hardest to pick because as much as the Dolphins offense has been struggling, nothing cures a passing game like playing Detroit. Dolphins 24 (home), Lions 21.

The Raiders are in uncharted terrain. This young team is filled with guys who’ve never been in a playoff race. I generally think 31 of the NFL teams are mentally tough (the Wade Phillips Cowboys teams were not), so I don’t think a team like Oakland would play tougher with more at stake, just with more desperation – which can help. Peyton’s been here, most of his weapons have been here, he’ll get it done against a feisty Raiders pass rush. Colts 31, Raiders 13 (home).

I want to believe Rex Grossman will play even better this week. I know, however, the Redskins defense struggles to stop anyone and now will be missing both Albert Haynesworth and Philip Daniels from their front. Rashad Jennings might make his first start but, at 6.8 ypc, that should only worry you if you have Mojo or you are facing Jennings in fantasy football. This is tough to pick because the Jags DO have one good corner but that shouldn’t stop Sexy Rexy from unleashing the dragon. Redskins 30, Jaguars 28 (home).

There is so much drama and so much at stake for the Giants and Packers this weekend, this is actually maybe even bigger than a playoff game. I say that because I see such flaws in several teams that are guaranteed to go to the playoffs – Atlanta, New England, and Chicago – that I think each of these teams could go deeper if they get in. The Saints would have to collapse for both to get in and I think Aaron Rodgers and the Packers pass defense – which is 3rd in yards allowed, 4th in TDs allowed and 5th in interceptions – will squeak this one out. It will be interesting to see if Rodgers will be hesitant to run now. I also think a slight coaching edge goes to McCarthy. Packers 34 (home), Giants 31.

THE REST (home teams in bold):

Patriots 56, Bills 24
Ravens 21, Browns 20
Buccaneers 24, Seahawks 21
Texans 35, Broncos 28
Eagles 21, Vikings 17

(Chris writes for Buccaneers Gab)

As it has seemed the past couple home games, the Steelers again started slow, but have since regained total control of the game as they lead the two-win Panthers 20-0 at the half. It should have been worse.

It was a half that belonged to Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger, as he went 16-for-23 for 259 yards with a touchdown and a QB rating of 121.5. He enjoyed having his starting TE back as well, as Heath Miller had a good first half, catching four passes for 58 yards. Mike Wallace had the biggest half, catching three passes for 98 yards including a 43-yard score.

The defense though has been the story, they got to Jimmy Clausen after they missed tackles on the first drive, and since then he hasn’t had time nor success doing much of anything. He was 7-for-15 for 55 yards with a pick, and the Panthers run game with Jonathan Stewart had just 33 yards on 12 carries, a 2.8 yards per carry average.

At 20-0, it would be hard to think this being much of a game in the second half. Then again, this is pretty much what it should have been from a two-win team taking on a Steelers team that is none too happy after losing Sunday at home against the Jets. They shouldn’t have to sweat this out, and should be able to walk away with a 34-0 win.

A lot can change when free agency begins after the Super Bowl, but us Vikings fans have already began to cast our gaze towards the future, so what is the harm in participating in a little early speculation?

Below are five offensive players that could be hitting the free agent market this offseason that I think could greatly help this struggling Vikings offense.  Of course, I'm not saying the Vikings could sign all five or would want to or anything like that… I'm just giving you five guys that this hack blogger would like to see join the team.

You will notice that there are no quarterbacks on this list.  That is more of a testament to the poor free agent class than anything, as it is clear that quarterback should be the team's top priority in the offseason.

MIKE TOLBERT, FULLBACK, AGE 25

The Vikings current starting fullback is Fahu Tahi, but his unimpressive outings combined with it being his contract year could spell the end for Tahi.  Depending on the CBA, and whether or not Mike Tolbert ends up being restricted or not, this is a nose-to-grindstone type of player that I would love to see the Vikings get to replace Tahi.  This young bowling ball made me jealous all season long.  His adequate blocking skills, running productivity (737 yards, 11 TDs), and even receiving skills (25 catches, 216 yards) make him a threat from the fullback position which is rare.  He has a toughness and attitude about him that a team can really rally around.

ZACH MILLER, TIGHT END, AGE 25

This is another guy that might end up being restricted, but if the Raiders let him walk then a lot of teams should want to sign him.  He doesn't get the credit he deserves because of what Oakland's quarterback situation has been in his four seasons there, but I consider him one of the best tight ends in the NFL.  In just under four seasons Miller used his toughness and sure hands to notch over 2,500 yards and 11 touchdowns.  Now that he is hitting his prime, he could team up with Visanthe Shiancoe to provide any rookie quarterback with a pair of solid targets.

SANTANA MOSS, WIDE RECEIVER, AGE 32

Despite the poor quarterback situations the Jets and Redskins have had when Santana Moss was on the roster, he has produced over 700 yards and three touchdowns in eight straight seasons.  He is only a few more yards away in 2010 from notching his fourth career 1,000 yard season.  He is fast, generally sure handed, and is a consistent threat.  Moss might be getting up there in age, but putting him on the field with Rice and Harvin might be a perfect fit when it comes to consistency and balance.  Essentially, Moss has proven time and again that he is capable of doing everything we had hoped Berrian could.

CARL NICKS, GUARD, AGE 26

Want to know why the Vikings kicked off this season with a loss to New Orleans?  Go back and watch Jahri Evans and Carl Nicks absolutely dominate the WilliamsWall.  Nicks may not get the attention that Evans does, but he is one mean offensive lineman.  I like Anthony Herrera, but his injury and poor performances won't help him keep a job if/when a new coach comes around, and this offensive line needs some major help.  Logan Mankins will be the top guard sought after this free agency, but if Nicks makes it there, he might be a better fit for the Vikings.  He is younger than Mankins and plays on the right side, which is where the Vikes could use some help.

RYAN KALIL, CENTER, AGE 26

John Sullivan improved this year at center despite his injuries, but if the Vikings can get the best center in this year's free agency class, Ryan Kalil of Carolina, then that will be a major upgrade.  Kalil is a leader on the field and a vocal leader off the field.  He's big, young, smart, and very gifted.  Adrian Peterson would enjoy having this guy paving the middle, while our (hopefully) new, young quarterback will enjoy improved pass protection.

Overall, these players do not represent the sexy pickups of Mike Vick or Terrell Owens, but could help upgrade parts of the offense that showed in 2010 that they desperately need it.  While Santana Moss represents a veteran presence in a receiving group that might benefit from just that, the rest of these guys are young and could be with the team for a long, long time.

For those that want to vent and have their voices heard during tonight’s Panthers-Steelers Thursday night matchup, head on over to SteelersGab, as an open thread was just posted for the game where fans can go back and forth and talk about the game, the good and the bad, and even talk a little smack!

The thread can be found directly by clicking HERE

The hours following the Saints 30-24 loss have been somber in Who Dat Nation. Some fans are even referring to this postgame period as "mournful" and to themselves as "mourners". Even though the Saints aren't technically in any worse shape today than they were at the start of games yesterday (thanks to losses by NY Giants and Tampa Bay), many don't feel like celebrating or looking on the bright side.

Fingers are being pointed, as certainly there's plenty of blame to go around for the disappointing loss. But I've noticed that a lot of that blame is displaced. You wouldn't believe the fans who want to put all of this at the feet of Reggie Bush. Come on, people! Let's be real. Bush couldn't have done any more to affect the outcome of that game than you or I could have. In fact, if Bush, Thomas, and Jones had been utilized more, I do believe the outcome would've been very different.

For whatever reason, Coach Payton decided that it would be best to have Drew Brees drop back to pass down, after down, after down. Did no one pay attention to the tough, positive yardage Pierre Thomas picked up the few times he was allowed to touch the ball? Some blame the absence of Ivory for the decision to vacate the run, but Thomas was getting it done. Even the drive that eventually led to the tying touchdown, Payton used a mix of screens and passes to move the ball, making the attempt look almost effortless. Up until that game yesterday, the Saints had been very good in 3rd down conversions. But the three-and-outs ruled the day against the Ravens. Why? Because there was no offensive balance. In the majority of games where the Saints have not even tried to run the ball, they've come up short. It wasn't as though every time they tried to run it, they were stuffed. The run simply wasn't even given a chance to see if things could take off.

Don't get me wrong; Baltimore's defense played extremely well, while New Orleans' struggled mightily. But even with all the Saints' defensive shortcomings, they still kept the Ravens out of the endzone on their last three scoring drives. While their inability to even slow Ray Rice down hurt the Saints' chances of winning their seventh straight, it was not their undoing. To the defense's credit, they kept the game from becoming a blowout and gave their offense a chance to win it. And they didn't get it done.

In spite of it all, the Saints are still very much in the playoff hunt, even though they have virtually no chance of winning the division. They are still a very good football team. But unless all of the offensive weapons are used to their full potential, the Saints will continue to be at a disadvantage. The thing about the run game is that it takes pressure off the quarterback and allows some things to open up vertically. Not every rush is going to result in positive yardage just as every productive drive won't end in a touchdown. But, when defenses have to respect the run, the passing game gets a boost. And with all the talented receivers the Saints have, that gives them the upper hand every time.

If I could offer any advice, I'd preach balance, balance, balance. We have some excellent backs on the roster; let's use them in every way possible. If rushing from scrimmage is a no go, try the screen to Thomas because he's the best at it. Toss to Reggie Bush out in space because he's likely the fastest guy on the field. And you still have the luxury of handing off to Ivory and Jones who've both proven that they can run hard. As for the defense, it is what it is. There aren't many surprises there for me because they've been middle of the pack against the run all season long. And though it might not seem like it, they've really stiffened up when it counted.

To the fans I say, stop loathing certain players. They are all apart of a great team. They win as a team, they lose as a team. And it doesn't help when we start singling out players when things don't go the way we want them to. Believe me, we don't want them to win nearly as bad as they want to win. It's hurtful and unnecessary, so please stop it. We are their supporters and they depend on us to help them find a bright spot after a dark hour. So let's keep it positive going forward. Sometimes, what you say matters a whole lot whether you believe it or not.

Season Records:

Cardinals: 4-10, 4th in NFC West, Last Week: L @ Carolina, 19-12

Cowboys: 5-9, 3rd in NFC East, Last Week: W vs. Washington, 33-30

Gametime:

Sat., Dec. 25th, 7:30 pm, EST, NFL Network, University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ

The Future is not What it Was:

I’m sure when this game was scheduled everyone had a much different match up in mind. Dallas and Arizona were both division winners last year and finished well above 8-8, which would be a dream record for these two clubs this season. Nevertheless, the NFL world will have its eyes on the Cardinals and Cowboys on Christmas night. Although there’s basically no playoff intrigue here, these two teams always play each other tough.

The Cardinals, of course, are just looking to end the season on a positive note, but it’s hard to find a silver lining when the Cards have two touchdowns in their last four games. “I don’t necessarily think it is talent as much as it is we have a lot of young guys, new guys,” Ken Whisenhunt said. “There is a transition that we’re suffering through.”

Arizona’s offense is second worst in the league, only producing 268.5 yards per game. Larry Fitzgerald’s production has dropped sharply as a result of the Cardinals’ poor quarterback play. Despite the inconsistent passers under center this year for Arizona, Fitz only needs 14 yards to reach 1,000 for the fourth straight year. Fitzgerald has five touchdown receptions after amassing at least 10 each of the three previous years. Fitzgerald racked up league lead tying 13 touchdown receptions last season.

The Cardinals have most recently turned to John Skelton to fill the quarterback position over the past two weeks to some acclaim. Skelton, the Cardinals’ fifth-round pick out of Fordham, completed 17 of 33 passes for 196 yards in a 19-12 loss at Carolina last week. He threw his first NFL interception, which led to the Panthers’ lone touchdown. “I think the way he handled himself later in the game is reason to have a lot of optimism about him as a quarterback,” Whisenhunt said.

As for the Cowboys, interim head coach Jason Garrett has given Dallas some reason for optimism. The Cowboys, lead by backup turned starter Jon Kitna, is 4-2 over the past 6 games after starting the season 1-7 under Wade Phillips. Last week the Cowboys almost gave the game up when the squandered a 20 point lead against the Redskins, but took the game on a 39-yard field goal with 50 seconds remaining.

Garrett continues to audition for the permanent job, so he’s definitely going to have his team ready to play against the Cardinals, who have found motivation to be a problem over the second half of the season. “We have to improve in all areas,” Garrett said. “We’ve got to stop the run better, we’ve got to defend the pass better, we’ve got to prevent them from scoring better. We’ll continue to work on all those things.” Obviously, Garrett isn’t giving up a single game and has turned a tumultous situation in Dallas into a somewhat positive half a season.

In terms of injuries, the Cowboys are unsure of the statuses of safety Gerald Sensabaugh and rookie linebacker Sean Lee, both of whom are out with concussions. In addition, receiver Roy Williams (groin) and running back Marion Barber (calf) were inactive last week.

The Cardinals placed receiver Early Doucet on injured reserve with a hip injury Wednesday. It’s safe to say that the often injured Doucet has been a major disappointment this season. In addition, Joey Porter is questionable with a triceps injury.

Greg Jones, ILB, Michigan St., 6′1 240

Position ranking: #1

Strengths: Greg Jones has the athleticism that NFL teams covet at the linebacker position. He shows very good burst when releasing to pursue the ballcarrier. Quick footed and plays balanced when sifting and scraping away from potential blockers. Attacks the line of scrimmage on isolation runs with no hesitation. A clean wrap-up tackler who shows the propensity to quickly break down in space, square shoulders, wrap arms and drive inside to make sure tackles. Gap disciplined and shows very good key and diagnose recognition–Good instincts. Shows value as a pass rusher with good initial quickness off the line of scrimmage and a quick closing burst to get on top of the quarterback. Also shows a sharp spin move on outside pass rush. Jones shows good depth when asked to drop into zone coverage and looks to have the hips to turn and run with tight ends and tailbacks. A three year starter and leader of the defense.

Needs Improvement: Doesn’t have great size to stay inside at the pro level. Has worked to add weight from last season, but hasn’t improved strength enough in his upper body to consistently disengage from lineman. Depends on athleticism, needs to work on technique when taking on lineman, prefers to avoid front face contact. Has good but not great speed to get to the sideline and can be late at times to pursue from his inside containment. After initial momentum is stopped has a hard time getting himself back in the play. Will be overaggressive and overpursue or bite on the quick play-fake at times, but has shown improvement.

Bottom Line: Greg Jones is the best inside linebacker in what is shaping out to be an average class. He has improved every year that he’s played and shows small improvements game to game which is sure to impress teams about his work habits. Has the ideal combination of pure athleticism and instincts for the position but lacks the great strength and size we see from the elite inside linebackers at the NFL level. His skill set and abilities may be best suited as a weakside linebacker in a 4-3 where I believe he could flourish. Has upside as a pass rusher and can be a real weapon in this area if used correctly. Jones has stayed relatively healthy throughout his career despite his physical play. His coverage skills are above adequate and improving. A team will be glad to have Jones, and as long as he continues to stay healthy, he should be a long time starter in the NFL.

Draft projection: 2nd round

The Houston Texans take on the Denver Broncos this week in Denver in a battle of the disappointments.  While the Texans are loaded with talent, they find themselves yet again out of playoff contention for the fifth season under head coach Gary Kubiak.  While Arian Foster has two games left to claim the NFL rushing title, Andre Johnson (fourth with 1,216 receiving yards) also has time to catch Roddy White (first with 1,284 yards).  Additionally, the offensive line has done a great job for both Arian Foster and Matt Schaub.  

However, the team has yet to develop an identity.  Besides the well known play actions and passes on first and goal on the one, Gary Kubiak hasn't propelled the Texans out of mediocrity.  And his chance may not come this week.  The Broncos are changing styles.  They've let go head coach Josh McDaniels and are now starting Tim Tebow, the rookie quarterback out of Florida, for the second straight week.  Tebow's no Rusty Smith, and his effort last week against the Raiders (8/16 for 138 passing yards and a TD/8 rushes for 78 yards and a TD) shows he has the ability to keep a defense better than the Texans' on their heels.  However, look for the Texans to step up their game like they did they last time a rookie quarterback started against them.

The 3-11 Denver Broncos are trying to turn a new leaf and move on with their disappointing 2010 season.  Their offense ranks 14th, averaging 343 yards per game, and now that Tebow is starting and running back Knowshown Moreno is dealing with a side injury, the Texans will definitely be looking to pounce for a win, relying on more intuition than game tape.  Eric Studesville, the Broncos' interim head coach and former running back coach, hasn't done well since taking the Broncos job on December 6.  

The team is 0-2 since then but hope is a win away for this team.  Look for the defense that gave up a combined 88 points in the past two games to the Chiefs and Raiders to be looking as tasty as a rib eye roast to the Texans' offensive playmakers.  Arian Foster is reportedly fine after suffering a glute injury against the Titans this past Sunday.  Andre Johnson is now the Texans' longest playing player with 115 games, and he's only 84 receiving yards away from his third straight 1,300 yard season.

Although the Texans are making losing a habit, they'll be looking for the win Sunday.  Wide receivers like Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walter, running back Steve Slaton and tight end Owen Daniels have to be salty about their poor seasons.  Look for them to make the most out of their opportunities against the Broncos' defense that have allowed the most points this season with 415 (29 more than the Texans).  Also look for Arian Foster to be workign for a big day.  He leads the NFL with 1,345 rushing yards, and while Maurice Jones-Drew is a close second with 1,324 with two weeks to go, Foster's told the NFL Network that he'd be lying if he said the rushing title wasn't on his mind.

The Houston Texans and Denver Broncos have both been surprising disappointments this season.  While, in 2009, the Broncos pulled together a stellar win streak and a somewhat hopeful coached season and the Texans had a great December finish that showed Kubiak's potential, the Broncos and Texans have been flat out bad in 2010.  This year the Broncos let go their head coach Josh McDaniels and the Texans are being put to the edge with their own, who has led the team to seven losses out of the past eight games.  

However with such disappointment comes some hope.  One team's going to win the cool, high of 55 degrees, Sunday – will it be the hometown Denver Broncos and their rookie quarterback Tim Tebow or the falling Houston Texans?

Match-up: Baltimore (10-4) Cleveland (5-9)

Building Momentum with Organized Chaos

After coming off a huge victory over the Saints, the Ravens head to Cleveland for a tough divisional match-up.  The Browns feature a bruising running game and a talented secondary. The good news for the Ravens is that the offense has found their running game and the defense is back to their pressure style of defense, better known as 'organized chaos.'  Baltimore will look to build momentum heading to the playoffs.

Cleveland Browns:

The Browns are staring to put the pieces together on offense. Rookie Colt McCoy has brought some playmaking ability to the quarterback position.  RB Peyton Hillis is a bruising running back with 1129 yards, 4.5 average and 11 TD's. Hillis is also the leading receiver on the team with 59 receptions.  The unit is ranked 18th in rushing yards (107.2).  TE Benjamin Watson (58 receptions, 674 yards, 3 TD's.) has been incorporated into the offense and is an effective receiver.  Mohammed Massaquoi has the potential to be a big playmaker and Chansi Stucky has been a consistent receiver. The dangerous kick returner Joshua Cribbs has been infused in the offense as a receiver and in the Wildcat formation.  The unit ranks 28th in points scored (18.0) and 28th in passing yards (187.8).

Veteran linebackers Scott Fujita and Chris Cocong, along with DT Shaun Rodgers and NT Ahtyba Rubin give the defense some stability up front. However, Scott Fujita has been inured since November and was just placed on IR. The secondary is young, but talented.  Rookie Safety T.J. Ward (leading tackler, 104 ) is a hard hitter and having a good season. Free Safety Abraham Wallace has steadily improved with 68 tackles, 2 sacks and 2 Interceptions.  Cornerbacks Sheldon Brown (2 Int,'s) and rookie Joe Haden (5 Int.'s) have provided consistency.  The unit ranks 10th in points allowed (19.4), 15th in passing yards (222.6), and 25th against the run (129.2).

Match-ups: RB Peyton Hillis vs. Ravens front 7: In the first match-up in Baltimore, Hillis had a dominant game rushing for 144 yards.  Hillis also leads the team in receptions with 59 for 469 yards.   Ravens are now ranked 5th in rushing yards allowed (93.5). Look for the Ravens to make it a priority to slow down Cleveland's rushing attack.

TE Benjamin Watson vs. CB Chris Carr/Ravens LB's: Last week against Cincinnati, "Watson tallied a game high seven receptions for 92 yards." Watson leads the team in passing yards with 674 and is second on the team in receptions with 58. The Ravens must take away QB McCoy's safety valve.

Ravens O-Line vs. Browns D line: The Ravens O-line bounced back and opened up running lanes for Ray Rice. Cleveland plays physical up front, but are ranked 25th rushing yards allowed.  The Oniel Cousins experiment at right tackle was short lived, however, it still remains an option for certain running packages.

Ray Rice vs. Browns LB's: The Browns will be keying in on Ray Rice.  The Browns leading linebacker Scott Fujita is on IR. That means Cam Cameron will try to get Rice in open space and try to find mismatches for Rice in the flat.

TE ED Dickson vs. Browns LB's: The status of Todd Heap is still uncertain, so that means rookie Ed Dickson will most likely start again. The Dickson had his first career TD last Sunday and is getting more involved in the offense.

WR Anquan Boldin vs. CB Joe Haden: In the first season match-up Anquan Boldin caught 3 touchdown passes against the Browns Eric Wright. However, rookie standout Joe Haden is now playing in place of Wright.

OLB Suggs vs. LT Joe Thomas: T-Sizzle is having a great year, he will need to continue to apply pressure and slow down QB Colt McCoy.  McCoy has been sacked 19 times in his six appearances.

Ravens Coverage vs. KR/PR Joshua Cribbs: Joshua Cribbs is a threat whenever the ball is in his hands.

"PLAYER TO MAKE HIGHLIGHT FILM:"

Jonathan Scruggs: Ray Rice

The Ravens clicked offensively last week thanks in large part to the play of Running Back Ray Rice. He's going to once again be the key to victory this week as the Browns look to rebound from their skid and finish the season on a high note

Matt Jergensen: Ray Rice

"Considering last week's performance this is a safe bet for this weekend. The weather should be cold and possibly snowy in Cleveland so look for the Ravens run game to get going against the 25th ranked Defense against the rush."

Gene Winner: Ed Reed

"Reed has been quiet these last few games, look for him to grab and interception against the rookie Colt McCoy."

Related Injury News:

RAVENS:

TE Todd Heap: Hamstring:   "Ravens coach John Harbaugh says tight end Todd Heap could return for Sunday's road game against the Cleveland Browns after missing the past two games with a pulled right hamstring." http://www.nfl.com/news/story/

WR/KR David Reed suffered a concussion in Sunday's game. His status is uncertain.

BROWNS:

"The Browns announced Tuesday that they have placed linebacker Scott Fujita and cornerback Eric Wright on season-ending injured reserve." http://www.nfl.com/news/

Related Notes:

As pointed out by Matt Loede, www.Brownsgab.com, "Wide receiver Demetrius Williams  [former Raven] made his Browns debut today [against Cincinnati last Sunday]. He joined the club on October 26 as a free agent as was inactive the previous six contests."