Baltimore Ravens vs Denver Broncos

Denver's defense is third in the NFL in yards given up, points surrendered (17.6 pg), and on third down (32.6%). The Broncos are on a 10-1 UNDER the total, as well as 11-3 UNDER as a dog. The biggest problem is an anemic offense that is last in scoring (14.3 ppg) and on third down (37.50%). Baltimore's defense is second vs. the rush and on third down (32.56%), plus 12th in points surrendered (20.6 pg). The Ravens have a run-first offense that chews up yards and the clock, ranking second in the league in rushing (162.7 ypg) with the seventh-worst passing attack. They're also second in the NFL in time of possession (32:20). QB Lamar Jackson should play but has been limited in practice with a quad injury. And Baltimore is 44-26 UNDER the total after outrushing an opponent by 100+ yards in the last game. I've taken a more detailed look at the struggles this Broncos offense has endured in a second NFL newsletter that will be hitting your inbox shortly. For now, take Denver/Baltimore UNDER the total. 

This should be an interesting game with the Baltimore running game vs. the Denver run defense. However, the Denver defense has faced three horrible offenses in the Giants, Jets, and Jags. This is going to the deepest end of the pool, and I don't think they will have success limiting this versatile offense. Teddy Bridgewater, in 32 starts, has seen his team average 26.2 points per game, and I'm sure he will have some success against Baltimore. These teams are geared to score, and the Denver defense hasn't even marginally been tested. This is an entirely different animal. I think this total is off the mark here. Play the OVER.

The Baltimore Ravens ambushed the defenseless Buffalo Bills in their opener, but the took on Cincinnati and gave up 34 points, and turned the ball over. The inability to run the ball left the ball in Joe Flacco's hands as he threw 55 passes. The result was three turnovers by the Ravens, and if they don't get their running game going it will be a long season. Denver is 2-0 and Case Keenum so far has improved the offense significantly, and he is now 15-4 since the start of last season. Joe Flacco has been tailing off for several years now, and doesn't look much better unless the opponent is Buffalo this year. Without a running game, this team is not a big threat. Denver's QB woes killed the season last year, but appear to be in good hands now. Take the points on Denver.