Right Off Russell

As I type, snow is falling heavily across the the Baltimore metro area, as it is much of the mid-Atlantic states. I am curious what effect that will have on the offensive game plan and how it is executed. I expect the snow to be cleared out of the area by Sunday, but conditions may still be harsh and this could be a perfect opportunity to feature a hard nosed rushing attack against a Bears defense that struggles to defend the ground game. The Bears are going to have an even tougher time stopping the run in Baltimore considering they cannot get to Baltimore due to the weather. This could end up being a Sunday or Monday night game.

Passing Game: As mentioned, cold and slippery conditions could limit the amount of times Joe Flacco drops back to throw and that may not be a bad thing. Flacco has had some troubles int eh passing game over the last 5 weeks. Some related to various injuries and some just the growing pains of being a 2nd year QB facing defenses that are geared more toward confusing him and limiting his opportunities to make plays. Flacco has also looked off with his timing and limited in his movement within the pocket, which can also be attributed to his injuries. The Ravens are also limited by the number of healthy wide receivers they will have come game time. Mark Clayton is out and Kelley Washington could be as well. That would leave just Derrick Mason, Demetrius Williams, Justin Harper and David Tyree available to play, the last two of the group have not caught a pass this year. Todd Heap and LJ Smith are banged up as well, which could mean that Ray Rice will be featured heavily in the Ravens passing attack. Because of RIce’s skill as a receiver using him as much as possible is a good thing, but if I were the Bears I would do all I could to limit his catches and keep him out of 1 on 1 match-ups with linebackers.

Running Game: I would not be surprised to see the Ravens runt eh ball 40+ times on Sunday (or Monday or whenever the game is played). The need to establish a physical tone with the running game much like they did against the Lions. I get the feeling that the o-line is gearing up for a lot of running the ball the rest of the way, if they can send a early message about the level of intensity they are bringing to this game, the Bears may be willing to pack it in like the Lions last week. I have been saying it for several weeks but the use of Le’Ron McClain in the running game really opens things up for Ray Rice and vice versa. Defenses get worn out by McClain pounding on them and then have to go chase Rice all over the field. Or, Rice runs them in circles and McClain comes in to finish them off. Whatever the combo it needs to be used often against the Bears, and the remaining opponents on the Ravens schedule.

With all the uncertainty of the Bears trip to Baltimore, the time of the game and fans being able to get to the Stadium, this could be an unusual atmosphere. I am not sure who it benefits more. Hopefully the home team, who is able to sit and wait while the Bears try to get to Baltimore. Be safe and stay warm if you are going to the game.