The Baltimore Ravens are back on top of the AFC North after a last-second victory against the Cincinnati Bengals and will look to continue that streak against the early surprise of the NFL, the New York Giants.
The Ravens are 3-2 but only seven total points away from being 5-0. They have blown leads of 28-3 and 20-3 in their two losses. In the game against the Bengals, Justin Tucker made a game-winning field goal, proving once again that if the game comes down to the kicker, no one is in better shape than the Ravens.
Heading into last week, the Giants were looked at as a cool story, starting 3-1 under first year coach Brian Daboll. However, the big-time victory against the Packers in London showed they may be more than just a cool story, but rather a bona fide playoff contender. Leading the way for the Giants is Saquon Barkley, who is second in the league with 533 yards rushing (Nick Chubb of the Cleveland Browns has 593).
Caesars Sportsbook lists the Ravens as a 5.5-point favorite with an over/under of 45.
Let’s take a closer look at the odds and trends:
Baltimore Ravens at New York Giants
Time/TV: 1 p.m. Sunday, CBS
Point spread (from Caesars Sportsbook): Baltimore -5.5
Money line: Baltimore -267, New York +215
Over/under: 45
Analysis: Lamar Jackson has been sensational once again, as he is third in the NFL with 12 touchdowns (Mahomes 15, Allen 14). He has always been a great runner, but he is doing that at an even better rate this year, averaging 7.6 yards per carry, which would be a career high.
One big factor in this game is the new Giants defensive coordinator, Wink Martindale. Martindale had worked for the Ravens since 2012, including as the defensive coordinator in 2018. He went up against the Ravens offense every day in practice, which could play a significant role in this game.
Giants quarterback Daniel Jones is not putting up crazy numbers, but he is not making the BIG mistake like has done too often in the past. If he is able to continue to limit the turnovers, the Giants will be in a lot of games.
This has the makings of an exciting matchup, as the Giants have a very talented defense. Being led by the Ravens former defensive coordinator should help limit the Ravens offense, making the under appetizing.
Prediction: Ravens 21, Giants 17
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