MIKE PRESTON’S KEY MATCHUPS
Titans defensive line vs. Ravens offensive line: The Ravens are trying to find a running game, and the Titans want to discover a run defense, which is ranked No. 26 in the NFL. Ravens center Matt Skura and guards Alex Lewis and Marshal Yanda need to control nose guard Austin Johnson with double teams while offensive tackles James Hurst and Ronnie Stanley have to win one-on-one battles with defensive tackles DaQuan Jones and Jurrell Casey. Casey is stout, powerful and quick and has good moves. Lewan is a former first-round pick in 2014 and has started 57 total games. He is supposed to be a finesse player but is just downright nasty at times. Suggs hasn’t been spectacular but he’s been solid. If he gets off to a fast start, he can become a major factor. He won’t back down from Lewan and neither will Williams. Suggs has 3.5 sacks this season and Williams has two. If he stays healthy, look for Williams to stay on the field more. Titans CBs Malcolm Butler and Adoree’ Jackson vs. Ravens WRs Michael Crabtree and John Brown: Pass coverage has been the Titans’ forte, allowing only 210 yards per game. Butler, the former New England Patriots standout, is the shutdown player with 22 tackles and one interception. Jackson tries to be as aggressive as Butler and isn’t afraid to press on receivers at the line of scrimmage. Brown (19 catches, 396 yards, three touchdowns) is the deep threat while Crabtree has 24 catches for 250 yards.