Vikings (3-4) at Ravens (5-2)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore
TV: Fox
Tipico Sportsbook line: Ravens by 5 ⁄2
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Vikings’ keys to victory: The Ravens can put up points in bunches but have struggled to jump-start their running game. If the Vikings can score first and make Baltimore abandon its run game, Minnesota would have the edge. The Vikings’ offense should take what Baltimore gives them in the short part of the field while also trying a few deep shots. If QB Kirk Cousins can use WRs Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen effectively in the short and intermediate games, it could be a long day for the Baltimore defense.
Ravens’ keys to victory: On offense, Baltimore needs to get the running game going while continuing to pass the ball effectively. Baltimore’s defense has been one of the worst-tackling units in the NFL, and if they can bring ball carriers down at a more effective rate, they can prevent what should be short gains going for long touchdowns.
Matchup to watch: Vikings WR Justin Jefferson vs. Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey. Baltimore’s star cornerback was tasked with stopping Bengals star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase in Week 7. He openly admitted he lost that matchup, and he’ll look to rebound against another one of the NFL’s best wide receivers in Jefferson. It could be one of the best matchups of 2021.
Who wins? While the Vikings are talented, the Ravens have been exceptional coming off their bye week during the John Harbaugh era. That fact, combined with the Ravens coming off their worst loss of the season, means Baltimore will be looking to prove itself.
Ravens, 33-24