Lamar Jackson’s arm
The Falcons run defense has been torn up recently, and the Ravens have been the league’s best team at running the football since Lamar Jackson took over under center, but the easiest way to beat Atlanta’s defense is through the air. Lamar Jackson is going to have to take advantage of the Falcons depleted secondary and throw the ball better than he has so far if the Ravens want to come up with the win.
De’Vondre Campbell
On the other hand, the Falcons aren’t going to have much of a chance in this one if they allow the Ravens rushing attack to get going and control the clock. With the duel threat capability of Jackson, it’s going to force the Atlanta linebackers to make plays in open space, something they have been miserable at this season. There’s a chance the leader of their defense, Deion Jones, returns to the middle of the field, but if not, Campbell has to step up on Sunday.
Matt Judon
Let’s be clear, the Ravens don’t have one star pass rusher, they have a multitude of athletes that can make Matt Ryan’s day a living hell. The Falcons offensive line has been a massive disappointment all the way around, and the best way to slow down Atlanta’s offensive attack is by pressuring Ryan. When that happens, this group has been stuck in the mud. Judon has been feasting on quarterbacks lately, racking up 4.5 sacks in his last three games, including a three-sack showcase last week. Look for him to have a major impact on Sunday.
Damontae Kazee
Kazee has become a household name for not only Falcons fans, but football fans in general. It seems like every week he is coming up with another interception. He recorded his sixth interception on Thanksgiving, giving him the league lead in the category. Even though the Ravens have won their two games Jackson has started, the rookie has thrown three picks. Atlanta hasn’t had much luck forcing turnovers, but odds are, Jackson will allow for some opportunities. Kazee is the one player who seems to always make the most of his chances.
Jack Crawford/Grady Jarrett
If there are two players on the Atlanta defense that have showed up every time they have been on the field, it’s these two right here. On the opposite side, the Ravens interior offensive line really has some problems. In an absolute must-win game for Atlanta, Crawford and Jarrett have to disrupt this Baltimore rushing attack early and often. If they can force Lamar Jackson to beat them with his arm, they should have no problem moving to 5-7 and keeping their slim playoff chances alive.