Free Pick: Baltimore (2-1) at Denver (3-0) 10/3/21

The Ravens come into this game with a 2-1 record and they could easily be 0-3. But, they aren’t and that is the bottom line. It took an unbelievable 66-yard field goal on the last play of the game and non-call when the play clock clearly ran out to beat the lowly Detroit Lions. They are coming into Denver to take on the Broncos who have taken advantage of a soft early season schedule. This will be Denver’s toughest test of the season so far and will be interesting to see how both teams react. Here are the matchups.

Quarterback: Lamar Jackson has been up and down for the first three games. He has passed for 761 yards with 3 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. It is weird when the quarterback is also the leading rusher, but he is, with 35 carries for 251 yards and 2 more scores. He is always a key for the Ravens. Veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, has been excellent in the first three game. He is completing 77% of his passes for 827 yards and four TD’s. He has played turnover free and has rejuvenated the Broncos. Advantage: Baltimore

Running Backs: Ty’Son Williams and Latavius Murray have combined for 53 carries for 256 yards and Baltimore will want to run the ball. Leading the Broncos, are Melvin Gordon and Javonte Williams who have 81 carries for 321 yards. Advantage: Neither

Receivers: Marquise Brown and Sammy Watkins have 17 catches for 443 yards and 2 touchdowns. Tight end, Mark Andrews has 13 catches for 186 yards and he is becoming a go-to guy. This position group is capable of some big plays and the Ravens passing game has been improved. Denver will counter with wide-outs, Courtland Sutton and Tim Patrick who have 27 catches for 384 yards and tight end, Noah Fant has 12 for 110. Advantage: Baltimore

Defense: Baltimore has been good against the run allowing 79 yards per game but they are allowing 314 yards passing. The Broncos pass offense has been good averaging 260 yards per game, so that is a facet of the game to be watched. The Ravens run game is the key for them, as they are always at the top of the league in rushing, and this year they are averaging 185 yards. Denver’s run defense has been excellent but it might be the competition they have faced. Advantage: Denver

This is a big test for us to see if Denver is for real. The three opponents they have beaten are a combined 0-9, so the doubts are real. The Ravens have been up and down and probably aren’t thrilled with the way they have been playing and they should be amped for this one. All signs point to a tight game and Vegas agrees as Denver is a slim 1-point favorite.

AARON’S PICK: Baltimore +1

PAPA DUDE’S PICK: Denver -1