### Key Matchups to Watch in Ravens vs. Bengals Showdown

After picking up their first win on the road against the Carolina Panthers, the Cincinnati Bengals look to maintain their momentum as they host the Baltimore Ravens in their first division game of the season. The Bengals, with a 1-3 record, are desperate to turn their season around, while the 2-2 Ravens aim to build on their impressive victory over the Buffalo Bills.

One crucial factor will be how the Bengals handle the Ravens' dominant rushing attack. Baltimore leads the NFL in rushing yards, bolstered by the dynamic duo of quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derek Henry. Jackson ranks ninth in rushing yards among all players, whereas Henry tops the league. Conversely, Cincinnati has struggled to stop the run, allowing the ninth-most rushing yards this season. However, their defense gets a boost this week with the return of key players like BJ Hill, rookie defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson, and Myles Murphy, last season's first-round pick.

The Ravens offensive front, especially left tackle Ronnie Stanley, also plays a pivotal role in this matchup. Stanley, who has yet to allow a sack this season, faces off against Bengals edge rusher Trey Hendrickson. Despite only recording three sacks, Hendrickson boasts the 10th-highest win rate for edge rushers per PFF and will seek to apply pressure on Jackson. With additional support from Myles Murphy, Cincinnati aims to disrupt Baltimore’s offensive rhythm and prevent Jackson from connecting with his receivers.

On the offensive side, Cincinnati's strategy largely revolves around their 12-personnel formations, featuring one running back, two tight ends, and two wide receivers—Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Both considered among the best in the league, these receivers can capitalize if the Ravens defense focuses too much on stopping the run. Quarterback Joe Burrow, known for his precision, may find ample opportunities to connect with Chase and Higgins if Baltimore's secondary is drawn in.

Cincinnati’s ability to balance its offensive play-calling will also be under scrutiny. Last week, the Bengals demonstrated a balanced attack with 31 run plays and 31 pass attempts. However, the Ravens have been exceptional against the run, giving up an average of just three yards per carry. This creates a significant test for the Bengals' offensive line and running backs, who must find ways to penetrate Baltimore’s stout run defense.

The Bengals’ offensive line, coached by Frank Pollack, will need to be at their best to open up lanes for explosive runners like Chase Brown. If they can establish the run, it would facilitate Burrow’s ability to exploit single coverage against his elite wide receivers, potentially leading to big plays.

As both teams vie for a critical win that could shape their seasons, these key matchups will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining the outcome. Fans will be keeping a close watch to see if the Bengals can neutralize the Ravens' rushing attack and if their offense can outmaneuver a resilient Baltimore defense.