Game Preview
Mike Krueger
Predicted Score: Ravens 24, Browns 10
Baltimore: Despite their 2-1 record the Ravens have yet to hit their stride. With a revolving door at QB and a defense not playing up to par they've somehow managed to outlast mediocre opponents (Jets, Cardinals) at home while losing a road battle with the Bengals in Week 1. QB Steve McNair started last week's game but was pulled in the fourth quarter after re-aggravating his groin injury. Kyle Boller has performed well in relief and makes you wonder if he shouldn't be the starter? Look for a whole lot of McGahee as the Browns have allowed all three RBs they've faced (Willie Parker, Rudi Johnson, LaMont Jordan) to rush for over 100 yards.
- Start: RB Willis McGahee, TE Todd Heap, WR Derrick Mason
- Consider: QB Steve McNair, WR Demetrius Williams
- Sit: WR Mark Clayton
Cleveland: RB Jamal Lewis faces his former team just two weeks after dropping 200 yards on the Bengals and one week after stumbling for 56 yards against the Raiders. The Ravens have yet to give up more than 70 yards to any RB. I'm sure he'll be fired up to face his old team but keep him our of your fantasy lineup this week. Derek Anderson could be a nice play here if the Browns take a page out of the Cardinals playbook and use the hurry-up offense. Kurt Warner (15-20, 258, 2 TDs) had success through the air in a failed comeback attempt and Anderson certainly has the weapons (Edwards, Winslow) to mimic those numbers should the Browns coaching staff weight the gameplan heavy on the pass. TE Kellen Winslow does have a "slightly" separated shoulder ala Eli Manning, but is expected to play.
- Start: WR Braylon Edwards, TE Kellen Winslow
- Consider: QB Derek Anderson, RB Jamal Lewis
- Sit: WR Joe Jurevicius