Lions-Ravens Betting Preview: Detroit Remains Big Underdog As Teams Battle Injuries

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Written By Drew Ellis on September 22, 2021Last Updated on January 14, 2022
Ravens Lions Injuries September 2021

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The Detroit Lions didn’t receive any early favors from the NFL when it comes to this year’s football schedule. This holds true for their Week 3 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens as well.

After suffering a challenging defeat of 35-17 against the Green Bay Packers on Monday night, Detroit finds itself with a tight schedule as it gears up to encounter the Baltimore Ravens this upcoming Sunday.

After securing a remarkable victory in Week 2 against the reigning AFC champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, Lamar Jackson and the Ravens are determined to capitalize on that momentum as they face the struggling Lions.

Will a battered Detroit team be able to compete at home this upcoming Sunday?

Baltimore Ravens at Detroit Lions: NFL Week 3 Odds

Lions once again a big underdog

Detroit is once again entering the weekend as an underdog by more than one score, marking the third consecutive game.

If the current trend continues, the Lions will be facing a 9-point disadvantage against the Ravens at home, making it their smallest point spread of the season as of early Wednesday evening.

Both teams have a 1-1 record against the spread this season, and all previous games involving these teams have resulted in the over.

Out of the five meetings between these two franchises, the Ravens emerged victorious four times. In the past three encounters, Baltimore not only won but also covered the spread. The most recent face-off took place in 2017, resulting in a dominant 44-20 win for the Ravens on their home turf.

How to watch: Baltimore Ravens at Detroit Lions

  • The game being played is between the Baltimore Ravens (1-1) and the Detroit Lions (0-2).
  • Sunday at 1 p.m.
  • The location is Ford Field in Detroit.
  • Television Network: CBS <br>Announcers: Greg Gumbel, Adam Archuleta, AJ Ross
  • The radio station in Detroit is 97.1 FM, hosted by Dan Miller, Lomas Brown, and T.J. Lang.
  • You can find the Lions on SiriusXM Channel 226 and the Ravens on SiriusXM Channel 384 for satellite radio.

Packers pull away in second half

The Lions seemed poised to amaze the world on Monday night, leading Green Bay 17-14 at halftime. However, the second half completely changed the game.

In the last two quarters, The Pack dominated Detroit by scoring 21 points while preventing their opponent from scoring, ultimately securing an easy victory.

Despite having fewer yards (323-344), Green Bay appeared to have full control over the Detroit defense and was able to execute its game plan effortlessly.

Aaron Rodgers skillfully tore through the depleted Detroit secondary, and the Packers only had to punt once. Rodgers completed an impressive 22 out of 25 passes, accumulating 255 yards and landing four touchdowns. Meanwhile, running back Aaron Jones posed a significant challenge for the opposing team, as he managed to score four times throughout the game, three of which were achieved through receptions.

In addition to the season-ending Achilles injury to Jeff Okudah, the Lions have now suffered another setback as rookie corner Ifeatu Melifonwu (pictured at top) is out indefinitely with a quad injury. On Wednesday, he was officially placed on the injured reserve (IR).

In the first half of Monday’s game, Jared Goff displayed a strong performance. However, his performance took a downturn in the second half, as he committed two turnovers and was unable to generate any more offensive brilliance. Overall, Goff completed 26 out of 36 passes for 246 yards, resulting in two touchdowns.

In addition, Goff led the team in rushing with a total of 46 yards, contributing to the team’s overall count of 108 yards gained on the ground.

Rookie tackle Penei Sewell has emerged as a bright spot for Detroit. In his first two starts at left tackle, he has successfully prevented any sacks. However, with Taylor Decker sidelined due to a finger injury, the Lions now face a challenge when he comes back. Sewell initially faced difficulties at right tackle during the preseason, but he has thrived in his natural position from his college days.

Injuries depleting already thin Lions roster vs. Ravens

In order to remain competitive this year, the Lions simply couldn’t afford to be plagued by injuries.

They seem to have already been overwhelmed by a swarm.

In addition to the absence of two starting corners, receiver Tyrell Williams is still undergoing concussion protocol and did not participate in Wednesday’s practice.

D’Andre Swift, the running back, had a groin injury during Wednesday’s practice, which restricted his participation and raised doubts about his availability for Monday’s game. Despite this, Swift managed to join the team and made a significant contribution, accumulating 37 rushing yards from eight carries and adding another 41 yards from catching four passes.

Romeo Okwara (shoulder), Michael Brockers (shoulder), and Kevin Strong (concussion) were all limited in a defensive capacity. Trey Flowers (shoulder/knee) did not participate at all.

Jaime Collins, the linebacker, also did not participate, but it was not due to any injury. According to a tweet by ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter on Wednesday, the Lions are actively seeking to trade Collins.

This is a concerning indication for a defense that currently holds the 31st position in the NFL for points allowed, especially considering they are about to confront the NFL’s third most productive offense in terms of yards per game (443.5 ypg).

Lions tasked with containing Jackson

The 2021 season has witnessed Baltimore engaging in two thrilling nail-biters.

In Week 1, the Ravens faced a tough defeat against the Las Vegas Raiders, losing in overtime with a score of 33-27. However, they quickly turned the tables by securing an exhilarating victory over the Chiefs this past Sunday, with a final score of 36-35.

Currently, the Ravens, who are usually known for their strong defense, find themselves at the bottom of the league in passing defense, allowing 376 yards per game. Additionally, they rank 31st in total defense, conceding 448 yards per game.

Lamar Jackson, the former NFL MVP, is faced with immense pressure due to this situation.

Jackson, as always, has been his delightfully entertaining self. He has demonstrated his remarkable skills by throwing for an impressive 474 yards and securing two scores. Additionally, he has showcased his lightning-fast agility by rushing for a team-leading 193 yards and scoring two touchdowns.

The Ravens and Jackson have a legitimate worry about turnovers, with a total of four in just two games.

Similar to Detroit, Baltimore has experienced a disproportionate amount of injuries. The team suffered the loss of star cornerback Marcus Peters and second-year running back J.K. Dobbins prior to the start of the season. Furthermore, backup running back Gus Edwards also fell victim to a knee injury just before the season opener.

In just two games, rookie Ty’Son Williams has made a remarkable impression in the backfield. With only 22 carries, he has already accumulated an impressive 142 rushing yards. Additionally, he has showcased his versatility by contributing 45 receiving yards from six catches.

Left tackle Ronnie Stanley is another player to keep an eye on due to an ankle injury. He was unable to participate in Wednesday’s practice after sustaining the injury against Las Vegas. Additionally, Stanley was absent from all practice sessions last week as a result of this injury.

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