S Chuck Clark

While Baltimore’s defense has been playing well, they still struggle most against quick slot receivers going inside, covering running backs out of the backfield and tight ends up the seam. Playing as a hybrid linebacker/safety in the Ravens’ defensive-back heavy scheme, Clark is ultimately going to factor in quite a bit on Baltimore’s coverage inside.

I’d expect the Ravens to put cornerback Marlon Humphrey up against Cole Beasley, the Bills’ slot receiver. However, Clark could be asked to help out there as well. Whether in zone coverage assignments or in bracket coverage on Beasley, Clark will factor into the Bills’ second-most targeted receiver’s success.

But much like the Ravens, the Bills get a lot of use out of their tight end, Dawson Knox. There, Clark will likely be the primary defender and will be tasked with not only covering him but having to fight through him to get to the ball carrier on run plays.

Don’t forget about running back Devin Singletary, who has seen an uptick in his playing time in the last five weeks. He’s a far better outside runner than Frank Gore and he offers quite a bit in the passing game — both areas Clark will be responsible with handling.

Clark has been having some outstanding games, including last week against the 49ers, but he’s going to get another big test this week in a lot of different ways. If he does well, Baltimore’s defense will be able to get off the field far quicker.