The Baltimore Ravens are in a win-and-in situation this week and only need to beat the Cincinnati Bengals to claim one of seven spots in the AFC playoff picture. It’s just one step in the goal to win a championship, but first Baltimore needs to prove it belongs. And the Ravens might have to do that without quite a few starters again this week.
Though no one was officially ruled out, having 10 players “questionable” for this game also appears to be a bit of a misnomer as well. Center Patrick Mekari, defensive end Yannick Ngakoue, and wide receiver Willie Snead have missed all three days of practice this week. As we’ve seen often under coach John Harbaugh, players missing that much practice time are usually going to be held out. In addition, cornerback Jimmy Smith never fully returned to practice, being limited the final two days. New injuries to running back Gus Edwards and tackle D.J. Fluker on Friday are concerning as well.
If Baltimore can get far healthier than they look right now, they could be a real threat in the playoffs. But if they’re down several starting players on both sides of the ball, it’s going to make a tough road far tougher.
Take a look at Friday’s injury report to see which players are already ruled out and which ones are simply questionable for both the Ravens and Bengals.