Key Matchups

The Ravens are ready to take on their AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals this weekend, and BR.com breaks down some key matchups to watch heading into the game:

Ravens LB Jarret Johnson vs. Bengals OT Stacy Andrews

The Bengals are hurting at right tackle, where starter and four-time Pro Bowler Willie Anderson has missed three of his last four games with a knee injury. Anderson will again miss Sunday's contest, opening up the possibility to generate pressure on quarterback Carson Palmer's right side, where Johnson will be rushing from the most.

Ravens RB Willis McGahee vs. Bengals LB Landon Johnson

Johnson is the leader of an injury-riddled linebacking corps, where he leads the team with 72 tackles. As the Ravens look to jump-start their offense this week, the attack will mainly run through McGahee, who is the second-leading rusher in the AFC. It will be Johnson's job to hunt down McGahee sideline-to-sideline from the middle linebacker spot.

Ravens CB Corey Ivy vs. Bengals WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh

Ivy, subbing for Samari Rolle in the starting lineup, will be challenged by the stalwart Houshmandzadeh, whose 10 receiving touchdowns are second in the NFL. Houshmandzadeh has solid hands and a fearless and tough wideout, especially over the middle. The Ravens will likely offer more help behind Ivy so Houshmandzadeh won't be able to get free for a deep bomb.