Baltimore Ravens vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3 Bold Predictions

Oct 5, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Michael Johnson (90) walks off the field after the New Orleans Saints scored a touchdown in overtime at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome to win 37-31. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Michael Johnson, not Gerald McCoy, will be the Bucs D-lineman with a big game

Fans of line play should keep their eyes on Gerald McCoy, the Bucs’ dominant defensive tackle. All game, McCoy will be lined up across from either Kelechi Osemele or Marshal Yanda, who are both having Pro Bowl caliber seasons. Fans of the Ravens, meanwhile, may want to look away from Michael Johnson, who should have his way with rookie left tackle James Hurst.

Johnson has struggled this year outside of a strong performance against Pittsburgh. He has been a better run defender than pass rusher for much of his career, and he has struggled with injuries this season. That’s not a recipe for great success getting after quarterbacks.

What better way to get back on track than taking on an undrafted rookie, James Hurst?

The Ravens will probably give Hurst some help against the Bucs, perhaps a chip block from a running back or a tight end in pass protection. They will need to, as Hurst will probably struggle against Johnson’s combination of length and speed.