6 Aspects to Bengals beating the Ravens

Week 17 is here, and the Cincinnati Bengals are the 2013 AFC North champions. The Baltimore Ravens travel to the jungle for what essentially is a playoff game for them. While it doesn’t seem the Bengals may be playing for much, the Bengals have a chance to make it to the #2 seed if they win or keep hold of the #3 seed.

If the Bengals are to lose, however, they could move to the #4 seed and have to first play against the Chiefs and travel to Denver if they were to win. There is a lot of possibilities riding on this game for both teams, as it’s win or go home for the Ravens.

Here are six aspects that are critical for the Bengals to come away with a victory and end the regular season undefeated at home.

December 23, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) hands off to running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis (42) against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

1. Balanced Attack. The Bengals offense has been hot at home, but they must continue to have a balanced attack. Benjarvus Green-Ellis and Giovani Bernard are an exceptional duo that deserve a continuation of a bulk of carries.
   The balance attack helps Andy Dalton tremendously throughout the game, and Jay Gruden must be willing to stick to the run. Green-Ellis can tired the middle out and Bernard has the potential to take it the distance during any carry.
   Baltimore has a well-rounded defense that ranks in the top 11 against the pass and run, so the Bengals offense must be willing to use all their players to their strengths. If Andy Dalton remains calm and collected, he has the chance to tear apart any defense.
   If the Bengals want to move the ball, they should continue their balanced attack against a stout defense.