Ravens vs. Commanders NFL Week 2 Predictions & NFL Best Bets Today

• Where: FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland
• When: Monday, August 21, 2023, 8 p.m. ET
• Where to Watch: ESPN, NFL Network
• Spread: Baltimore (-1.5) vs Washington (-1.5)
• Over/Under: 37.5

The Washington Commanders (1-0) host the Baltimore Ravens (1-0) at FedEx Field this Monday, with the kickoff scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.

Having clinched 24 consecutive preseason wins, the Ravens recently bested the Philadelphia Eagles 20-19 on Aug. 12. QB Tyler Huntley, who previously filled in for Lamar Jackson, logged 88 yards and a TD. 

Josh Johnson added another TD, amassing 45 yards from 8 completions. Backup RB duo, Melvin Gordon and Gus Edwards, jointly carried for 37 yards. Anticipate a stronger lineup for Week 2.

On Aug. 11, the Commanders narrowly defeated the Cleveland Browns 17-15, guided by former UNC Tar Heels QB and 2022 5th-round draftee, Sam Howell. 

He registered 77 yards with a TD, while Jacoby Brissett contributed 75 yards and an interception. As the QB contest intensifies, both Howell and Brissett will likely see significant action.

The Ravens last tasted a preseason loss in 2015, but what stands out even more than this streak is head coach John Harbaugh's impressive 44-12 preseason record.

Remarkably, the Ravens haven't been pushing their limits to maintain this streak. For instance, in their recent win against the Eagles, they didn't utilize key players like Lamar Jackson, J.K. Dobbins, Roquan Smith, Marlon Humphrey, and Marcus Williams, among others.

The quarterbacking duties were mainly shared between Josh Johnson and Tyler Huntley last week, with Anthony Brown also featuring. Both Johnson and Huntley completed eight passes, tallying a combined 133 passing yards and each throwing a touchdown. Undrafted rookie Sean Ryan led in both receptions and receiving yards.

Last week, the Commanders outplayed the Browns on the road. Howell was impressive, completing 9 out of 12 passes for 77 yards and a touchdown. Both Jacoby Brissett and Jake Fromm had their moments, but also threw an interception each.

Key players like Brian Robinson Jr., Jahan Dotson, and Terry McLaurin made brief appearances. While it's uncertain how many of Washington's starters will face Baltimore, considering Coach Ron Rivera's history, it's likely we'll see some top names. 

Reflecting on Washington's second preseason game last year, prominent players like Carson Wentz, Antonio Gibson, Curtis Samuel, McLaurin, and Robinson were on the field. It's probable that Rivera will continue this trend for Monday's match.

Baltimore's 8-year preseason streak continues, with Jackson and other starters anticipated to play in their second preseason game.

While the Commanders boast quarterbacks Howell and Brissett, neither has stood out significantly. The Ravens' seasoned backups are poised for successful drives.

Both teams narrowly clinched their preseason openers, with marginal victories. Baltimore is favored, but the contest will likely be tight.

Washington plans to play its prospective starting quarterbacks for most of the game. Both Huntley and Johnson, who played crucial snaps last season, should ensure consistent quarterback performance. With defensive starters making brief appearances, quarterback plays will be decisive.

Each team recorded two turnovers in their openers: a fumble and interception for Baltimore and two interceptions for Washington. A focus on ball security can be expected. Baltimore posted 20 points to Washington's 17.

The quarterback competition, whether for Baltimore's backup or Washington's starter, is set to invigorate the game.

While the Ravens showcased a robust running strategy, amassing 133 yards in Week 1, the Commanders, having yielded 117 to Cleveland, might find themselves under pressure again.

Ravens vs. Commanders NFL FREE Picks

• ⭐ NFL Best Bets 1: Ravens to win on the ML (-130) at BetMGM
• ⭐ NFL Best Bets 2: Over 37.5 points (-110) at Draftkings
• ⭐ NFL Best Bets 3: Ravens -1.5 (-110)  at FanDuel