It’s game day at FEDEX Field and Monday night’s matchup will feature two teams with a deep history and loyal fan bases.
Baltimore has won five straight against Washington during the preseason and hold an 11-3 advantage overall.
Last year at M&T Bank Stadium, the Ravens came away with a 17-15 win behind quarterback Anthony Brown who completed 15 of 19 passes for 256 yards. In the win Brown had a 67-yard touchdown pass and a 6-yard touchdown run.
Then rookie Sam Howell was 24 of 35, 280 yards and a touchdown pass.
With kickoff fast approaching, here are five storylines to watch.
Zay Flowers-Emmanuel Forbes
After two intense joint practices, the starters for both teams could be held out, but rookies normally play and we’re looking for a third edition of Zay Flowers against Emmanuel Forbes.
Both players have been lights out during camp, and their intense practice battles led to multiple brawls.
Ravens win streak
Baltimore will look to extend their 24-game preseason winning streak, the longest in NFL history.
Fans and experts have debated the importance of the streak that began in 2016, but something has to give ahead of Monday night.
RB Competition
J.K. Dobbins returned to practice last week, and he’ll be joined by Gus Edwards and Justice Hill atop the depth chart.
Baltimore could carry a fourth player at the position and we believe rookie Keaton Mitchell has the edge over the veteran Melvin Gordon III.
2 games in six days
The Ravens will play Washington tonight, and then will travel to Tampa for a Saturday preseason finale against the Buccaneers.
It offers two more chances for players on the roster bubble to compete, but it’s unlikely we see Lamar Jackson and other key guys until the season opener.
New additions
With Marlon Humphrey, Rock Ya-Sin, Pepe Williams and Arthur Maulet out, Baltimore added Ronald Darby to the roster. Jalyn Armour-Davis exited Saturday’s practice with an injury, but could play.
Tonight provide an opportunity for Ar’Darius Washington, Kevon Seymour, Kyu Kelly and Tae Hayes to get off the bubble.
WR battle
Baltimore has Odell Beckham Jr., Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman and Nelson Agholor as a top four.
That leaves two or three spots with five players fighting for a role on the deepest position group on the team.
Tylan Wallace has been strong and scored a touchdown against the Eagles in the season opener.
Tarik Black, Sean Ryan, James Proche II and Laquon Treadwell will all battle for a potential fifth or sixth spot as well.
Sam Howell vs. Ravens defense
Howell is a talented quarterback, and the Ravens’ defense offers an intriguing opportunity for the second-year quarterback.
Howell has only attempted 19 passes in regular season action, and Monday night offers a unique chance to shine at home, in front of a national television audience.
New Commanders ownership
Josh Harris is officially the new owner and Monday night provides fans with the first opportunity to enjoy a home game under a group.
Harris — the co-owner of the NHL’s New Jersey Devils and NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers — has Magic Johnson on hand and the first order of business will be a new nickname.
