Chiefs running backs Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones have combined forces to create the number one rushing attack in the league this year. The two are a key matchup for the Ravens defense.
Thomas Jones' 245 carries lead the team in that category but it was Jamaal Charles that lead the team in rushing yards with 1467. Charles is dangerous not only in the backfield but also in the slot. Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis has allowed Charles to move into the slot rather frequently. As a result, Charles is third on the team in receptions and fourth in receiving yards. His versatility is very similar to what Ray Rice has brought to the Ravens offense.
Back in 2008 when the Ravens underwent their first season under offensive Cam Cameron, veteran Willis Mcgahee, fullback Leron McClain and rookie Ray Rice finished the season as the number four rushing attack. Even though Kansas City is a two-headed monster, their running attack is reminiscent of the 08' Ravens'.
Thomas Jones like Willis Mcgahee is much more of a straight ahead runner. He may not have a high average per rush but accumulates many rushing touchdowns. As mentioned earlier, Jamaal Charles like Ray Rice is a threat wherever he is positioned on the field.
What makes Charles most dangerous is his speed. When in the open field, he looks like Titans running back Chris Johnson. He is able to run past or through any defender on the opposing side of the field. The last time Johnson faced the Ravens defense was in the divisional round of the playoffs two years ago. He gashed the Ravens for 72 yards on two drives before getting hurt and missing he remainder of the game.
I am in no way disregarding Thomas Jones talents but Jamaal Charles is the running back to watch on Sunday. The Chiefs will develop a scheme to get him out in space with screens and quick outside passes and hope he can create a few big plays by making the Ravens defenders.
If Jones and Charles can run the ball effectively, they will sustain drives, tire out the Ravens defense by the fourth quarter and keep Joe Flacco and the Ravens offense off the field. In a nutshell, these ingredients spell defeat for the Ravens. Should Ray Lewis and the front seven get disruptive penetration, they can knock the Chiefs offense of balance.
Without a punishing run game, Matt Cassel will be burdened with winning the game, a task he alone cannot accomplish against the Ravens.
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