NFL · August 23, 2025
Baltimore Ravens @ Washington Commanders
Free LineCrush game report for Baltimore Ravens @ Washington Commanders on August 23, 2025, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Henry's Absence Amplifies Ravens' RB Depth Evaluation
With Derrick Henry resting for the entire preseason as confirmed by Jonas Shaffer, Baltimore must finalize their running back hierarchy using D'Ernest Johnson and Rasheen Ali. Their performance against Washington's first-string defense will determine Week 1 workload distribution, especially in short-yardage situations where Henry's presence would typically dominate.
McLaurin's Bench Creates WR Opportunity for Commanders
Terry McLaurin's absence (per Nicki Jhabvala) forces Washington to accelerate evaluation of Jahan Dotson and Dyami Brown in meaningful preseason snaps. This Week 3 finale becomes critical for identifying which young receiver can handle increased targets opposite Terry McLaurin once the regular season begins.
Rodriguez's Start Tests Commanders' Post-Robinson Backfield
Chris Rodriguez starting and handling early carries (as reported by RotoWire) provides Washington's coaching staff their clearest look at a potential Brian Robinson successor. His ability to break tackles against Baltimore's physical run defense will determine if he earns the RB1 role before roster cutdowns.
Preseason Week 3: Starter Minutes Define Final Roster Decisions
Both teams will prioritize first-half snaps for starters to simulate regular-season intensity, making quarterback decision-making and offensive line cohesion the most scrutinized elements. Baltimore's coaching staff specifically needs to evaluate backup QBs like Cooper Rush before finalizing Lamar Jackson's supporting cast.
Pick Ideas
Under 40.5 Total Points Projection
Preseason Week 3 typically features conservative playcalling and early starter removal, especially with both teams' key offensive weapons resting. Expect heavy defensive substitution after the first quarter suppressing scoring.
Chris Rodriguez Over 25.5 Rushing Yards
With Rodriguez confirmed as the starting RB and primary early-down carrier per RotoWire, he should exceed this modest total against Baltimore's rotated defensive front in the first half.
D'Ernest Johnson First Ravens TD Scorer
Johnson's role as Baltimore's goal-line back in previous preseason games makes him the prime candidate to punch in the Ravens' initial touchdown, especially with Henry inactive and the offense prioritizing short-yardage reliability.