Eagles-Ravens Week 1 Preview: Key Matchups and Storylines

The Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens will kick off the 2023 NFL season with a highly anticipated matchup in Week 1. Here are the key matchups and storylines to watch in this pivotal contest.

* **Jalen Hurts vs. Lamar Jackson:** The battle of two of the NFL's most dynamic quarterbacks will be a highlight of the game. Hurts has emerged as a legitimate MVP candidate after leading the Eagles to the NFC Championship Game last season, while Jackson remains one of the league's most elusive and explosive playmakers.

* **A.J. Brown vs. Marcus Peters:** The acquisition of Brown in the offseason has given the Eagles a potent receiving threat to pair with DeVonta Smith. Brown will face a tough test against Peters, one of the NFL's best cornerbacks who has been known for his big-play ability.

Eagles-Ravens Week 1 Preview: Key Matchups and Storylines

* **Haason Reddick vs. Ronnie Stanley:** Reddick emerged as a breakout star for the Eagles last season, posting 16 sacks. He will be tasked with pressuring Jackson, who has been a master at evading pass rushers in the past. Stanley, who missed most of last season with an ankle injury, will be responsible for blocking Reddick and protecting Jackson.

* **Eagles' Super Bowl aspirations:** The Eagles are considered one of the favorites to win the Super Bowl this season after their impressive run last year. A victory over the Ravens in Week 1 would be a major confidence boost and send a message that they are a legitimate contender.

* **Ravens' injury concerns:** The Ravens have been dealing with a number of injuries to key players, including Stanley, running back J.K. Dobbins, and tight end Mark Andrews. The status of these players will have a major impact on the outcome of the game.

* **Rookie debuts:** The Eagles will have several rookies making their NFL debuts on Sunday, including first-round pick Jordan Davis and second-round pick Nakobe Dean. The Ravens also have a number of talented rookies who could make an impact, such as first-round pick Kyle Hamilton and second-round pick Tyler Linderbaum.

* **Nick Sirianni's coaching debut:** Sirianni will be making his head coaching debut in Week 1 against the Ravens. Sirianni has a reputation as an innovative and fiery coach, and he will be eager to prove that he can lead the Eagles to success.

* **John Harbaugh's record:** Ravens head coach John Harbaugh has a phenomenal winning percentage of .653 over his 15 seasons with the team. He will be looking to extend his success against the Eagles, against whom he has a 7-1 record in the regular season.