[SCI]

Both quarterbacks are looking to step up there respective games for this big AFC encounter. Steve McNair has been everything from a leadership standpoint and clutch performer Baltimore could ask for. However, for three quarters in each of the last two games, NcNair has played every bit of his 24th ranked passer rating of quarterbacks that have started at least three games. Meanwhile, much maligned Jake Plummer continues to struggle with inconsistency.

Baltimore is only 28th in total offense at 270.3 yards per game and 27th in passing and will look to exploit an ordinary Denver secondary. The Broncos do have one of the best cover corners in the business, with Champ Bailey manning one side, but Darrent Williams is on the other side and has been a frequent target, especially when opponents need a completion on third down. Safety John Lynch can still be a force on the run game and deliver a big hit; however in standard coverage his decreased lack of speed makes him a liability.

If playmakers are important, then those playing for Brian Billick’s defense are the answer. Ray Lewis is back to health and playing in his customary middle linebacker position, while the secondary has Ed Reed, cornerbacks Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle. The Ravens have been picking away at opposing offenses and are 2nd in total defense and second against the rush. They will receive a stern test against the always steady Denver rush offense. The Broncos are galloping along at 150 yards per game at 4.7 yards per carry. Tatum Bell is doing what Mike Shanahan expected and will need strong ball security against aggressive Ravens attackers.

Denver has gone from a 4-point favorite to a 5.5-point choice at Sportsbook, with a total of 33. The great wild card in all this of course is Plummer. His most recent performance was his best against New England, in passing for 256 yards and two touchdowns. A closer look at the stats shows Plummer still only completed 50 percent of 30 pass attempts. For Denver to win, the Arizona State graduate will have to make more plays.

Denver as mentioned is a great home team and is 33-14 ATS in home games when playing against a team with a winning record. Place the Broncos in the month of October at Invesco Field, playing against teams off back to backs win and they are 10-2 ATS. The Ravens have covered five consecutive times against Denver and will seek to add to that number. Keep in mind Baltimore is 2-10 ATS as underdogs off a victory and facing a rested Denver team.

This will be the only Monday night appearance for either team, with visiting teams 24-15-2 ATS in this exact role. The pads will be cracking in the Mile High City.

View live lines for tonight's matchup at sportsbook.com