Trenton Simpson understands the challenge Cincinnati’s receivers present. The Ravens linebacker also likes the players Baltimore has available to meet it. Ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the Bengals, Simpson expressed confidence in cornerbacks Nate Wiggins and Marlon Humphrey as they prepare for Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Cincinnati’s passing game.

“This is the game where you challenge Ja’Marr Chase, you challenge Tee Higgins,” Simpson said, according to Jamison Hensley. “And I like our guys. I love Nate Wiggins and I love Marlon Humphrey.”

The matchup puts Baltimore’s cornerback group under the microscope as the Ravens try to rebound from their Cleveland loss. Cincinnati arrives after its bye, giving Joe Burrow and the offense more time to prepare for the divisional contest.

Advertisement

Chase and Higgins have both dominated the Baltimore Ravens throughout their careers. In 10 career games against Baltimore, Ja’Marr Chase has 75 receptions for 1,204 yards and 8 touchdowns. In 8 career games against the Ravens, Tee Higgins has 41 receptions for 497 yards and 6 touchdowns.

Simpson’s confidence doesn’t reveal Baltimore’s coverage assignments or how often the Ravens will use man coverage. Those decisions will depend on personnel availability, formations, and the defensive plan. But how well the Ravens can compete against Chase and Higgins will shape the options available to Jesse Minter. Effective coverage can give the pass rush time to finish, while pressure can prevent Burrow from waiting for receivers to separate.

Baltimore also needs to finish tackles and limit the damage after completions. Forcing Cincinnati to sustain drives would create more opportunities for sacks, penalties, or unsuccessful third downs that end a possession.

Simpson has made his belief in the secondary clear. Sunday will test whether the Ravens can turn that confidence into a division victory.

Advertisement

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Trenton Simpson backs Ravens’ corners against Chase and Higgins