Special teams will be a determining factor
If the Ravens defense is to be feared, even slightly, there will be greater emphasis on special teams play, both in terms of playmaking and ball security. With a plethora of veteran returners at coach Bill Belichick’s disposal (Julian Edelman, Wes Welker, Danny Woodhead, Kevin Faulk), the Patriots are in a position to be conservative and play mistake free. But expect the Ravens to come in and aggressively strip at the ball to win the turnover battle. That aggressiveness will provide opportunities for some big plays by the Patriots. They have to take advantage.