The Baltimore Ravens cannot afford to focus exclusively on the stars who typically define the CincinnatiBengals' offense, even though most discussions start there. Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins deserve plenty of attention. Still, Cincinnati has other contributors who can change a game if Baltimore loses track of its responsibilities.
Those secondary threats can turn a promising Ravens defensive series into an extended drive or create the kind of momentum shift that decides a divisional matchup. Cincinnati also has defenders who can disrupt Baltimore's plans, force difficult decisions, and capitalize on Ravens mistakes.
Sure, preparing for the most recognizable names is essential, but the less-discussed players could prove just as
important when the teams meet in Week 7. Samaje Perine leads a group of Bengals offensive players worth watching closely. The Bengals' linebacker corps also has a potential game-wrecker
Barrett Carter, linebacker
Barrett Carter's production reflects an ability to affect several areas of Cincinnati's defense. He has recorded 41 tackles, including 19 solo stops, along with 1.5 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble. Those numbers show that he can contribute against the run, pressure the quarterback, and make plays in coverage.
For Baltimore, Carter presents a challenge because his impact is not limited to one type of assignment. The Ravens must identify where he is aligned and account for his ability to attack the backfield, particularly when the offense is trying to establish its rhythm. If Carter can disrupt plays before they develop, he could put Baltimore behind the chains and make subsequent downs more difficult. Keep an eye on him and Demetrius Knight Jr. on the second level.
Samaje Perine, running back
Samaje Perine gives Cincinnati a dependable option as a runner and receiver, giving the Bengals another way to move the chains when defenses focus on their top playmakers. He has rushed for 110 yards on 27 carries, averaging 4.1 yards per attempt, while adding seven receptions for 61 yards and a touchdown. Twelve of his 34 touches have resulted in first downs, demonstrating his ability to help Cincinnati sustain possessions.
Baltimore must be prepared for Perine to contribute in different situations rather than treating him as a traditional backup running back. His receiving production can create difficult assignments for linebackers, while his effectiveness on the ground gives Cincinnati another option to win manageable down-and-distance situations. If the Ravens devote too much attention to the passing game, Perine could make them pay for leaving underneath or between-the-tackles opportunities available.
Dohnte Meyers, wide receiver
Dohnte Meyers has quietly given Cincinnati another productive option in the passing game, recording 13 receptions for 141 yards. Nine of those catches have produced first downs, and two have gained at least 20 yards. His 74 yards after the catch rank third among Bengals pass-catchers, highlighting his ability to create additional yardage after securing the football.
That production makes Meyers worth tracking when Baltimore works to contain Cincinnati's primary receivers. The Ravens cannot allow completions to turn into extended gains because of missed tackles or poor pursuit angles. Limiting Meyers after the catch would help Baltimore finish defensive plays and force the Bengals to work harder for every first down.
Jordan Battle, safety
Jordan Battle has been productive in Cincinnati's secondary, leading the team with 21 solo tackles and ranking third with 32 total tackles. He has also recorded three interceptions and four pass breakups, making him a safety who can contribute near the line of scrimmage and create turnovers in coverage.
His takeaway production matters most against an offense led by Lamar Jackson. Baltimore needs to protect the football while finding ways to attack downfield, and Battle's ability to break up passes or intercept throws can punish mistakes. The Ravens must recognize his positioning and avoid forcing the ball into coverage to chase a big play.
Cedric Johnson, defensive end
Cedric Johnson has emerged as another pass-rushing option for Cincinnati, recording two sacks despite working behind Myles Murphy and Boye Mafe in the defensive-line rotation. Jonathan Allen, Mafe and Dexter Lawrence have each recorded three sacks, putting Johnson within striking distance of the team's leading group.
His production matters because Baltimore must account for more than Cincinnati's most prominent pass rushers when protecting Jackson. Rotational players can exploit tired blockers, favorable matchups, and passing situations that let them attack the quarterback. Johnson's ability to generate pressure without a starting role gives the Bengals another defender who could disrupt Baltimore's offensive rhythm.
The Ravens will have their hands full with Cincinnati's headline players, but the lesser-mentioned Bengals weapons will also test their ability to account for contributors across the roster. Perine's versatility, Meyers' production after the catch, and the defensive impact of Carter, Battle, and Johnson give the Bengals several ways to influence the outcome. Baltimore's attention to detail could determine whether those threats remain manageable or become the difference in Week 7.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Five Bengals beyond the stars the Ravens must account for in Week 7
