Ravens-Commanders preseason finale: 10 matchups with roster implications

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The Ravens are hours away from hosting their final preseason game of the summer, and fans in the DMV will be treated to action from their local NFL teams with roster spots and regular-season roles potentially on the line. Baltimore's passing game will be tested, as Washington has intercepted four passes and recorded six sacks through two preseason games. The Commanders have also allowed 286 rushing yards, giving Declan Doyle and the Ravens something to focus on.

Washington quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis has also completed 17 of 24 passes for 249 yards without an interception, giving the Ravens' young defensive backs another reason to come prepared.

With kickoff fast approaching, we're looking at ten matchups to watch.

1. Joe Fagnano vs. Washington's secondary

The Commanders have allowed opponents to complete 24 of 49 passes, with four interceptions and no passing touchdowns in two preseason games. Fagnano needs to recognize when a throwing window closes and accept the checkdown routes for shorter completions. Safety Quan Martin has two interceptions and could be a player to watch for Washington if he is part of Friday's rotation.

2. Carson Vinson vs. Joshua Josephs

Josephs recovered a fumble for a touchdown against Detroit. Vinson needs to control the initial rush without becoming vulnerable inside.

3. Jovaughn Gwyn vs. Maurice Hurst II

Hurst has two preseason sacks, making him a useful test for Baltimore's interior protection. Gwyn must work with his guards to identify and pass off movement. Pressure through the middle can disrupt the play before the quarterback reaches his second read.

4. Elijah Sarratt vs. Fred Davis II

Both players are seeking opportunities in crowded position groups. For Sarratt, the issue is creating enough separation against NFL defenders.

5. Josh Cuevas vs. Jordan Magee

Cuevas' route depth and recognition of zone coverage will matter, as will his ability to make contested catches when defenders close out. Baltimore also needs to see him execute blocks when the same personnel stays on the field.

6. Ethan Burke vs. Brandon Coleman

If their snaps overlap, Coleman provides a test of Burke's ability to win after the first move is stopped. Burke also must maintain outside contain against the run.

7. Adisa Isaac vs. Nicholas Petit-Frere

Isaac needs productive snaps in a competition with little available space. Petit-Frere is among Washington's tackle options, making this a potential test of Isaac's counters and hand use.

8. Rayshaun Benny vs. Matt Gulbin

Benny's task is to resist movement at the line and prevent the center from reaching Baltimore's linebackers cleanly. Washington has handed the ball to Kaytron Allen 33 times this preseason, so its reserve interior line has had substantial work establishing the run.

9. Jay Higgins IV vs. Kaytron Allen

Allen has 115 rushing yards and a touchdown on those 33 carries. Higgins needs to identify the correct gap and finish without allowing extra yardage after contact. Strong positioning would give Baltimore a clearer answer about its depth behind the leading inside linebackers.

10. T.J. Tampa Jr. vs. Nick Nash

Nash has two catches for 62 yards, including a 55-yard reception. Tampa needs to stay disciplined when the receiver threatens vertically, then locate the ball without panicking.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens-Commanders preseason finale: 10 matchups with roster implications

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