Patriots ready for showdown with Ravens

FOXBORO (WHDH) -- Whether it's through the air or on the ground, Brady knows the Pats are in for a tough battle fight this Sunday night in Baltimore.

“It always comes down to the end with these guys. I don’t think we’ve ever had an easy game against these guys. They make you run every yard you get,” Brady said.

Especially when you’re dealing with two of the best defenders ever: Ray Lewis and Ed Reed.

“Physical, aggressive, veterans, they’re ball hogs and it’s not very often that you have a defense that when they get the ball in their hand they can actually start putting points on the board,” said Brandon Lloyd, Patriots receiver.

“They’re very, very, talented players. They play well within their scheme. They complement each other very well,” said Brady.

As long as Ray Lewis and Ed Reed are suiting up, the Ravens will always be synonymous with defense, commanding attention from opposing offenses. But this week, Baltimore may put just as much pressure on the Patriots’ defense.

Quarterback Joe Flacco is leading a new look, no huddle, and highly powerful Ravens attack.

“Our hands are full up front dealing with this whole Ravens offense. They’re explosive everywhere,” said Vince Wilfork, Patriots defensive captain. Once again, we’re going to have to play almost a perfect game.”

However, the Ravens fifth-year quarterback has been called anything but perfect for much of his career. Although this year, with the help of a no-huddle offense, Flacco is taking flight.

“He definitely has some experience. He’s a heck of a quarterback. He seems to be going towards reads and things like that really well, spreads the ball around so yeah, he’s an experienced, really good quarterback,” said Steve Gregory, Patriots safety.

Although the advantage under center will always lie in the Patriots’ favor.