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Every week, blogger Matt Vensel breaks down a critical play, sometimes with the help of Ravens players, from that week's game. Today, he looks at Ravens safety Bernard Pollard's hit on New England Patriots running back Stevan Ridley in Sunday's AFC championship game.

Every week, I hope to bring you a quick Q&A with someone who covers the Ravens' opponent that week. On Sunday night, the Ravens host the New England Patriots in a rematch of the AFC championship game. Since it's such a big game for both teams, let's go with double coverage this week. I chatted with Shalise Manza Young of The Boston Globe and Jeff Howe of The Boston Herald about a few hot topics entering Sunday night.

During a 24-23 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles, the Ravens converted none of their six short-yardage opportunities on third and fourth downs. In each situation, offensive coordinator Cam Cameron called for a pass instead of running Rice behind fullback Vonta Leach and right guard Marshal Yanda.

Baltimore Ravens safety Bernard Pollard has a rib contusion