After starting out 3-0, there hasn't been much to be happy about for Baltimore Ravens fans. The defence has been shelled, the offence has struggled, and they had a midseason record of 4-4. If they are looking to make a serious playoff run, than the time is now to string some wins together.

On the other hand, you have the Indianapolis Colts. Unbeaten through the mid-point of the year, the Colts come off a tough game against the New England Patriots. Peyton Manning continues to play at a high level, but the defence can only do so much with all the injuries it has endured.

When looking at the American Football Conference playoff picture, usually a team needs at least 10 wins to get in. At least. That means the Ravens need to go 6-2 in the second half of the year, and I just can't see it. But, that's the joy of the NFL, you never know what is going to happen on a given week.

Key Matchups

1. Peyton Manning vs. Joe Flacco: The quarterbacks in this one come from completely different ends of the spectrum. Manning has been an All-Star since coming into the league, while Flacco has really made strides in his second season.

2. Joseph Addai vs. Ray Rice: The running backs come in with similar situations. Neither were supposed to be starters, let alone big parts of their respective offences. Addai re-gained his starting role, and has (literally) ran with it. Rice took over a couple weeks in, and has been one of the best RBs in football.

3. Ed Reed vs. Dallas Clark: Clark is one of the most versatile tight ends in the game. He is impossible to cover with a linebacker. That is where Reed comes in. As one of the best safeties in the NFL, Reed will have the responsibility (or punishment) of shutting down Manning's favourite target.

The Rundown

Basically this one comes down to how the Baltimore offence will be able to keep up with Manning and the Colts. If the Ravens can hold them under 30 points, they have a shot. This is easier said than done. I see the Ravens keeping it close for a while, but fading late. I'll take the Colts 35-21.

Next week brings us arguably the best Monday Night Football game of the season.

For more from the NFL Czar, visit his blog at jvzsblog.blogspot.com.