49ers vs. Ravens: 5 matchups to watch in potential Super Bowl preview

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: The Baltimore Ravens center the ball at the line of scrimmage on a point after attempt against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Ravens won 34-31. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

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Jimmy Garoppolo Mike Person Mike McGlinchey 49ers

Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10, Mike Person #68 and Mike McGlinchey #69 of the San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

No. 4: Mike McGlinchey vs. Matt Judon

While nowhere near as prolific as the 49ers pass rush, the Ravens have shown a decent enough ability to get to opponents’ quarterbacks this season.

After sacking the Rams’ Jared Goff twice in Week 12, Baltimore now has 25 sacks on the season, which ranks 24th best. On paper, it would appear San Francisco has the edge here. But that doesn’t mean the Niners offensive line can afford to relax in its efforts to protect Jimmy Garoppolo.

One of the key matchups to watch here is right tackle Mike McGlinchey and his bout with Ravens defensive end Matt Judon, who leads the Ravens with seven sacks on the year.

McGlinchey, who only recently returned from a knee injury, has struggled in pass protection during his second year at the pro level. According to Pro Football Focus, McGlinchey has already allowed three sacks and 17 quarterback pressures despite missing four games this season.

With the Ravens likely trying to take away San Francisco’s ground game, Garoppolo will be forced to test the pass defense, meaning keeping Judon at bay will be crucial for the 49ers’ passing efforts.