Going in, I think we know what to expect from both teams, lots of handoffs. It's not in the Saints best interest to be flinging the ball all over the field against a Raven's D that is 1st in picking off passes.
The Raven's D is 2nd overall in rushing yardage allowed. The Saints D is about 22nd in rushing yardage allowed. Lots of handoffs would be a distinct advantage to the Ravens. That's the kind of game the Ravens would want the Saints to play.
As far as passing goes the Ravens D got 6 of their 11 INTs against Tampa Bay (Simms) and Oakland (Walter coming in for an injured Aaron Brooks), so I think that stat is not indicative of the Ravens D pass coverage abilities.
The Ravens defensive backfield is pretty banged-up. Carolina got 356 yards through the air against the Ravens.
I trust the match-up of a healthy Drew Brees (2006 passer rating 92.8) and his decision-making ability with his play-makers in the passing game versus a very banged-up Steve McNair (2006 passer rating 64.1) coming off of 5 interceptions in the last 2 games who has been showing poor decision making.
IMO Sean Payton will just continue with the same balance on offense that he has shown so far this year and challenge the Ravens to give him a reason to adjust or change his game plan.