The Ravens’ defense has shown flashes of dominance this season, but we will find out exactly what they’re all about after these last four games.
The Vikings have a one-dimensional offense, but that one dimension—Adrian Peterson—is enough to win games on its own. The other three teams after that—Detroit, New England, and Cincinnati—all have dynamic playmakers all over the field.
While the Ravens also have their share of playmakers on defense, seldom have they had all facets come together in one game. It seems as though either the pass defense or rush defense performs well, but not both. Aside from a recent victory over the Jets—a team that can’t get out of its own way offensively—it’s been a while.
With the long-anticipated emergence of Jimmy Smith, complimentary corner play from Lardarius Webb, and solid physical play from safeties Matt Elam and James Ihedigbo, the secondary is as hot as it’s been all season. However, the previously-lethal pass rush duo of Terrell Suggs and Elvis Dumervil couldn’t even seem to get a finger on Ben Roethlisberger last week, who is protected by one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL. Go figure.
The time is now for the Ravens defense to put it all together. The pieces are all in place, but it’s just a matter of winning match-ups across the board. They say that to be the best, you have to beat the best; well, the Ravens will certainly have their opportunities as they close out the season against some of the most explosive offenses in the NFL.
