Aug 28, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Ryan Griffin (4) makes a throw under pressure from Baltimore Ravens linebackers D.J. Roberts (49) and John Simon (94) in the second quarter of their game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
The fourth preseason games are often a snore fest, filled with sloppy play and players who often find themselves on the unemployment line by the next morning. What we saw Thursday night against the Saints was not. What we did see was an entertaining football game, at least if you are not a Saints fan.
While it ultimately means nothing outside of roster shuffling, Thursday night’s matchup was classic smash mouth football on behalf of the Baltimore Ravens. They controlled the clock, ran the ball effectively, and played solid defense, especially against the run.
The passing offense was sufficient, but not flashy. There were no huge plays or acrobatic catches, and that’s OK. Because football games can be and are won in the trenches, and both the offensive and defensive fronts of the Ravens did a bang up job of holding the line of scrimmage against the Saints.
As we always do, we have given out grades to each Ravens position group. Take a look at how each contributed to the final of what was a perfect preseason.
Next: Offense