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Ravens: Five Key Players For Success In 2015

By Paul Frances

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Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) gets introduced prior to the game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

2. Terrell Suggs, OLB

The Ravens were eighth in overall defense, fourth in run defense, and 10th in pass defense in 2014. Along with fellow outside linebacker Elvis Dumervil, Suggs was crowned as one half of the league’s top sack duos, racking up 29 sacks between them.

Suggs is a formidable leader and has helped the Ravens’ defense cope with the loss of Baltimore legends Ray Lewis and Ed Reed over the past few seasons. His presence is crucial on the defense.

Historically the Ravens have always had one of the league’s top defenses, and Suggs has been a huge part of that history over the past 12 years with over 500 tackles and 106.5 sacks.

Suggs draws a lot of attention coming off the edge, which often requires double teams just to try to stop him. By taking on two and sometimes even three blockers, this attention allows Elivis Dumervil and fellow pass rushers to be free or get one-on-one attention.

Suggs is an every down linebacker, as he is great against the run as well. He is a match-up nightmare for offenses and has proven to be a game changer many times. He is now in his 30’s, but I think Suggs can play for at least another five years.

We all know the saying that defenses win championships, and it will be Suggs’ job in 2015 to be the heart and soul of the Ravens’ defense. I have no doubt that T-Sizzle will continue to produce next season and I totally expect him and Dumervil to be the top sack duo in the NFL once again.

Next: Joe Flacco

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