Ravens Vs. Lions: Top 3 Things We Want To See

A Better Start from the First-Team Secondary

The first team defense has been mediocre the past two games, being extremely easy to move the ball against. The team’s saving grace has been that they stiffen up considerably in the red zone, not allowing a touchdown in either of Cam Newton or Andrew Luck’s drives.

We want to see a better showing from the secondary. The run defense has been relatively decent, but when teams faced third and long, they almost always converted through the air. The chemistry between Lardarius Webb and Eric Weddle must be established.

We can give some slack due to the fact that the defense. The first two preseason games are not game planned. it’s just concerning to see the Ravens’ corners getting beat in simple man coverage.

Jimmy Smith looks like he’s moving with more fluidly, with regained confidence in his foot. Shareece Wright is playing decently. That being said he is still getting picked on. It is because Wright plays the man, rather than the ball. He will almost always have tight coverage, but he will very rarely grab any interceptions.

The nickel position is the most concerning of the starting defense. Jerraud Powers has not looked good at all, Kyle Arrington is injured, and Tavon Young is a fourth-round rookie, albeit a talented one. Someone has to step up and assume the starting duties, since offenses are trending towards more three receiver sets.

Against Matthew Stafford and Golden Tate, the Ravens’ secondary has to be on their A-game. They are two elite play makers who will make you pay if the secondary is even a little out of position.

Next: Young Pass Rushers