Ebony Bird
FanSided

Baltimore Ravens: 5 Reason Why They Can Be Contenders In 2017

By Joe Schiller

Dec 18, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) kicks a 53 yard field goal in the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) kicks a 53 yard field goal in the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 6
Next
NFL: Preseason-Detroit Lions at Baltimore Ravens
NFL: Preseason-Detroit Lions at Baltimore Ravens /

A Solid Defense

The Ravens finished the season ranked as 7th best defense in the NFL.

The run defense was a brick wall, holding players like Ezekiel Elliot, Jay Ajayi, Le’Veon Bell to under 100 yards. Brandon Williams and Timmy Jernigan stood up offensive lineman all season. C.J. Mosley and Zach Orr were tackling machines. The pass rush was a problem at times, but that issue has been addressed by the coaches and front office. They will be looking to add a push rusher through the draft.

While the secondary even seemed to be bad at times, they played well for what they had. Pro Football Focus ranked the Ravens secondary as the 10th best in the league. That may be surprising to some, but it makes sense. When Jimmy Smith is healthy, he is one of the best corner-backs in the NFL. The addition of Eric Weddle was huge and he was a ball-hawk in the back half of the field. Do not also forget Tavon Young, who had a very good season.

The secondary is one play-maker away from being great and that could be fixed in the draft or in free agency.

Home/Ravens News