The Baltimore Ravens come into this season with one of the most talented defenses in the NFL. They are already showing that so far.
Defense wins championships, right? That’s certainly how the Baltimore Ravens are approaching the 2017 season.
General manager Ozzie Newsome and the Ravens front office have followed that mantra this offseason. Whether it was free agency or the NFL draft, it was defense, defense and more defense. This bothered some because the lack of attention away from the offense. But as we’ve already seen this preseason, the defensive unit is showing signs of dominance.
Who the Ravens added:
Brandon Carr (CB)- Free Agency
Tony Jefferson (S)- Free Agency
Lardarius Webb (CB/S)- Resigned Free Agency
Brandon William (DT)- Resigned Free Agency
Marlon Humphrey (CB)- NFL Draft
Chris Wormley (DE)- NFL Draft
Tim Williams (OLB)- NFL Draft
Tyus Bowser (OLB)- NFL Draft
The additions are solid in free agency and the draft. Brandon Carr and Tony Jefferson are huge additions to the secondary. For a group that’s been labeled as the weak link of the defense over the years, they are now arguably the strongest. Eric Weddle and Jefferson are on par with the best safety duos in the league, there’s no question about it. The Ravens lost out on Kyle Juszczyk and Rick Wagner, but still secured one of their heralded free agents. Brandon Williams and Michael Pierce will be a brick wall this season. Any offensive line will have trouble moving the two 340 pound boys up front.
What excites me the most about this defense is not only the veterans, but the young talent coming in. Tyus Bowser is quickly proving why he was the best pass coverage outside linebacker in the draft. His athleticism has no bounds and he is also a major presence as a puss rusher. While we haven’t seen much from Marlon Humphrey and Tim Williams yet, their potential is through the rough. Dean Pees and the defensive coaches will mold them and show them how to play Ravens defense.
A look at the numbers:
Total Defense (YPG)- 129.0
Passing (YPG)- 86.5
Rushing (YPG)- 42.5
I know it’s the preseason and it’s early, but it’s hard to not get excited with how well the defense has been playing. In two wins against the Redskins and Dolphins the Ravens have allowed just a total of 10 points. What impresses me the most is the ability of the second and third units. Granted they are also coming up against backups, but they are getting the job done. We haven’t seen the defensive intensity let up even when the starters leave the field. It’s allowed undrafted free agents like Jaylen Hill and Pat Ricard to showcase their talents. They not only have a chance to make the 53-man roster, but also be key contributors this season.
With how shaky the offense is expected to be, the Ravens are going to rely heavily on the defense this year. This shouldn’t be much a surprise to anyone. We knew this coming in this season, regardless of the injuries that have occurred. And besides, the Ravens have built their reputation on a defensive first mentality. Just ask the 2000 Super Bowl team.
I’m not sure any defense today can match up to that unit, but if everyone stays healthy, the Ravens will be a top five unit. Dean Pees has to be laughing in his office knowing the amount of pieces he has to work this this season.
Let’s just say, opposing offenses are going to have a rough time coming on to the field this season.