3 things that factor into Baltimore Ravens pass rush situation

2. Can the Ravens get inside pass rush?

Inside pass rush would relieve some of the pressure on the outside linebackers and would help the Ravens most against the more stationary passers. Pernell McPhee may be an outside linebacker but his best addition to the team will be knifing through the offensive line on a stunt. His pass rush is more about power and quickness moving in between tackles and guards than it is flying off the edge. Willie Henry is a defensive lineman who can provide inside pass rush if he stays healthy.

Another thing that works for the Ravens is athletic inside linebackers. People forget that Patrick Onwuasor had 5.5 sacks last season. Kenny Young had 2.5 sacks. Blitzing in general will subsidize the pass rushing production for Judon and company. Martindale always likes the threat of pass rush to be the basis for the looks he gives to the offense. Martindale will understand that the less steady that the pass rushing positions are the more blitzing he is going to have to send after the quarterback. Don’t be surprised if Tavon Young and Tony Jefferson have a couple sacks each. Martindale will have to create pass rush if it isn’t naturally there.

Interior pass rush is one element of the defense that can spring outside pass rush free. They can’t double team everybody. It’s basic math. The more defensive players the offensive line has to account for, the harder their job is. The Ravens need McPhee to step up to get interior pressure. He’s more of an outside linebacker/defensive end combo. They need a defensive lineman (hopefully Henry) to push the pocket. Whatever pass rush the Ravens can’t generate organically, Martindale will have to create with stunts and blitzes.