The Baltimore Ravens 41-31 win over the Buccaneers was an offensive clinic, but it came with potential setbacks. Lamar Jackson continues to shine, putting up 281 yards and five touchdowns, making a third MVP trophy look like his to lose.
And Derrick Henry? He exploded for 169 rushing yards, capped by an 81-yard sprint that added yet another highlight to his historic season.
But while the defense managed to stop the run, they struggled in coverage once again. Despite having the league's worst pass defense, they’ve found a way to win five straight. Just think what could happen once they tighten things up.
The biggest factor behind Baltimore's winning streak has been its remarkable health. The Ravens have been among the NFL’s healthiest teams this season, but that could change quickly based on this week’s injury report.
Final Ravens injury report for Week 8 against the Cleveland Browns
The final report showed some improvement but also had one major name still in the "DNP" category.
Marlon Humphrey, who had two interceptions last week, injured his knee awkwardly while making a jaw-dropping, physics-defying grab on the second one. Though he walked off to the locker room on his own, it was quickly announced that he wouldn’t return to the game. Unfortunately, we're just as much in the grey as we were earlier in the week.
Great news came through this afternoon as Zay Flowers returned to practice in a limited role. Suffice it to say that the passing attack should be in full form. He was seen dancing at the beginning of practice which is awesome. The offense has been the Ravens' calling card this season, so they'll need everyone healthy to keep up the historic pace and not get caught by a struggling Browns team.
Did not participate:
- CB - Marlon Humphrey (knee)
- RB - Rasheen Ali (ankle)
- CB - T.J. Tampa (ankle)
Limited participation:
- DT - Travis Jones (ankle)
- CB - Nate Wiggins (illness)
- WR - Zay Flowers (ankle)
- RB - Keaton Mitchell (knee)
The Ravens' injury picture is still cloudy as they prepare for their Week 8 matchup against the Browns.
While rookie cornerback Nate Wiggins was limited in practice once again but looked ready, the same can’t be said again for defensive standout Travis Jones.
Jones was present, but reports suggest his movement was still limited due to an ankle injury. It feels more and more likely Jones will miss the game against Cleveland.
On a more positive note, cornerbacks Arthur Maulet (knee) and Jalyn Armour-Davis (hamstring) were both full participants again. This depth will be vital if Marlon Humphrey, who didn’t practice again today, can’t suit up against Cleveland or if Wiggins faces any last-minute setbacks.
The Ravens will be counting on the availability of Jones, Humphrey, and second-year sensation Zay Flowers, who remains a crucial piece of the offense. With Cleveland sitting at 1-6, it might be tempting to assume an easy win, but Baltimore knows better than to underestimate any opponent.
Having their top contributors healthy will be massive in maintaining momentum and extending their five-game win streak.