The Baltimore Ravens find themselves playing catch-up to the Minnesota Vikings after one half of play in Week 10. They trail 10-9, but are building up a rhythm going into the locker room.
The offense was stagnant for much of the first half, with the offensive line continuing to show glaring issues, and the playcalling was also questionable. Still, quarterback Lamar Jackson and company closed the gap to one point at the end of the second quarter.
The defense also had its typical problems, most notably allowing Minnesota quarterback J.J. McCarthy to have a clean pocket throughout much of the first half. New addition Dre’Mont Jones helped make the second-year pro uncomfortable, but failed to get home in his first two quarters as a Raven.
On the positive side, Baltimore saw their rookie safety Malaki Starks continue his strong play. After sealing a win over the Miami Dolphins in Week 9 with his first career interception, he made it two in a row, picking off McCarthy on a deep ball to wide receiver Justin Jefferson. The Ravens turned that takeaway into points with a 28-yard field goal from Tyler Loop.
Malaki Starks stays hot with strong first half in Minnesota
Through one half of play, Starks is up to three tackles and an interception. His three tackles lead the team thus far. One of those plays included a big-time stop on a 3rd and 13 play to Jefferson that stopped him short of the first down marker and held the Vikings to a field goal by Will Reichard.
This outstanding first half comes off a breakout game in Miami. Along with his first career interception, he finished with five tackles, all solo. He was second on the team in solo tackles.
He also earned his best Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of the season last week, and another one should be coming. He earned a 91.2 overall grade, per PFF, in Week 9, by far his best of the season.
Starks is clearly getting acclimated to the game now. Along with showcasing his ballhawking abilities, he is starting to impress with a quick trigger downhill and encouraging read-and-react skills. It is safe to say he has finally arrived. Baltimore got a good one.