Ravens defense is ready for more success against Deshaun Watson

As the Baltimore Ravens prepare to take on the Cleveland Browns in a pivotal home division game on Sunday, Nov. 12, they’ll be facing a quarterback who hasn't had much fun against the always-impressive defense of the Ravens throughout his career—Deshaun Watson. 

The former Clemson Tiger standout has faced the Ravens three times since being drafted in 2017, two as a member of the Houston Texans and one with the Cleveland Browns.

He's 1-2 against his now divisional rival, with the only win coming in an ugly 13-3 slugfest in Week 15 of last season. Watson finished 18 of 28 for 161 yards and a touchdown. Tyler Huntley was Baltimore's quarterback in that matchup.

Even though Watson came out victorious in last year's matchup, his stats were forgettable. This has been a common trend when he's faced the Ravens. In his three games against Baltimore, Watson is averaging 201.7 passing yards, less than one touchdown (0.7), and an 82.1 passer rating. For his career, he's averaged 254.5 passing yards, nearly 2 touchdowns, and a 101.2 passer rating

It wouldn't be surprising if Watson's 34-point loss against the Ravens in 2019 occasionally makes an appearance in his nightmares. Watson and the Texans had no answer for Baltimore's stout defense, giving up seven sacks and committing two turnovers—an interception and a fumble by Watson. He finished the game with a QBR of 13.6

Only averaging 8.7 points a game against the Ravens, Watson may have trouble putting points on the board against a scary defense. This season, Baltimore allows the least amount of points per contest (13.8). That number drops to 10.0 when playing at home.

While the Ravens have the edge on paper, anything goes in the always entertaining AFC North. Look for the Ravens defensive unit to continue their historic start, hoping to hand Watson another loss and increase their lead atop the AFC North.

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