The Baltimore Ravens defeated the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday Night in Baltimore 34-20. Here are the grades that I am giving each major category of the Defense. For the full recap, check out John Pfiefer’s full recap here: Ravens Handle Bengals in Primetime
Defensive Line: A
Another week, another dominating front for the Baltimore Ravens defensive line. This defensive line continues to look as well as advertised in the offseason. They have shown Thursday night that they are able to win up front by winning at the point of attack, pushing the pocket, and making life hard for opposing quarterbacks. Justin Madubuike is the young leader of these guys, recording another sack (9.5). Kyle Van Noy proving that the Ravens didn’t make a mistake with his signing, and both Jadeveon Clowney, and Odafe Oweh adding to the mix recording a sack each. Just another Big week for this front four, which is why they were rewarded an A grade this week.
Linebackers: A
What a bounce back week for the power duo of Patrick Queen and RoQuan Smith. Both were taking out of the game by the Cleveland Brown offensive line the week prior. They were flying to the ball, making their presence known play after play. They both led the way with a combined 22 tackles. Roquan Smith made another point to get back right for this defense. Smith is the engine that keep the Ravens defense going. Roquan has taken on the bad guy image since he became a Raven mid-season in 2022. Patrick Queen follows with an amazing performance. The A is for the bounce back from both Smith and Queen. Not to mention, I loved Roquan Smith postgame statement. “Bye Cincinnati.”
Secondary: A+:
Being without Marlon Humphrey for this game. The Ravens secondary stepped in and made a statement to hold down the fort while Humphrey was out for Thursday game. But, the main reason for the A+ is for the reason myself personally been trying to see from a Ravens secondary. Shut down the opposing teams best player. They did that with Ja’Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd. Even though he had a late touchdown. The Ravens had Chase on locks. Only giving up 2 receptions for 12 yards. Also, holding Tyler Boyd to 3 catches for 22 yards. That was very impressive for the Ravens secondary that has issues stopping other teams best player. Also, the resurgence of Marcus Williams not being afraid to risk himself. Excelling in situations in which he struggled in, like tackling in space and deflecting passes, since coming back from his injury. The A+ is for the secondary ability to shut down Ja’Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd even though it wasn’t a easy task.
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