Baltimore Ravens vs Cincinnati Bengals: Position by Position Grades

Linebackers

Sep 7, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Jermaine Gresham (84) tackled after his catch by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Daryl Smith (51) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

This group has been the most consistent throughout the preseason.

That is what I said in my grades for the game back in week three against the Washington Redskins. That statement remained true in Week 1 of the regular season.

The Ravens leading tackler was veteran Daryl Smith, who totaled nine tackles, including four solo. He should continue to be the anchor of the defense this year as he was last season.

Rookie linebacker C.J. Mosley continued his impressive play from the preseason into the regular season. He recorded an impressive seven tackles in his first professional game, and he defended one of only five passes for the Ravens on the day.

Others to record tackles were outside linebacker Terrell Suggs (five tackles), Courtney Upshaw (three tackles), and Elvis Dumervil (one tackle).

Grade – A-