Baltimore Ravens: Midseason Grades for Every Player

Quarterbacks

Oct 26, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) looks on from the sidelines during the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals won 27-24. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Joe Flacco – B+

As seems to be the case every year, there have been many ups and downs for Joe Flacco.

On one hand, Flacco has taken over some games, which is something he hadn’t done since the 2013 playoffs. He has also cut down on the turnovers, having only thrown seven interceptions through eight games. Flacco has taken to Gary Kubiak‘s offense better than anyone expected, looking comfortable with the quick reads the offense requires.

On the other hand, Flacco has put up some real stinkers, including multi-interception games in each of the past two games. Flacco has been especially bad on the road, with his two worst games coming in Indianapolis and Cincinnati. That’s not new, but it is still troubling.

All in all, Flacco has been better than expected for the most part. He looks more like 2010 Flacco than 2013 Flacco, and that’s a very good thing. He has more help now, but Flacco deserves credit for elevating his game as well.

Tyrod Taylor – D

Every year, Ravens fans clamor for a new backup quarterback. Every year, Tyrod Taylor returns to continue to make Ravens fans pray for Flacco’s health.

In his only action this season, Taylor fumbled a snap. No one has confidence in his ability to take over the team should Flacco ever be hurt.