Baltimore Ravens vs. Oakland Raiders: 5 Keys to Victory
By Joe Serpico
Sep 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Elvis Dumervil (58) during the first half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Who Generates Pass Rush With Terrell Suggs Out?
Dean Pees lost the centerpiece to his defense with the loss of Terrell Suggs to a torn Achilles’ tendon. Not only did Pees game plan center around the defense, but opposing offense had to prepare for him as well. Fortunately for Baltimore, they still have one of the best rushers in the league in Elvis Dumervil, but he will likely see a lot of double teams now that Suggs isn’t on the other side.
The Ravens signed Jason Babin to replace Suggs on the 53-man roster, but he’s no longer the presence he once was on the edge. Pees is hopeful that a rotation of Babin, Dumervil, Courtney Upshaw and Za’Darius Smith can bring some of the noise that Suggs has for over a decade. The secondary hasn’t been the team’s strength over the past few seasons and a diminishing pass rush could make things worse in the back end of the defense.
While many think Manning is losing his arm strength, the one thing he certainly has not lost yet is his quick release. The Ravens were able to get to Peyton Manning four times last week and consistently applied pressure on the veteran. Raiders QB Derek Carr has a terrific arm, but does have a tendency to hold the ball in the pocket. Baltimore needs to get pressure on Carr and hope someone steps up for Suggs’ loss.
Next: The Matchup in the Middle