The Baltimore Ravens have been noticeably better across the board when it comes to their run defense, pass defense, and getting after the quarterback when compared to their defense last season.
Dean Pees gang has even generated 22 sacks on the season through their first six games, the most the unit has ever generated through six games in franchise history.
All of that is well, and good, but where are the forced turnovers?
The Ravens’ defense had their opportunities last week against the Green Bay Packers when Ravens’ outside linebacker Elvis Dumervil forced two fumbles while sacking Packers’ quarterback Aaron Rodgers yet the Packers were able to recover both of them.
Wasted opportunities.
The Ravens’ defense only has seven forced turnovers on the season, which may be a sign that they lack play-making abilities especially at safety. Neither Matt Elam nor James Ihedigbo has a forced turnover so far this campaign.
Do the Ravens miss Ed Reed?
That’s debatable but the secondary has been a weak spot. Despite the pressure up front the Ravens defensive backfield has produced just 2 interceptions (Graham, J. Smith) but lead the NFL in 10 passing plays of over 40 yards.
This week the Ravens’ defense has the opportunity to right the ship as they face the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ben Roethlisberger has nine turnovers in five games this season with five of them coming from interceptions, and four by way of fumbles.
Can the Ravens’ defense get back to their attacking ways on all levels?
Who Knows?
The Ravens don’t seem to wake up much on the road during the regular season. But they do wake up for the Steelers.
