Team Grades: Ravens Rally To Take Down Browns
Baltimore (WJZ) -- The Baltimore Ravens (2-0) rallied from a 20-point first quarter deficit to stun the Cleveland Browns (0-2) 25-20 on Sunday afternoon. There were plenty of miscues throughout the game from both teams. But the Ravens willed themselves to victory thanks to big-time plays from key players.
Offense Grade: B-
The Ravens made it known in the off-season that an emphasis would be placed on the running game. But so far in 2016, the running game has been a bit of a disappointment. Some of it falls on the play of the offensive line, but the running backs have been far from spectacular. Justin Forsett carried the ball 14 times for only 37 yards. Terrance West was slightly better with 42 yards on 11 rushes. To be fair, Baltimore was unable to establish the run game due to the early deficit.
Because of the deficit, the Ravens leaned heavily on the arm of Joe Flacco and he didn't disappoint. He was 25 of 45 with 302 yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. The first interception came on an ill-advised throw that Joe Haden capitalized on. The second came on a deep pass attempt to Breshad Perriman that Joe Haden again capitalized on. Next time these teams play, Flacco should probably stay away from that guy.
Mike Wallace scored 2 touchdowns and is slowly silencing his critics with his exceptional play. Dennis Pitta has emerged once again as Flacco's security blanket as he hauled in 9 receptions for 102 yards.
Defense Grade: C
The first quarter was as bad as it gets for a defense. Corey Coleman grabbed 2 touchdowns in that time frame to go along with an 85 yard run down the middle of the Ravens defense by Isaiah Crowell. But once the Ravens offense began to put points on the board themselves, the defense made sure Cleveland didn't reach the endzone again. The defense totally shut out the Browns offense in the final three quarters of play. Eric Weddle and C.J. Mosley grabbed big time interceptions to help seal the victory.
Shareece Wright was a man possessed in Week 1 but failed to show up in a positive way for the majority of the contest. Michael Pierce and Timmy Jernigan are playing lights out football whereas Terrell Suggs is a complete non-factor on defense.
Special Teams Grade: A+
Sam Koch is such an important asset for the Baltimore Ravens. His ability to shift field position with one boot is severely underrated. Of course the special teams play that everyone will be talking about is the blocked extra point in the first quarter that gave Baltimore 2 points and much needed momentum.
Justin Tucker was a perfect 3/3 including a huge 52 yard field goal kick. Devin Hester looks like he's getting more comfortable with the unit and it feels as if it's only a matter of time before he breaks one for a touchdown.
Coaching Grade: C+
The game-plan for this game should be trashed and burned. Maybe it was the play-calling or perhaps it was the execution. Regardless, it didn't work. But the adjustments made by the coaching staff did work and they should be commended for it. Marc Trestman needs to find a way to get the offense going early and quickly. Too much talent on the roster for Baltimore to be playing from behind like they did on Sunday.
