Baltimore Beatdown
Welcome back to another editions of 5 Questions, a weekly collaboration with other SB Nation sites to preview the Ravens’ upcoming matchups. This week, the Los Angeles Rams are coming to Baltimore, so Evan Craig of Turf Show Times is on hand to answer Baltimore Beatdown’s questions about Week 6.
Also, check out Baltimore Beatdown’s responses to Turf Show Times’ questions about the Ravens!
1. The Ravens have a struggling defense at every level. The Rams could likely attack them however they want. What specific ways do you see the Rams attacking this defense?
Just breathing and showing up on the field.
(Almost) kidding there, but I see the Rams just continuing to go pass-happy in attacking the Ravens’ defense. Matthew Stafford is averaging 29 passing attempts per game, including 98 attempts in the last two games against the Colts and 49ers. There were many legit concerns about Stafford’s health entering the season, yet he’s been off to the best start of his L.A. career since his first year in Hollywood. Passing at will primarily to Puka Nacua and Davante Adams has been the team’s most consistent offensive strategy so far this season, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.
As for the ground game, that part of the offense hasn’t been as efficient … yet. Kyren Williams has had his moments and Blake Corum has also joined in on the fun on occasion. I think since the Ravens have been so bad on defense, this would be the perfect week to establish the run more consistently as the Rams inch closer to their bye. But generally, expect L.A. to pass early and often on Sunday.
2. The Ravens have been awful at keeping their quarterback protected, allowing a massive number of sacks, even when Lamar Jackson was back there trying to avoid them. Outside of Jared Verse, who else on the Rams could wreak havoc in the backfield on Sunday?
Linebacker Byron Young has been a menace for opposing quarterbacks this season, as he leads the team with 5.5 sacks through five games. He also has 10 QB hits, which is one behind Verse for the team lead. Young has excellent closing speed and can seriously chase down anyone when he has the opportunity. Other than Young, Defensive ends Kobie Turner or Braden Fiske, who amazingly hasn’t recorded a sack by the way, are two other guys to watch. There is so much young talent on this side of the ball for the Rams that it could really be anyone wreaking havoc in the backfield on a given week.
3. Conversely, is there a clear weak spot along the Rams’ offensive line that the Ravens could attack to give their anemic pass rush some life?
The offensive line has been a complicated issue for the Rams through these first few weeks, as nine different players have suited up for L.A.’s O-line so far. Continuity has been the main culprit due to injuries along the line. Steve Avila, Beaux...
