RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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The Baltimore Ravens did not leave two joint practices with the Minnesota Vikings without concerns. Their offense had trouble handling Minnesota’s pressure packages, and center Danny Pinter sustained a torn patellar tendon that is expected to end his season.
Still, Baltimore’s defense provided a significant reason for optimism.
The Ravens ’ secondary held its own against a Minnesota passing attack featuring Justin Jefferson, one of the NFL’s most difficult receivers to defend. Marlon Humphrey broke up two passes intended for Jefferson during the opening session and continued his strong work Thursday. Nate Wiggins also produced tight coverage, including a pass breakup that nearly became an interception.
Humphrey said Wednesday’s session featured the best work he had seen from a Ravens defense during his 10 seasons in Baltimore. That assessment carries weight for a veteran who has played on several physical and productive units.
The performance offered an encouraging look at what Baltimore could become under head coach Jesse Minter and defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. The Ravens played fast, communicated well and challenged Minnesota’s receivers throughout the two sessions. The work was not flawless. Minnesota found success in certain situations, giving Minter teaching points before the regular season.
Baltimore’s strength, however, appears to be a deep and versatile secondary built around Humphrey, Wiggins, Kyle Hamilton and Malaki Starks. If that group can consistently survive difficult one-on-one matchups, Minter will have greater freedom to pressure quarterbacks and disguise coverages.
The offense has corrections to make, but the defense’s energy, physicality and confidence were the clearest reasons for optimism coming out of Minnesota.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Biggest reason for optimism after Ravens-Vikings joint practices
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