Baltimore Ravens desperate defence situation worries coach John Harbaugh, players – NFL News
The Baltimore Ravens are desperate to consolidate their defensive line strength with whatever left into it as the increasing number of injuries has made it difficult for coach John Harbaugh to deal with.
From linebacker Ray Lewis to LB Terrell Suggs, the list extends to some of even rookie players. The Ravens are 9-4 in American Football Conference (AFC) North and just at the edge of the playoffs. Their recent defeats have resulted because of poor defensive
shows.
Coach Harbaugh said:
"It's been tough. It's been probably as many injuries as we've ever had on defense here during the last five years. We've got confidence in whoever we put out there. We are starting to get a little healthier, so it will be good to get some of those guys
back."
It is rather setback for the team, as traditionally they have been the strongest defensive side in the league. They have been through to playoffs and beyond phases mainly due to impressive showdown by their defence.
Veteran safety Ed Reed who is a key figure on the defensive line admits he has never been through a situation like this year and he is certainly concerned with the growing number of injuries.
Reed said:
"This is by far one of those years. I think when coach first got here, second year, we had a lot of injuries. But not like this."
LB Dannell Ellerbe adds:
"That's a terrible feeling, to see your guys out there fighting and trying to win the game and you can't help them."
Apparently, the team do not have an alternative but to extensively rely on the offensive department for their performance and wins, and they should be happy that the offence led by four-year veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is responding well to the team’s
need.
The offence has assumed so much importance that the team has lost two consecutive games because of the sluggish performance of the offensive line. This prompted them to sack offensive coordinator immediately after last game.
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