After getting blown out in Week 1 to the Chargers, the Ravens have rebounded to win their last 2 games. Defense has been a big part of those wins as they have scored 3 TD's, including a pick 6 returned from the endzone by Daryl Smith against the Raiders. The defense has also combined for 8 INT's, 2 FF's, and 7 Sacks. Many did not think the Ravens Defense would be as good as it was last year shockingly having traded Terrell Suggs in the offseason, then Haloti Ngata in Week 2, and losing Defensive Rookie of the Year CJ Mosely to a torn bicep in Week 1 for half the season. However, they managed to beat the AFC Champion Raiders in Week 2, and were able to control Jamaal Charles in Week 3.
While the defense has been great, the offense has arguably been just as good. The tandem of Joe Flacco and Torrey Smith have been almost unbeatable this year hooking up 12 times for 538 yards and 6 TD's. As we've been learning Torrey Smith is not just a deep threat, but also a menace with the ball in space. Rookie wide receiver Lumar Hankerson is still learning the Raven playbook, but seems to be "catching on" pretty fast. Second year running back Lorenzo Taliaferro is making the most of his opportunities rushing for 212 yards on just 36 carries, clearly making a push for more carries with his 5.9 YPC.
All in all, the Ravens seemed poised to make the playoffs this year after losing out on the 4th tiebreaker for the final wild card spot last season.
