The Baltimore Ravens were able to extend their preseason winning streak to 18 games with a 17-14 win over the New Orleans Saints. Baltimore trailed for most of the game, but an overall strong fourth quarter propelled the Ravens to a win.
While picking up a victory is nice, in the preseason it doesn’t amount to much. It’s more about looking at how individual players performed. However, it’d be tough to not talk about the defense as a whole, as they forced six turnovers.
Quarterback Tyler Huntley separated himself for now in the battle for the backup QB spot, finishing 11-18 for 86 passing yards, as well as gaining 43 rushing yards on seven carries, also scoring on the ground. Trace McSorley flashed on a few occasions, but mostly struggled behind his offensive line.
Speaking of the offensive lineman, it was a mostly rough outing The team played without most of their projected starting group, but it was still a bit concerning to see the unit struggling so much early on. They improved as the game went on, but it hopefully they can turn in a better performance next week.
On the defensive side of the ball, those six turnovers were the difference in the game. Baltimore had three interceptions and three forced fumbles, all spanned out over the course of the game. Malik Harrison, Geno Stone, Justin Madubuike, Ar’Darius Washington and Shaun Wade forced the takeaways, with Stone coming up with two interceptions.
It’s expected that in the first week of the preseason, there will be some sloppiness. That showed with the offensive line, as well as a few blown coverages and big gains given up on defense. However, it was an overall encouraging performance.
The Ravens hope to build on their Week 1 performance when they take on the Carolina Panthers in Week 2 of the preseason, which will take place on Saturday, August 21st at 7pm EST.