John Harbaugh discusses strategy to rotate offensive tackles in win over Rams

John Harbaugh discusses strategy to rotate offensive tackles in win over Rams

The Baltimore Ravens emerged victorious in a back-and-forth shootout with the Los Angeles Rams that came to an end with a punt return touchdown by Tylan Wallace in overtime.

The Ravens deployed an unusual strategy during the game, choosing to rotate between different players at both offensive tackle positions. Patrick Mekari filled in for starting left tackle Ronnie Stanley for 14 snaps in the game while Daniel Faalele did the same for right tackle Morgan Moses on eight snaps.

Head Coach John Harbaugh discussed the strategy during his Monday press conference.

“The idea was to split the workload up a little bit and also help Ronnie and Morgan be the strongest they could be in the fourth quarter,” Harbaugh said.

Both Stanley and Moses have dealt with nagging injuries throughout the season. The duo struggled against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 12, particularly Stanley, leading to speculation regarding whether or not the Ravens would bench the highly-paid left tackle in favor of Mekari at some point this season.

Following a bye week, both Stanley and Moses responded with their best performances of the season, each allowing just one pressure, according to PFF.

If Baltimore wants to make a serious run at bringing home their third Lombardi Trophy then they will need their experienced tackles to continue to play well.