In a pivotal development for the Baltimore Ravens, rookie cornerback Nate Wiggins has been downgraded to out for Sunday’s clash with the Cleveland Browns. This news compounds the struggles of a Ravens pass defense that already ranks dead last in the NFL, allowing a staggering 287.1 yards per game through the air.
Ravens Secondary in Shambles
The loss of Wiggins, the 30th overall pick in this year’s draft, could not come at a worse time for Baltimore. Marlon Humphrey, the team’s interceptions leader, is also doubtful with a knee injury sustained in Monday night’s win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This leaves the Ravens perilously thin at cornerback as they prepare to face Browns quarterback Jameis Winston, who will be making his first start for Cleveland.
Untested Starters Thrust Into Action
With Humphrey and Wiggins likely sidelined, the Ravens are expected to start Jalyn Armour-Davis alongside two-year starter Brandon Stephens. Armour-Davis, who has just two career starts under his belt, is being activated off injured reserve after missing the past four games with a hamstring issue. The inexperienced cornerback pairing will be tested early and often by a Browns offense looking to capitalize on Baltimore’s vulnerabilities.
“It’s next man up,” said Ravens defensive coordinator Greg Mattison. “We have confidence in Jalyn and Brandon to step up and make plays. It won’t be easy, but that’s life in the NFL.”
– A source close to the Ravens coaching staff
Lamar Jackson Tasked With Outscoring Opponents
With the defense in disarray, the onus falls on quarterback Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ top-ranked offense to keep the team afloat. Jackson has been magnificent during Baltimore’s five-game winning streak, accounting for 15 total touchdowns and just two turnovers. The former MVP may need to elevate his game even further to compensate for a secondary that has been hemorrhaging yards and points.
- In their past five games, the Ravens have allowed three 300-yard passing performances
- Opposing quarterbacks have a passer rating of 105.1 against Baltimore this season
- The Ravens have surrendered 15 passing touchdowns while recording just six interceptions
Playoff Implications Loom Large
Sunday’s contest carries significant playoff ramifications in a hotly contested AFC North. The 5-2 Ravens currently hold a one-game lead over the 4-3 Browns, but a loss would drop them into a first-place tie with Cleveland owning the head-to-head tiebreaker. With the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers also in the mix, every divisional game takes on added importance.
As the Ravens navigate this cornerback crisis, they will lean heavily on their pass rush to alleviate pressure on the secondary. Veteran Calais Campbell and rising star Odafe Oweh must generate consistent pressure on Winston, forcing errant throws and ill-advised decisions. If the front seven can dominate the line of scrimmage, Baltimore may be able to mask its deficiencies on the back end.
The stage is set for a fascinating battle at FirstEnergy Stadium. Can the Ravens overcome their mounting injuries and defensive woes to secure a vital road victory? Or will the Browns expose Baltimore’s glaring weakness and seize control of the division? The answer could very well hinge on the performance of two untested cornerbacks thrust into the spotlight.
