Ravens report card versus the Patriots: The defense and special teams
The defense tried to keep the Baltimore Ravens in the game as long as they could. Like most of the time this season the defense played well but got worn out because of the lack of offense. For the report card on the offense go here.
Defensive line: The defensive line played good early in the game but again late in the game when they knew the Patriots were going to run the ball they could not stop them. The defensive line also needs to put more pressure on quarterbacks, Tom Brady had way too much time. Grade C
Linebackers: The Ravens really need to bring back Daryl Smith because once again he led the team in tackles with 11. Smith was even out with an injury for a short time. Jameel McClain also played well and Terrell Suggs had his first sack in six games. Elvis Dumervil was not very effective. Grade B
Secondary: Jimmy Smith and the Ravens secondary held Tom Brady to only 172 passing yards, on any day that is amazing. The secondary was not the problem. Grade A
Overall: The defense played great except for the final five minutes. The defense was simply on the field way too long and got worn out. Grade B
Special Teams: Justin Tucker missed a field goal for the first time in what seems like forever. Tucker’s field goal could have changed the game. Jacoby Jones was good on returns again. Grade C
Coaching Staff: The coaching staff did a bad job in this game. Joe Flacco was clearly hurt and probably should have been resting. Tyrod Taylor may have been bad in the little bit that he played but in a whole game running the wildcat it may have been what the Ravens needed to win this game. Some bad decisions on 4th down really hurt the Ravens as well. Grade F
