News: Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs had surgery repair a torn Achilles tendon Tuesday and is expected to make a full recovery. The Ravens didn't indicate whether Suggs will be able to play this fall, or if it was a full tear or partial tear (Suggs indicated previously that it was a partial tear). The Ravens are expected to line up second-round pick Courtney Upshaw at Suggs' rush linebacker spot and have Paul Kruger take over at strongside linebacker, Jarret Johnson's former position. "Terrell had a successful surgical procedure done on his Achilles tendon this afternoon by Dr. Bob Anderson," general manager Ozzie Newsome said in a statement. "After some recovery time, Sizzle' will begin the process of rehabbing the area. We know he will work hard to get back on the field with his teammates as soon as the doctors and trainers allow. We're confident that he can make a full recovery."
Analysis: Suggs is a threat all over the field from his hybrid linebacker-end position and is considered the best defensive player on the Ravens. If he can play at any point this season it would help the Ravens immensely. With Suggs out the Ravens DST is more like a middle- to low-end No. 1 option in Fantasy. It would be a bonus if he could come back by November or December. This DST is worth a late-round pick.
News: After it was widely reported that Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs would miss the 2012 season with a torn Achilles' tendon, the linebacker told the Carroll County Times that he expects to play by November. Suggs says he suffered a partial tear while doing a conditioning drill. It was previously reported by ESPN that Suggs hurt himself playing basketball. "I went to stop and turn and I thought I sprained it," Suggs wrote. "Went to doc and said it's a partial tear." When asked if he would play this season, Suggs wrote "Absolutely. Middle to end of October. Definitely beginning of November."
Analysis: Suggs is a threat all over the field from his hybrid linebacker-end position and is considered the best defensive player on the Ravens. If he can play at any point this season it would help the Ravens immensely. Rookie Courtney Upshaw and veteran Paul Kruger will likely serve as the Ravens' outside linebackers until Suggs can return -- if he returns. With Suggs out the Ravens DST is more like a middle- to low-end No. 1 option in Fantasy. It would be a bonus if he could come back by November. This DST is worth a late-round pick.
News: Safety Ed Reed will return to the Ravens next season, according to general manager Ozzie Newsome. At the NFL Combine, Newsome told reporters that Reed told coach John Harbaugh he plans to "prepare to come back and play in 2012."
Analysis: Reed snapped a two-year skid of being hurt and played in 16 games in 2011, helping the Ravens DST finish as the second-best option in Fantasy play. His leadership there will go a long way but the keys to the defense remain staunchly in their pass rush. So long as that doesn't change, Fantasy owners should feel good about this DST as a No. 1 unit worth a late pick.
News: The Ravens will replace Chuck Pagano with Dean Pees as their defensive coordinator. Pagano left the Ravens to coach the Colts. Pees previously coached the Ravens linebackers and was last a defensive coordinator with the Patriots.
Analysis: Pees should be fine running a Ravens defense that's been consistently strong. They have a good pass rush in place along with a great run-stuffing unit. They could improve in some areas (while they limited running backs on the ground they still allowed a bunch of rushing touchdowns) but it's assumed that they'll be worth a late-round pick in drafts this summer as a No. 1 unit.
News: The Carroll County Times reports that Ravens DB Ed Reed should be fine for the AFC Championship Game at New England. In the final minutes of the divisional game against Houston on Sunday, Reed twisted his left ankle after a rough landing that followed his fourth pass deflection of the game. On Monday, the ankle wasn’t bothering Reed much and X-rays confirmed no major damage was done. “Ed looks like he’s all right with the ankle,” Baltimore coach John Harbaugh said. “Everything’s come up OK, as far as the X-rays.”
Analysis: The Ravens DST will need Reed to try and slow down Tom Brady and the Patriots offense. Keep an eye on Reed's status to make sure he is OK, but consider the Ravens DST a secondary option in playoff challenge formats based on the matchup with New England. Heading into 2012, the Ravens DST will again be a No. 1 Fantasy option in most leagues.
News: The Ravens DST came up big when it mattered most on Sunday in the regular-season finale Week 17 at Cincinnati. The Ravens DST stopped the Bengals late in their attempt to come back and win the game and gained a first-round bye as AFC North champs in the process. The Ravens DST limited Cincinnati to 336 total yards in the game and forced just one turnover. That said, the turnover was a Jermaine Gresham fumble that came at a very opportune time. The Ravens DST finished with one sack.
Analysis: The Ravens DST has been a No. 1 Fantasy unit just about all season as they have limited opponents to 10 or fewer points scored five times on the year. The unit has big-play ability and it also does the little things like getting to the quarterback. Heading into the playoffs, the Ravens DST will be a No. 1 Fantasy unit worth starting in each round. That said, the team has a first-round bye.
News: The Ravens DST really has been underwhelming over the last two weeks of the season. Entering Week the regular-season finale at Cincinnati, the Ravens DST has allowed 48 points and forced just two turnovers with two sacks in the unit's last two games against the Chargers and Browns combined. The Ravens DST only managed 10 Fantasy points against Cleveland last week.
Analysis: There definitely are reasons why the Ravens DST might not be a great option for the regular-season finale. The Ravens DST allowed 483 yards and 24 points to the Bengals back in Week 11, and had a limited Fantasy day. Of course, when it comes down to it, there have been few better DSTs this season than the Ravens. Fantasy owners have been rolling with the Ravens DST all season and certainly shouldn't stop now in the season's final week. Consider the Ravens DST a No. 1 Fantasy unit for Week 17.
News: The Ravens defense held Cleveland to one offensive touchdown during a 20-14 win Week 16. Cleveland got its other touchdown on an 84-yard punt return from Josh Cribbs. Cleveland managed just 256 yards, including 117 on the ground. Baltimore sacked QB Seneca Wallace twice and forced one turnover.
Analysis: The Ravens defense was spectacular as usual against a weak Browns team. On the docket Week 17 is a matchup with the Bengals, who are still vying for a playoff berth. It's not a layup matchup for Baltimore, but the Ravens DST is still a recommended Fantasy start.
News: The Ravens and Browns will meet for the second time this season in Week 16. The Ravens had the better game Week 14, beating the Browns 24-10. The Ravens defense held Cleveland to 233 yards (59 rushing) and only one offensive touchdown. Baltimore came away with three sacks and one interception.
Analysis: The Ravens were able to harass QB Colt McCoy all game Week 13, but this time around they will have to face Seneca Wallace with McCoy expected to be sidelined with a concussion. Wallace isn't that much better than McCoy, so this is another favorable matchup for Baltimore. Start the Ravens DST in Week 16.
News: After limiting opponents to fewer than 11 points in each of their last three games, the Ravens had a hard time slowing down the Chargers in Week 15. Baltimore gave up 415 yards of total offense, including 145 on the ground, in the 34-14 loss. Along with giving up three rushing touchdowns, they allowed two passing scores to QB Philip Rivers and were unable to sack him at all. The Ravens entered Sunday night with an NFL-best 45 sacks on the year.
Analysis: Even though the Ravens welcomed back All-Pro LB Ray Lewis on Sunday, the Chargers exploited their run defense and were able to make some big plays through the air. Baltimore hadn't given up 30 points all season long so hopefully they will be able to get back on track quickly. That will likely take place when they take on the lowly Browns in Week 16 so continue to roll with the Ravens DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The Ravens have been solid on defense over the last three games and could be even better in Week 15 against the Chargers with a key piece coming back from injury. After missing the previous four games due to a foot injury, All-Pro LB Ray Lewis is expected back on Sunday night. San Diego ranks seventh in the league in passing and 16th in rushing while Baltimore ranks second and fifth against the run and pass, respectively. The Ravens have recorded an NFL-best 45 sacks thus far with 14 interceptions and five DST scores.
Analysis: The Ravens have been the best option in Fantasy so far this season as their fierce pass rush and ball-hawking secondary has wreaked havoc on opposing offenses. They were getting along just fine without Lewis but the leader of their defense will definitely have the group ready to take on the Chargers, who have come alive on offense of late. Fantasy owners have ridden them this far so continue to view Baltimore's DST as a No. 1 option for Week 15.
News: The Ravens defense harassed Colts QB Dan Orlovsky all game and turned in another impressive performance during a 24-10 win against Indianapolis in Week 14. The Colts didn't score an offensive touchdown until the last play of the game, when Orlovsky hit Jacob Tamme for a 13-yard score. Indianapolis finished with just 167 yards, including 50 on the ground. The Ravens totaled four sacks and one interception.
Analysis: The Ravens DST was started in 98 percent of Fantasy leagues Week 14, so Fantasy owners definitely anticipated a standout performance and they got one. Baltimore even did it without LB Ray Lewis, who missed another game due to injury. The Ravens will get a tougher challenge in Week 15 against the Chargers, but the Ravens DST is still a recommended Fantasy option.
News: Ravens defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano is preparing for the Colts in Week 14 well aware he will not have to worry about QB Peyton Manning, who is still out following neck surgery. "You're talking about a Hall of Famer, one of the best if not the best, to ever play the game," Pagano said. "At the end of the day, we try to worry about us and not who we're playing." CB Lardarius Webb declined to talk specifics about what he saw in the Colts' fourth quarter explosion against New England last Sunday. But he said Colts QB Dan Orlovsky is someone to be concerned with. "He's no slouch," Webb said. "We just have to keep pressure on him."
Analysis: Fantasy owners have to love this matchup. In past years with Manning at the helm, the Ravens DST might be an option to sit. But not this year against the winless Colts. Orlovsky did pass for 240 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter against New England, but that was when the Patriots played a soft defense after going up big. The Ravens will likely keep the pressure on Orlovsky all game. If you own the Ravens DST, then start them in Fantasy Week 14.
News: The Ravens held the Browns to 233 yards of total offense and 10 points in their 24-10 victory in Week 13. Ladarius Webb added a 68-yard fourth quarter punt return touchdown to close the game out. They got to Colt McCoy three times, and forced many more hurries that affected his accuracy. They had many more opportunities for turnovers that they couldn’t convert, as they got their hands on nine separate McCoy passes, but couldn’t bring them in. If they had brought in a couple, it could have been an even better game, but it was still a top-notch performance.
Analysis: It was a typically dominant performance from one of the best DST units in the league. Besides the special teams score, it was about what you’d expect from a typical Ravens game. Of course, a typical performance from the Ravens DST unit is better than almost every other team out there. They are a must-start Fantasy unit every week, but Week 14 might be their best matchup of the season, as they face the hapless Colts at home. The Colts allow opposing DSTs to score the second most points in the league against them, and have mostly been a disaster offensively. Look for the Ravens to have one of their best games of the year in Week 14.
News: The Ravens travel to Cleveland to take on the Browns in Week 13, and Baltimore should be a in a good position to continue their run as one of the top defensive units in football. Cleveland has been an easy matchup for most defenses this year, as they don't do anything particularly well on offense. They average just 15 points per game and less than 300 yards of total offense per game, though they have done a decent job of taking care of the ball, ranking in the bottom half of the league in interceptions and fumbles lost.
Analysis: If the Browns do anything well, it's run the ball when their running backs are healthy. Peyton Hillis, their No. 1 running back, is playing for them this week, however the Ravens have been incredibly strong against the run, allowing just 3.4 yards per carry. If the Ravens can shut down the running game, their pass rushers can tee off on Colt McCoy, who doesn't have a strong receiving corps and could be in for a really long day. It's the kind of matchup that turns a strong DST unit into maybe the top unit for a week. Consider Baltimore's DST a must-start for Week 13.
News: Baltimore utilized a swarming and aggressive defense to generate nine sacks en route to a 16-6 victory over San Francisco in Week 12 on Thursday night. The Ravens effectively pressured 49ers QB Alex Smith throughout the game and sacked him four times in the first half alone as they matched a franchise record for sacks. Baltimore has topped at least four sacks in six separate games and now has 30 total sacks in 11 games this year.
Analysis: Even without LB Ray Lewis (foot) active, the Ravens constantly bullied the over-matched San Francisco offensive line and were in the backfield throughout Thursday’s game. The 49ers managed only 170 total yards as Baltimore held an opponent to less than 300 yards for the first time since Week 8. The Ravens haven't recorded many sacks recently, but their defense Thursday was reminiscent of its successful unit from earlier in the year. Fantasy owners should consider Baltimore a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 13 at Cleveland.
News: With Baltimore LB Ray Lewis sidelined with a foot injury, the Ravens defense permitted a season-high 483 yards and 24 points during a victory over Cincinnati in Week 11. The 24 points marked the third highest total Baltimore has allowed to an opponent this season. The Ravens will look to rebound against San Francisco in Week 12 on Thursday night. The 49ers are averaging 25.6 points per game this year -- seventh most in the NFL.
Analysis: Lewis, who has a team-high 68 tackles this year, said he is hoping to return for Thursday's outing after missing his first game since 2007. Baltimore would certainly welcome his return after the Bengals shredded the reliable defense last week. The Ravens still managed three turnovers -- all on interceptions -- and two sacks against Cincinnati. Consider Baltimore a No. 1 Fantasy DST for the Week 12 matchup.
News: The Ravens DST came up big at the end of the Week 11 win over the Bengals from Baltimore. With Cincinnati frantically trying to pass their way back into the game, the Ravens DST picked up a big sack of QB Andy Dalton to end it, 31-24. The Ravens DST gave up 483 total yards of offense in the win, but forced three Dalton interceptions. With two sacks in the game, the Ravens DST had another solid performance.
Analysis: The Ravens DST bounced back big time after scoring just 12 total Fantasy points the previous two games against the Steelers and Seahawks on the road. The Ravens DST has been much better at home this season, where they play Week 12 against San Francisco. Continue to start the Ravens DST in most Fantasy formats.
News: The Ravens DST has been underwhelming the last two road games at Pittsburgh and Seattle. They enter Week 11 back home against the Bengals and should be in for a better effort. The Ravens DST forced just two turnovers the last two games with just two total sacks and over 700 yards of offense and 42 points allowed.
Analysis: The Ravens DST definitely struggled in the last two games on the road. That said, the unit has been one of the best this season and should bounce back in Week 11 against Cincinnati. That said, the Steelers DST was limited against the Bengals last week as Cincinnati has been tough on opposing DST units. Don't lose faith in the Ravens DST just yet. Continue to start them in most Fantasy formats for Week 11.
News: Baltimore lost to Seattle, 22-17, in Week 10 as the Ravens defense struggled to stop Marshawn Lynch. He ran for 109 yards and also led his team with 58 receiving yards. Baltimore did not force a turnover in the game and couldn't come up with a stop when they needed one late in the game. The Ravens managed just one sack on Tarvaris Jackson, despite putting plenty of pressure on him all day.
Analysis: The Ravens DST is normally one of the best in the business, but they did not look like one on Sunday. The chances of them struggling again next week is slim as the leaders on defense will try to get the team focused heading into Week 11 against the Bengals. Fantasy owners should stick with Baltimore as they are a No. 1 DST unit.
News: Baltimore travels to Seattle in Week 10, a team that hasn't been too explosive offensively. The Ravens will have to contain RB Marshawn Lynch, who is is coming off his first regular-season 100-yard game as a member of the Seahawks. Baltimore held Pittsburgh's Rashard Mendenhall to just 52 yards on the ground last weekend. Opposing team's DSTs are averaging 16.62 Fantasy points against Seattle this season.
Analysis: Before last weekend the Ravens had held four straight opponents to under 300 total yards of offense. The Seahawks are averaging just 296 yards of total offense per outing this season, so the Ravens have a favorable matchup. Fantasy owners should consider Baltimore's DST a No. 1 option for Week 10.
News: Baltimore failed to record a sack in Week 9 in Pittsburgh, but did enough to disrupt some of Ben Roethlisberger's passes. He did throw for 365 yards, but the Ravens were able to pick him off once. Baltimore also held Rashard Mendenhall to just 52 yards on the ground. The Ravens defense didn't break on Sunday, but the offense bailed them out late in the game. Baltimore would rally to win the game, 23-20, over Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Baltimore had held four straight opponents to under 300 yards of total offense entering Week 9. Pittsburgh ended that streak, but the Ravens could get it going again in Week 10 against the Seahawks. Marshawn Lynch is coming off a 100-yard performance, but Baltimore will focus on shutting him down as the Seahawks passing game isn't too good. Fantasy owners should continue to view the Ravens DST as a No. 1 option.
News: Baltimore travels to Pittsburgh in Week 9, a team that is clicking on all cylinders offensively. The Steelers are averaging 388.8 total yards of offense per contest and 22 points per game. The Ravens are coming off a game where they recorded a season-high six sacks. The Steelers have allowed 25 sacks so far this season, which comes out to three per game. Opposing team's DSTs are scoring an average of 9.12 Fantasy points per contest against Pittsburgh this season.
Analysis: The Ravens are very familiar with the Steelers, but they will have their work cut out in Week 9. Baltimore has held four straight opponents to under 300 total yards of offense. Fantasy owners should view the Ravens DST as a low-end No. 1 option for this Sunday.
News: Entering its Week 8 outing against Arizona, the Baltimore defense was eager for its meeting with error-prone QB Kevin Kolb. The swarming Ravens defense certainly enjoyed the matchup and recorded a season-high six sacks on Kolb en route to a 30-27 victory on Sunday. Baltimore took down Kolb twice in the Cardinals' opening drive and also forced him into throwing an interception for the sixth consecutive game.
Analysis: The Ravens held Arizona to only 207 total yards, the fourth consecutive opponent it has limited under 300 yards. Baltimore, which entered Sunday's game ranked in the top five in the NFL in pass and rush defense, permitted its highest scoring total of the season but held the Cardinals to just three points after halftime in its comeback victory. Continue to consider the Ravens as a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 9 at Pittsburgh.
News: The Baltimore defense encountered mixed results during their Week 7 outing against Jacksonville on Monday night. They held the Jaguars out of the end zone, however the Ravens could not overcome four field goals in a 12-7 loss. Baltimore is hoping for a quick rebound in Week 8 when it welcomes lowly Arizona, which has lost five straight games. The Ravens rank among the NFL's top five in pass (fourth) and rush (third) defense, and have not allowed an opponent to reach 300 total yards in a game since Week 2 at Tennessee.
Analysis: Baltimore has regained its standing arguably the toughest defense in the NFL and paces the league in points allowed per game (13.8) and yards per game (272.7) this season. The Ravens have reached opposing quarterbacks often and have four outings with at least four sacks this season, including in each of their past two games. Baltimore also leads the NFL with nine fumble recoveries this year. Fantasy owners should consider the Ravens DST a must-start in Week 8 against a Cardinals team that has had trouble reaching the end zone.
News: The Ravens gave up their first 100-yard rusher of the season in Week 7 against the Jaguars. Baltimore entered Monday night ranked third in the league against the run, but gave up 105 yards to Maurice Jones-Drew and another 28 yards to Deji Karim in the 12-7 loss. The Ravens were able to limit QB Blaine Gabbert to just 93 yards passing, however, and sacked him four times. Jacksonville finished with 205 total yards.
Analysis: The Ravens were able to get after the quarterback in Week 7 but caused just one turnover and got gashed on the ground. Their defense is one of the best in the league but when their offense cannot hold onto the ball, it doesn't give them much of a chance. Baltimore should be in for a better outing next week against the Cardinals so continue to view the Ravens DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Despite boasting the NFL's best scoring defense (14.2 points per game) and the third-best total defense (286.2 yards per game), Baltimore DB Ed Reed is keeping his team grounded entering its Week 7 matchup at Jacksonville on Monday night. "Nothing's special about this defense," Reed said. "We're in the middle of the season. We haven't accomplished anything." The Ravens plan to heavily pressure Jaguars rookie QB Blaine Gabbert in the hopes of adding to their total of 15 sacks this season, which is tied for 10th most in the league.
Analysis: With Gabbert struggling in his first NFL season, Jacksonville has relied heavily on RB Maurice Jones-Drew. Baltimore DL Terrence Cody said he is the defense has an opportunity to "dominate" if it limits the NFL's third-leading rusher (572 yards). "We feel like we have a good chance against those guys and feel like we can stop the run if we keep playing like we've been playing," Cody said. The Ravens have not permitted more than 17 points in any outing during its current three-game winning streak, and should be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 7.
News: The Ravens did a solid job of limiting the Texans in Week 6. Despite giving up nearly 300 yards of total offense, including 200 through the air, they only allowed two scores in the 29-14 win. Baltimore also sacked QB Matt Schaub four times while holding RB Arian Foster to 49 yards on 15 carries.
Analysis: The Ravens put a ton of pressure on Schaub Sunday and were able to keep the Texans out of the end zone more often than not. Baltimore now has 15 sacks on the year. They have a favorable matchup in Week 7 against the Jaguars so continue to view the Ravens DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The Ravens will be facing a Texans offense in Week 6 that they matchup very well against. Houston ranks fifth in the league in rushing and 11th in passing, while Baltimore ranks second and ninth against the run and pass, respectively. The Ravens have recorded 11 sacks so far this season with six interceptions and four defensive touchdowns.
Analysis: The Ravens scored three defensive touchdowns in their last game and used the bye week to help get their aging defense healthy. While the Texans have shown the ability to light up the scoreboard, they might not have WR Andre Johnson at their disposal, which would leave them at a bit of a disadvantage. Either way, Baltimore has been one of the better options in Fantasy thus far and should continue to be viewed as a No. 1 DST for Week 6.
News: The Ravens defense did not give up much to the Jets in Week 4. Baltimore held New York to just 150 yards of total offense and added three touchdowns on the defensive side of the ball. LB Jameel McClain got things started when he returned a fumble 6 yards for a score in the first quarter before LB Jarret Johnson did the same, this time from 26 yards out, in the second. CB Lardarius Webb added a 73-yard pick-six in the third quarter. The Ravens also had two sacks in the 34-17 win. "The best defensive effort I thought I had ever seen or the most amazing defensive performance I thought I'd ever seen was the Pittsburgh game with seven turnovers," coach John Harbaugh said, referring to Baltimore's season-opening 35-7 rout. "But this topped it. That's pretty impressive, to say the least."
Analysis: The Ravens allowed just a field goal to the Jets' offense on Sunday as they won in dominant fashion. They now have four scores on defense this season, along with 11 sacks and six interceptions. Baltimore is shaping up to be a solid Fantasy option again so keep their DST reserved for their Week 5 bye before getting them active again for Week 6 against the Texans.
News: The Ravens defense has a solid matchup in Week 4 against the Jets. Baltimore ranks sixth in the league against the run, giving up just 84 yards per game, and are 17th in passing. New York enters Sunday ranked 10th and 25th in passing and rushing, respectively. The Ravens have the second-best DST having collected nine sacks, five interceptions and a defensive touchdown.
Analysis: The Ravens held the Rams to just 244 yards of total offense a week ago after getting gashed by the Titans the week before. They should be able to keep things going in Week 4 as the Jets do not have the most potent offense in the league. When these two teams met a year ago, Baltimore held New York to just nine points and 176 yards of total offense. The Jets could be in for more of the same on Sunday so consider the Ravens as a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 4.
News: The Ravens DST was able to bounce-back in a big way during Week 3 against the Rams. The unit was once again able to find the end zone in the 37-7, on a Haloti Ngata 28-yard fumble return in the fourth quarter. Baltimore actually forced a pair of turnovers in the contest, the other being an interception, which led to a Ravens' field goal. The unit actually held the Rams to just seven points on 244 total yards of offense and sacked Sam Bradford five times.
Analysis: The Ravens defense didn't play very well last Sunday against the Titans and apparently decided to take out their frustration on St. Louis. The unit continues to be one of the best in all of Fantasy and will now face their old defensive coordinator Rex Ryan next week when the Jets come to town. New York's offense has looked a bit out sync at times as well, which bodes well for owners. Consider the Ravens a No. 1 DST heading into Week 4.
News: The Ravens DST will be looking to bounce back in a big way in Week 3 against the Rams. The unit allowed 23 points on 432 yards of total offense last Sunday to the Titans and looked especially vulnerable in the passing game. The Rams enter Sunday's matchup ranked 18th in total offense. St. Louis is averaging 351 yards a game, but only 14.5 points, and have allowed an average of 16.5 Fantasy points to opposing DSTs thus far, which ranks 29th overall. The Ravens DST is ranked fifth overall and has racked up four sacks and forced eight turnovers on the season.
Analysis: The Ravens decided to try and key in on Chris Johnson last week, but the plan backfired as Hasselbeck was able to take advantage of the single coverage. The unit seems to have a chip on their shoulder heading into this week and will be facing a Rams team that could still be missing a few key weapons on offense. Steven Jackson continues to nurse his quadriceps injury and Danny Amedola's status is still up in the air. This looks like a very favorable matchup for Baltimore's defense this week, so Fantasy owners should consider the Ravens a No. 1 Fantasy DST heading into Week 3.
News: Titans QB Matt Hasselbeck threw for 358 yards and a touchdown, and the Titans gave new coach Mike Munchak a big win in their home opener by beating the Ravens 26-13 in Week 2. With the Ravens focused on stopping Chris Johnson, Hasselbeck attacked through the air, as Tennessee (1-1) held the ball for more than 35 minutes and outgained Baltimore 432-229 in total offense. Johnson had 24 carries for 53 yards, and he couldn't be happier at how well his teammates performed. Baltimore coach John Harbaugh said the Ravens did put eight near the line of scrimmage at times to try to stop Johnson. "Hasselbeck did a nice job of controlling the game as far as recognizing what we were in and getting them in the right play," he said. "To me, that's what a veteran quarterback does. He gets the ball out and he's got some big targets. The credit goes to him. I think he was the guy that was the difference in the game."
Analysis: The Ravens only forced one turnover in Week 2 and the most surprising issue was they couldn't pressure Hasselbeck, who wasn't sacked all game. That is not Ravens football, especially after they forced seven turnovers in Week 1 against the Steelers. Don't get down on the Ravens DST after one bad game. They are still a recommended Fantasy option heading into Week 3 against the Rams.
News: The last time the Ravens faced Titans QB Matt Hasselbeck, who will led Tennessee against Baltimore in Week 2, was in 2007, when he led Seattle to a 27-6 victory over Baltimore. “Matt’s a heady guy,” defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano said. “If you get him in the right place he’s going to manage the game.” However, the first aspect of defending the Titans is keeping RB Chris Johnson from getting outside. “You have to have an edge,” Pagano said. “We always say on defense no edge, no chance. The longest plays in football happen on the sideline."
Analysis: The Ravens defense had a field day in Week 1 against the Steelers, forcing seven turnovers in a 35-7 win. Pittsburgh is an AFC contender. Can you imagine what the Ravens have in store for Tennessee? Don't expect the Ravens to force seven turnovers again, but they should do well against the Titans. Consider the Ravens DST a viable Fantasy option for Week 2.
News: The Ravens DST set a new franchise record by forcing seven turnovers against Pittsburgh in the Week 1 35-7 victory. The DST was phenomenal in limiting Pittsburgh's offense to just 312 total yards as Ben Roethlisberger couldn't get anything going offensively and finished with three interceptions and two fumbles lost. Baltimore LB Terrell Suggs picked up three sacks on Sunday and that gives him the franchise record with 70.5 career sacks. Suggs passed former Ravens LB Peter Boulware, who had 70 career sacks. The Ravens DST finished with four sacks, four recovered fumbles and three interceptions.
Analysis: Fantasy owners knew the Ravens DST would be a solid unit once again this season. They could not have expected this monster of a Week 1 performance, however. Oh well, here is to being pleasantly surprised. Playing at Tennessee in Week 2, things should only get easier for the Ravens DST. Consider the unit a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 2.
News: The Ravens DST enters Week 1 at home against Pittsburgh healthy and ready for an improvement on a season ago. Baltimore, which allowed 318.9 yards of offense per game last year, still has veterans Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Terrell Suggs at its disposal and the unit should be primed for a solid Week 1 against the Steelers.
Analysis: Fantasy owners know year in and year out that the Ravens DST is going to be a successful unit. This season the team hopes to get off to a fast start against Pittsburgh and this game should be a defensive battle in Week 1. That is why Fantasy owners should do fine with the Ravens DST in most formats. Consider them a No. 1 unit for the first week of the season.
News: The Ravens spent a first-round pick on Colorado CB Jimmy Smith and later used a pair of fifth-round picks on Texas CB Chykie Brown and Mississippi State DE Pernell McPhee. At 6 feet 2, 211 pounds, Smith has the potential to be one of the better corners in the league so long as off-field problems that plagued him in college and through the draft process don't follow him to Charm City. He finished his college career with 183 career tackles and 16 pass deflections. Brown, who missed four games in the 2010 season with a broken forearm, had two career interceptions with the Longhorns. The 6-foot-3, 280-pound McPhee started in all 25 games at MSU. He had seven sacks, caused two fumbles and deflected four passes.
Analysis: The Ravens needed help in the secondary and got a big boost with the addition of Smith. He should keep his head on straight thanks to the leadership available to him in the Ravens' locker room. Anything the Ravens can do to help their pass defense will go a long way in improving their DST. We still consider this DST draftable somewhere in the late rounds.
News: The Ravens have promoted secondary coach Chuck Pagano to defensive coordinator, replacing Greg Mattison after he left to take the same job at Michigan. CB Fabian Washington says the move was "way past overdue" and that Pagano -- who has a reputation as an aggressive coach -- should have long been an NFL defensive coordinator. CB Josh Wilson says that the Ravens know Pagano can handle the job. He says it's "going to be like nothing ever changed." Baltimore finished the season as the 10th ranked defense, allowing an average of 318.9 yards per game.
Analysis: Pagano was a defensive coordinator in 2007 at the University of North Carolina. He has previous NFL stints as a secondary coach with the Oakland Raiders and the Cleveland Browns. The Ravens have a solid 3-4 scheme in place, as they have for the last decade. Several coordinators have left for head coaching jobs, including Marvin Lewis (Bengals) and Rex Ryan (Jets). Even with the early exit from the postseason after Saturday's loss to the Steelers, the Ravens DST remains a top-notch unit in the NFL heading into 2011. They should be selected among the first handfull of DSTs on Draft Day.
News: Despite creating two turnovers and managing six sacks on QB Ben Roethlisberger, the Ravens could not hold off the Steelers in Saturday's Divisional Playoff matchup. They held Pittsburgh to just 263 total yards and RB Rashard Mendenhall managed just 59 total yards, and fumbled. Still, it was Roethlisberger on another game-winning drive. This one came on an 11-play, 65 yard effort, highlighted by a 58-yard bomb to WR Antonio Brown. Mendenhall would punch it in from 1-yard out to put Pittsburgh ahead for good. The Ravens played well for most of the afternoon, led by Terrell Suggs, who was responsible for three sacks and a forced fumble. The fumble would be returned by the only aware player on the field -- DL Cory Redding -- who picked the ball up among relaxed players throughout the field and gave Baltimore the early lead.
Analysis: Baltimore seems to be the little brother of the Steelers, even when they outplay them for most of a game. They jumped out to a 21-7 lead with the game here's to lose, and that's exactly what happened. The long pass to Brown was a microcosm of the loss. DB Lardarius Webb gave Brown a 15-yard cushion because it was 3rd and 19, but the WR still got behind him to set up the game-winner. Even with the early exit from the postseason, the Ravens DST remains a top-notch unit in the NFL heading into 2011. They should be selected among the first handfull of DSTs on Draft Day.
News: Ravens S Ed Reed returned to Baltimore and participated in practice Tuesday after spending Monday with his family in Louisiana, coach John Harbaugh said. His younger brother, Brian, is missing after jumping into the Mississippi River Friday allegedly to evade police who were pursuing him. Harbaugh said Reed was in good spirits upon his return.
Analysis: Reed played with a heavy heart in last week's Wild Card win over the Chiefs, and the team dedicated the win to him. Reed made four tackles on the afternoon, including a momentum-changing big-hit on WR/RB Dexter McCluster. The defense has a more familiar task in the Divisional round, taking on rival Pittsburgh. Reed's family tragedy only proved to make the top-notch safety play harder last week, so the Ravens DST remains a solid option in Fantasy Playoff Challenges.
News: The Ravens allowed 395 yards of offense in Week 17 against Cincinnati, but they held the Bengals to just seven points in a 13-7 win. Ed Reed notched two more interceptions and the Ravens recovered three fumbles to total five turnovers in the game. They failed to record a sack in the game, however.
Analysis: The Ravens defense did what they normally do, which is stifle opposing offenses. They held Cedric Benson to just 53 rushing yards on 21 carries and Baltimore remained one of the stronger defenses in the league on the ground all year. With defensive playmakers like Reed, Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs, the Ravens can create a lot of pressure and mistakes by opponents. That makes them a top-flight defensive unit in Fantasy and should once again be the case next fall.
News: The Ravens DST allowed the Browns to rack up 280 yards of offense in the Week 16 game. That said, Baltimore still pulled the 20-10 victory and was able to pick off quarterback Colt McCoy three times in the game. Veteran Ed Reed had two of those interceptions and Lardarius Webb had the other. The Ravens forced four turnovers in total in the game, though they did not manage even a single sack of McCoy in the game.
Analysis: The Ravens DST will have some poor weeks but Fantasy owners should be trusting the teams that got them this far heading into Week 17. With one game left in the regular season in Week 17 against the Bengals, owners should continue to rely on the Ravens DST in all Fantasy formats. They've been a No. 1 Fantasy unit all year and there is no good reason not to keep going with them.
News: The Ravens DST played well given their opponent in Week 15 against New Orleans. The Ravens had three sacks, one interception and one fumble recovery in the 30-24 victory. On special teams, Lardarius Webb had two punt returns for 35 yards, Jalen Parmele had three kickoff returns for 79 yards and David Reed had one kickoff return for 18 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens DST remains a No. 1 Fantasy option in the majority of leagues, and they should play well in Week 16 at Cleveland. The Ravens held the Browns to 17 points in a Week 3 victory. Plan on starting them in most formats in Week 16.
News: After a slow start, the New Orleans Saints are putting up offensive numbers like last season en route to winning their first Super Bowl. The Baltimore Ravens, meanwhile, can make a big statement by tightening up their defense. The Saints look for their seventh straight win in Week 15 when they visit the Ravens for the first time since 2002. The defending Super Bowl champions' surge has come about with an impressive turnaround on offense. New Orleans is scoring 30.5 points and averaging 402.5 yards during its winning streak, up from 21.0 points and 371.9 yards while getting off to a 4-3 start. The Saints have scored at least 30 points in their last five games, tying the longest streak in franchise history originally set in 2002. The Ravens rank 10th in the NFL in overall yards allowed with 319.8 and eighth against the run, yielding 98.8 yards per game.
Analysis: Baltimore is coming off one of its worst defensive performances of the year Monday night in a 34-28 overtime win at Houston. The Ravens hadn't given up more than 13 points in their previous three games, but blew a 28-7 third-quarter lead before cornerback Josh Wilson returned an interception 12 yards for a touchdown in overtime for the win. The 489 yards of offense allowed were the second-most any opponent has totaled against Baltimore this season. Matt Schaub passed for 393 yards, which could be a good sign for QB Drew Brees, who needs just 145 yards for a fifth consecutive 4,000-yard passing season. Although, Brees has thrown at least one interception in nine straight games, so we expect the Ravens to get at least one turnover. Consider the Ravens DST at best a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 15.
News: The Ravens defense and special teams had a dominant performance in Week 14 against the Texans. Despite allowing 28 points and 489 yards of total offense, Baltimore was able to do some scoring of their own. WR/KR David Reed returned the opening kickoff of the second half 103 yards for the score, which was the longest in team history. Then after Houston tied the game up to send it to overtime, DB Josh Wilson picked off QB Matt Schaub and scored the game-winning touchdown from 12 yards out. The Ravens picked off Schaub twice in the 34-28 win and sacked him two times.
Analysis: The Ravens DST put on a show on Monday night but still allowed way too many yards for Fantasy owner's likings. It was the most points they had allowed since Week 7 when they allowed Buffalo -- of all teams -- to put up 34. The two scores saved the day but Baltimore will have to buckle down next week against the Saints or they could be in store for another shootout. New Orleans is averaging over 25 points per game this season and have the third-best passing attack in the league. While the Ravens have been susceptible to the pass this year, continue to view their DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 15.
News: The Ravens defense has held opponents to 13 or fewer points in each of their last three games and will face off against the Texans in Week 14. Houston has scored 20-plus points in each of their last five contests and enter Sunday ranked 10th and seventh in the league in passing and rushing, respectively. Baltimore ranks 11th in the NFL against the pass but sport the sixth-best rush defense.
Analysis: The Ravens have been dominant on defense in recent weeks and will face a tough task in Week 14 as the Texans have both a solid passing and running game. RB Arian Foster leads the league in rushing yards and touchdowns while WR Andre Johnson's resume speaks for itself. But Baltimore has slowed down better offenses this season and should be able to hold their own against Houston. Consider the Ravens DST a No. 1 Fantasy option for Monday night's matchup.
News: After holding the Steelers to just six points through 57 minutes of action in the Week 13 game, the Ravens defense gave up a game-winning 9-yard touchdown pass from QB Ben Roethlisberger to RB Isaac Redman. The Ravens were blitzing and Redman was the hot-read; DB Dawan Landry had him wrapped-up around the 5 yard-line, but failed to bring him down before he crossed the goal-line. “I thought I was going to be in there for protection in case of a blitz, but the ball came my way and I was wasn't going to be denied," Redman said. "I'm happy we could get this done.” Baltimore allowed 13 points and 288 total yards to Pittsburgh. They sacked the ailing Roethlisberger three times -- 1 1/2 by Terrell Suggs -- and CB Josh Wilson intercepted him in the second quarter.
Analysis: The Ravens defense played extremely well with the exception of the game-winning score. They pressured Roethlisberger throughout the night and limited RB Rashard Mendenhall to just 45 yards rushing -- he scored two TDs and racked up 79 yards against the Ravens in Week 4. Still, the big play was made by the Steelers when it counted the most. In Week 14, the Ravens will try to rebound against the explosive Texans' offense, who have not put up less than 20 points in their last five games. Continue to view the Ravens DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into the Monday night matchup.
News: The Ravens defense has been able to stymie opposing QBs at home. In Week 13, the Steelers and QB Ben Roethlisberger -- who is questionable with a foot issue -- come to town. Visiting quarterbacks have posted a 60.2 passer rating at M&T Bank Stadium since 2008, the lowest in any stadium. Roethlisberger’s passer rating is 99.1. The Ravens also have allowed a league-low 12.5 points per home game since 2008. Baltimore ranks seventh in the NFL against the pass. Against the run, the Ravens actually sit outside of the top-10. That should shift the defense's priority to containing RB Rashard Mendenhall, who was able to rack up 79 yards and found the end zone twice against the Ravens in Week 4.
Analysis: The passing game was not a factor when the two teams met in Week 4, but Charlie Batch was under center for the Steelers. Roethlisberger presents an entirely different situation, finding the end zone 16 times in 10 career games against the Ravens, against 10 interceptions. When these teams meet up, it's a defensive show, and we expect Sunday night to be more of the same. Consider the Ravens DST to be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option only because of the solid run defense that usually ranks at the top of the NFL, but ranks just 11th this year.
News: The Ravens DST held the Buccaneers to just 10 points and 263 yards in a Week 12 win, but failed to record a single turnover or sack.
Analysis: In leagues that reward yardage and point totals, the Ravens DST did well on Sunday, but it was only good enough for eight points in standard scoring leagues. That's not a great total, and this unit remains only a No. 2 option in 2010, although because of their name recognition, the Ravens DST is still starting in more than 80 percent of leagues. In Week 13, Baltimore will host Pittsburgh, which isn't the best of matchups. The Ravens will likely continue to be used in most Fantasy formats for a while, simply because of guys like Ed Reed and Ray Lewis.
News: The Ravens DST will have their hands fairly full with the Buccaneers offense in Week 12. Tampa Bay has found weapons in rookies LeGarrette Blount and Mike Williams this season, and quarterback Josh Freeman has stepped up his game in his second season. The Bucs have averaged 27.8 points over their last four games and Williams specifically has crushed defenses on the road by averaging 19.9 yards per catch and scoring in each game.
Analysis: The Ravens DST has been a disappointment for much of the season -- in standard-scoring leagues they're ranked in the bottom half and behind DSTs like the Raiders, Chargers, Lions and even the Buccaneers. They're actually lucky to be ranked where they are -- it's thanks to two strong efforts in their last three games including a two-touchdown performance against the lowly Panthers last week. With the Bucs' offense playing well and the Ravens' secondary and pass rush not matching expectations for much of the season, don't consider them a must-start. Consider other options before finalizing your Week 12 lineup.
News: The Ravens' defense capitalized on the inexperience of Panthers QB Brian St. Pierre, picking him off twice within a 19-second span and scoring touchdowns on both picks in a 37-13 win in Week 11. DB Ed Reed picked off St. Pierre with just over five minutes left in the game, and then he lateraled the ball to DB Dawan Landry, who took it in for a score. On the first play of Carolina's next possession, LB Ray Lewis made his own pick-six. The Ravens limited the Panthers to 270 yards of offense, and they also sacked St. Pierre three times.
Analysis: This was shaping up to be a great matchup for the Ravens DST and they succeeded in delivering for their Fantasy owners. Tampa Bay should provide a little more resistance in Week 12, but the Ravens still stand to be an advisable start in Fantasy.
News: The Ravens' defense has been among the stingiest in the league in preventing points and yardage. However, their DST ranks 24th in Fantasy points due to a lack of sacks and turnover recoveries. In Week 11, they have a chance to feast upon a Panthers' offense that tied with the Cardinals for the NFL lead in turnovers and ranks third in most sacks allowed.
Analysis: The Ravens' DST hasn't produced quite as well as expected, but they are getting a gift of a matchup in Week 11. They are stashed or available on waivers in 16 percent of the leagues on CBSSports.com currently, so it's time to get them on your active roster.
News:Roddy White hauled in a 33-yard touchdown pass from Matt Ryan with 20 seconds remaining and the Atlanta Falcons, after squandering a 13-point lead in the fourth quarter, rallied to beat the Baltimore Ravens, 26-21, in Week 10. Ravens DB Josh Wilson fell down on White's game-winning touchdown, which allowed the veteran receiver to walk into the end zone. The Ravens shut out the Falcons in the first quarter before Atlanta took a 10-0 lead into halftime. The Falcons put up 362 yards, but only gained 60 yards on the ground. Ryan did most of the damage against Baltimore, completing 32 of 50 passes for 316 yards and three scores. Baltimore created no turnovers and got only two sacks from DL Terrell Suggs.
Analysis: Coming into Week 10, the Ravens were allowing just 206 passing yards per game and gave up just eight passing touchdowns. They even had working in their favor the fact that White wasn't expected to be at 100 percent since he injured his knee on Sunday against the Bucs. But White went for 138 yards and two scores, and the Ravens were flat out embarrassed. It doesn't happen often. Baltimore stay on the road in Week 11 to face one of the worst offenses in the league -- Carolina. Make sure to keep the Ravens DST active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Ravens coach John Harbaugh's biggest concern in the Week 10 Thursday night matchup will be trying to slow down an Atlanta offense that has averaged 30.8 points in winning its four home games. The Falcons have won 13 straight home games when starting QB Matt Ryan, who is 17-1 all-time at the Georgia Dome and expects to have his favorite target -- Roddy White -- available despite his knee issue. He is questionable for the game. The Ravens will also have to deal with RB Michael Turner, the NFL's No. 8 rusher with 694 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens have slipped a bit in their rankings, but they maintain their status as one of the NFL's most feared units, and they can create turnovers on any given play. Ed Reed should continue to progress each week since coming off the PUP list as well. Still, Atlanta has fire power all over the field, especially if White plays as we expect. Consider the Ravens DST to be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option on Thursday night.
News: The Ravens DST allowed just 10 points and 289 yards to the Dolphins in a Week 9 victory. Baltimore sacked QB Chad Henne twice and intercepted him three times.
Analysis: The Ravens DST had shown signs of chinks in their armor over the previous few weeks, but they were nice and rested Sunday after their bye and punished the Dolphins. In Week 10, Baltimore will get only a couple of days to prepare for a Thursday night game against Atlanta, which will be a tough test. Consider them a solid start in all formats for the matchup after this fine performance, though.
News: The Ravens DST will face a Miami team in Week 9 that ranks 13th in total offense but is just 23rd in average points scored (19). Baltimore is coming off a very disappointing game in Week 7 against the Bills, when they gave up 506 yards and 34 points.
Analysis: The Ravens DST isn't the feared Fantasy unit it used to be, but they will be nice and rested coming off their bye and shouldn't have much trouble stopping the anemic Miami running game. The passing game is another thing, as Baltimore has been sliced up through the air in recent weeks, but the unit is still generally competent enough to use as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 9.
News: The Ravens DST was a massive disappointment in a Week 7 win over the Bills. Baltimore gave up 506 yards and 34 points and made up for those numbers a little by forcing four turnovers (two fumbles, two interceptions).
Analysis: This outing by the Baltimore DST proves that it is no longer the feared unit it used to be in Fantasy years past. If the Bills can put up this many yards and points, the Dolphins must be thinking they can do even better in Week 9, although Baltimore will be nice and rested after a bye. Continue to use the Ravens in all formats for now, but just temper your expectations a little.
News: The Ravens DST will face the offensively-challenged Bills in Week 7, and Baltimore should be able to put up a solid haul of Fantasy points with this matchup. While this unit ranks 20th overall in standard scoring leagues this season, Buffalo should struggle to put up points and yards against Baltimore.
Analysis: Sure, the Ravens haven't been their normal elite selves recently, especially against the pass, but this matchup is just too mouth-watering to pass up in any Fantasy format. If they can get to QB Ryan Fitzpatrick early and stop him from adding to his seven touchdowns in the last three games, Baltimore should be able to create turnovers, and the Bills are really no threat to run on the Ravens front seven. Buffalo ranks 30th in total offense this season, so start the Ravens as an elite Fantasy option for Week 7.
News: The Ravens defense did its part to hold back Patriots QB Tom Brady, sacking him three times and picking him off twice including once on a Hail Mary at the end of regulation. But Brady still connected on one touchdown pass to Deion Branch and threw for 292 yards in the Pats' overtime win over the Ravens. Additionally, tiny running back Danny Woodhead had 63 rush yards on 11 carries, totally catching the Ravens off guard.
Analysis: The story should be much different in Week 7 when the Ravens host the lowly Bills. Count on the Ravens DST to pin down the Buffalo offense and create more turnovers in their next matchup.
News: The Ravens' vaunted defense (second vs. the pass, 10th vs. the run, six total touchdowns allowed) will get the first look at the Patriots' new-look offense on Sunday. New England traded WR Randy Moss a week ago and has had a bye week since to get refocused and acclimate veteran receiver Deion Branch into the mix. But Ravens head coach John Harbaugh isn't expecting a change. "I think it will be the same offense," he said Wednesday. "I think they’ll run the same plays. They’ll just put guys in position to do the things that they do well. Tight ends have made a big difference for them. Their offense is evolving even with the players that they have with the young guys."
Analysis: The Ravens will have their hands full, especially since there could be some wrinkles added to the offense that perhaps Harbaugh isn't thinking about (or tipping his hand to let the Pats know he's thinking about). Either way, the Ravens DST isn't considered to be a great option for Week 6, but if your thin on roster space and don't want to pick up another unit, go ahead and stick with them.
News: The Ravens DST gave up 17 points and 346 yards to the Broncos in a Week 5 win. Baltimore failed to force a turnover and had just one sack.
Analysis: Denver's poor running game was limited by Baltimore on Sunday, but once they got up big, the secondary played soft and allowed QB Kyle Orton to rack up a ton of late yardage and a touchdown. In Week 6, Baltimore will be the first team to face a Randy Moss-less Patriots team, and will likely be a solid No. 1 Fantasy option for that matchup.
News: The Ravens DST ranks No. 1 in the NFL in total defense, but ranks 21st against the run. In Week 5, the Broncos come to town sporting the NFL's worst rushing attack, averaging just 55 yards per game on the ground. LB Terrell Suggs expects the Broncos to establish the run. “Definitely. They know we’re professionals, and we see that they threw the ball 50 times [against Tennessee]," Suggs said. "I think they definitely might try to switch it up and run the ball.” The Ravens defense has the NFL's top ranked defense against the pass allowing just 119 yards per game; Denver QB Kyle Orton leads the NFL in passing yards with 1,419 yards.
Analysis: Something has got to give in the passing game, so the running game could be the key. The Broncos might have to try to establish the run without Knowshon Moreno, who is still hindered by the hamstring injury that kept him out of the week 4 win over the Titans. In his absence, the Broncos could distribute carries between Lawrence Maroney and Correll Buckhalter, two backs that have not found success against Baltimore earlier in their careers. Expect the Ravens to force the Broncos to run. The DST remains a Fantasy must-start Week 5 against Denver.
News: The Ravens held the Pittsburgh Steelers to just 14 points in a 17-14 win at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh's offense was limited to only 210 yards in the game. Baltimore forced just one turnover in the game -- an interception -- and managed just two sacks. The Ravens allowed a pair of rushing touchdowns to RB Rashard Mendenhall, but held him under 100 yards. QB Charlie Batch was held to just 141 yards passing.
Analysis: The Ravens continued their dominance on defense this season. They have yet to allow an opponent to score more than 17 points and remain one of the elite defensive units in Fantasy. Don't hesitate to start them in any format for Week 5 against the Broncos, who put up 26 points and 327 net offensive yards in Week 4 against the Titans.
News: The Ravens defense will be up against a Steelers team that is without QB Ben Roethlisberger in Week 4 as he serves the final game of his league-imposed four-game suspension. With Charlie Batch at the helm, the Steelers totaled an impressive 387 yards and 38 points against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but still rank 23rd overall in the NFL in terms of total offense. Last season, the Ravens held the Steelers to 40 points combined over two games played.
Analysis: The Steelers have allowed seven sacks over their first three games. They have committed just four turnovers as they haven't asked too much from their quarterbacks while Roethlisberger sits out. Expect the Steelers to continue to take few risks against the Ravens, which may limit the amount of turnovers and sacks that will be available, but there also won't be much of a threat for huge yardage or a lot of points on the scoreboard. The Steelers have a solid ground game with Rashard Mendenhall doing the heavy lifting, but we anticipate a low-scoring game between two defensive-minded team and view the Ravens as a must-start defensive unit as usual.
News: The Baltimore Ravens beat the Cleveland Browns 24-17 in Week 3 at home but it wasn't the defensive battle most probably believed the game would be. Instead, the Ravens DST looked vulnerable, allowing RB Peyton Hillis to rack up 144 rushing yards. In all, the Ravens gave up 304 yards of offense to the Browns and did not force a single turnover. The Ravens DST could only get to Seneca Wallace twice for sacks as the quarterback was shifty and often avoided the rush. There were no defensive touchdowns scored in the game.
Analysis: The Ravens did not display a big-play defense Week 3 against the Browns. Fantasy owners should come away from this game highly disappointed in the Fantasy production by the DST unit and the rest of the NFL should come away believing that the Ravens can be scored upon. Despite not giving up an offensive touchdown in its first two games, the Ravens scored twice against them Week 3. Baltimore has yet to come away with an interception on the season and only has two turnovers forced and five sacks after three games. Entering Week 4 in Pittsburgh, however, you have to consider the Ravens DST a No. 1 unit. The Week 4 game is going to be a highly defensive battle.
News: The Baltimore Ravens DST enters the Week 3 game at home against the Browns not as one of the best Fantasy units thus far on the season. In fact, with no interceptions or defensive touchdowns and just three sacks in two games, the Ravens haven't been all that opportune. That said, only the Titans have allowed fewer yards this season and the Ravens did that against the Jets and Bengals, two playoff contenders, on the road. Only four teams have held opponents to fewer points than have the Ravens.
Analysis: The Browns have been dismal offensively. They are 0-2 against two teams not in the class of the Bengals and Jets and those teams' DSTs performed like top units against Cleveland. Just last week the Chiefs DST limited Cleveland to just 73 rushing yards and scored a defensive touchdown on an interception return. Baltimore may have not come up with a load of turnovers in the early going against two good teams, but something tells that is going to change against Cleveland. Treat the Ravens DST like a must-start No. 1 Fantasy unit for Week 3.
News: The Ravens couldn't pull one out in Week 2 against the Bengals despite another brilliant day by their defense, which hasn't allowed a touchdown in its past 10 quarters including the playoffs. Baltimore was in position for a 10-9 win -- the same score it beat the Jets in Week 1 -- after Billy Cundiff kicked a 38-yard field goal with 5:46 to go. But Mike Nugent would add two more field goals in the final five minutes and have five for the day to put away the Ravens, 15-10. Baltimore gave up 253 total yards (94 rushing). It managed just one sack and forced no turnovers.
Analysis: Baltimore's defense was galled by two calls that contributed to field-goal drives. Ray Lewis got a penalty for tripping after he rolled into Carson Palmer for a sack. Terrell Suggs was called for roughing the passer when he wrapped his arms around Palmer on another sack and drove him backward for the tackle. "There were six points given off [bad] calls," Lewis said. "It's six points. They didn't earn it. You don't come into a lion's den and play nice, man. This is football, and football is getting hit. There's so many rules that take away from the game." Despite the loss, the Ravens still showed in Week 2 why they are one of the best defenses in the NFL. It's a shame they didn't get many sacks or any turnovers, but the Ravens DST is still a solid play in Fantasy. Keep them active for Week 3 against the Browns.
News: The Baltimore Ravens' upgraded offense almost certainly will play a role this season in helping the team attempt to stay on course for a third straight playoff appearance. In the opener against the talkative New York Jets, however, it was the defense -- as usual -- that provided the key plays in a 10-9 victory. With Ray Lewis leading the way Monday night, Baltimore did not allow a touchdown, limited the Jets to only six first downs and gave up a mere 74 yards passing. "It was the best defensive performance I've seen here," coach John Harbaugh said Tuesday. Having won an emotional game against the Jets, the Ravens next face the Cincinnati Bengals on the road in Week 2 in an AFC North matchup. Baltimore allowed 34 points and 772 yards in two games against Cincinnati last season.
Analysis: Much of the talk surrounding the Ravens during the preseason centered upon the enriched passing attack and the lack of depth in the defensive backfield. Cornerbacks Chris Carr and Fabian Washington, backed by safeties Dawan Landry and Tom Zbikowski, allowed only 10 pass completions. "I like the way our guys played technique on the back end," Harbaugh said. Part of the credit goes to a pass rush headed by tackle Haloti Ngata and linebackers Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs. They will all need to be on top of their game in Week 2 as they face an offense led by Carson Palmer, and has such weapons as Cedric Benson, Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco. The Ravens DST is still a solid No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 2.
News: The Ravens held the Jets to just 176 yards of total offense in Week 1 and did not give up a touchdown in the 10-9 win. Baltimore stymied the running game and held the opponent to 116 yards on the ground. They recorded two sacks and forced a fumble while not doing much in the return game. New York completed just 10 passes for 74 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens showed why they are one of the top defenses in the league in Week 1 and stuffed the running game all night long. They were able to put constant pressure on second-year quarterback Mark Sanchez and brought him down twice. They had one blunder on special teams but it did not cost them in the long run. Baltimore faces the Bengals in Week 2. Fantasy owners should continue to view the Ravens D as a solid No. 1 option.
News: The Ravens enter Week 1 against the Jets a little shorthanded as they will be without Pro Bowl S Ed Reed, on the PUP list, and DB Domonique Foxworth against a team that ranked 20th in the league in total offense a year ago. Although New York finished second to last in the NFL in passing, their running game was tops in the league. Newcomers like Terrence Cody and old stars like Ray Lewis and Haloti Ngata will help the Ravens against the run.
Analysis: Baltimore was tied for eighth in the league against the pass last season and ranked No. 5 against the run. Playing without Reed will doesn’t help but the Ravens’ strengths match up well against New York. Consider the Ravens DST as a solid option heading into Week 1 and expect them to be even better once Reed returns later on in the season.
News: Ravens coach John Harbaugh told the Baltimore Sun on Friday that safety Ed Reed (hip) will begin the season on the PUP list. However, he is expected to be ready for Week 7 vs. Buffalo. A player on the PUP list is out for at least the first six weeks of the season. Tom Zbikowski and Ken Hamlin will fill in at free safety in Reed's absence.
Analysis: Losing Reed for the first six weeks of the season is never a good thing and it's another major loss for the Baltimore, who already lost DB Domonique Foxworth for the season. The good news is that it does appear Reed will play this season, barring a setback. The Ravens still have a good enough mix on defense to survive Reed's temporary loss. Continue to view the Ravens DST a No. 1 option. Reed is merely a draft and stash player in deeper IDP formats.
News: The Seahawks have traded CB Josh Wilson to the Baltimore Ravens for a conditional draft pick. Wilson made 24 starts for Seattle over the last two seasons. He finished with 76 tackles and four interceptions in 2008 but dropped to 45 total tackles in 12 games last season with two interceptions -- and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Wilson provides excellent depth to a Ravens secondary ravaged by injuries. We like the deal and it helps buoy the value of the Baltimore DST. Consider them with a late-round pick as a No. 1 option.
News: Ravens CB Lardarius Webb, on the PUP list while recovering from surgery to repair a torn ACL suffered in December, could be activated as early as Thursday morning, according to the Baltimore Sun. Webb took part in the team's conditioning test on Wednesday, an indication he was ready to return to practice. "He’s really doing well," head coach John Harbaugh said, giving credence to the report. "I think he’s progressing ahead of schedule, that’s what I’ve been told. It won’t be long before you see him off the PUP and out here practicing with the guys, but I think we are going to be cautious with him.”
Analysis: Finally some good news for the Ravens secondary, which is without CBs Domonique Foxworth and Walt Harris, both lost for the season because of knee injuries, and safety Ed Reed, also on the PUP list following hip surgery. But the front seven should have no trouble getting pressure on opposing passers, which can cover up for some weaknesses in pass coverage. With an average draft position of 110th, they remain a No. 1 Fantasy option at DST.
News: Ravens CB Chris Carr limped off the field Saturday grabbing his hamstring, and went to the locker room along with a trainer. However, he left the locker room with no braces or wrappings, and insisted he wasn't seriously injured. "I'm fine," Carr said. "I will be ready to play when the time comes."
Analysis: Add Carr to the list of walking wounded that is the Ravens' secondary. He is a candidate to replace starting CB Domonique Foxworth, who was lost for the season after suffering a knee injury earlier in camp. The other starter, Fabian Washington, is coming off a knee injury last season, as are backups Ladarius Webb (knee) and Walt Harris (Achilles'). Not to mention safety Ed Reed, who is on the PUP list due to a hip injury. Baltimore now has to worry about getting enough pressure on opposing QBs, without rookie LB Sergio Kindle (head), with what could be a piecemeal secondary. Monitor this situation closely before Draft Day, as their lack of healthy bodies in coverage could change them from a No. 1 DST to a No. 2.
News: Ravens head coach John Harbaugh confirmed that CB Domonique Foxworth tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a non-contact drill during Thursday's closed practice. He said the injury occurred when Foxworth planted his foot to change direction. He is expected to miss the entire season. The Ravens have several players who would compete for Foxworth's spot, including veterans Chris Carr and Walt Harris and young player Ladarius Webb. Webb is coming off a torn ACL of his own, as is the Ravens' other starting cornerback, Fabian Washington.
Analysis: Between Foxworth's injury, Washington and Webb coming back from torn ACLs and Ed Reed's absence from the field, the Ravens secondary is looking quite vulnerable. They'll have a solid front seven to help apply pressure to opposing quarterbacks, but in a pass-driven league (and with opponents having no choice but to throw against the Ravens) this could be a serious issue. The Ravens DST remains a No. 1 Fantasy option because of their other components, but if passing touchdowns and passing yards count against you in your league, this unit shouldn't be viewed as an optimal choice.
News: The Ravens, as expected, have placed safety Ed Reed on the PUP list, reports the Baltimore Sun. This isn't much of a surprise since Reed is recovering from offseason hip surgery, and the move was expected. The question now becomes if Reed will open the regular season on the PUP list, which means he would be out for the first six games of the season.
Analysis: There's a reason the Ravens signed Ken Hamlin this offseason and it was because of the chance Reed could be out to start the season. Without Reed, the Ravens DST would take a hit in Fantasy value. They are still a No. 1 unit with or without Reed, but if Reed starts on the PUP list then consider the Ravens a middle of the pack unit. If Reed is healthy for Week 1 then the Ravens have the chance to be a Top 5 DST in all formats.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that Ravens DB Ed Reed is almost a certainty to start training camp on PUP list, and he's not expected to play at all in the preseason. He recently said he is 35 percent recovered from offseason hip surgery. The report states the most likely scenario is placing Reed on the Reserve PUP list at the start of the regular season, which would mean he misses at least the first six weeks.
Analysis: There's a reason the Ravens signed Ken Hamlin this offseason and it was because of the chance Reed could be out to start the season. Without Reed, the Ravens DST would take a hit in Fantasy value. They are still a No. 1 unit with or without Reed, but if Reed starts on the PUP list then consider the Ravens a middle of the pack unit. If Reed is healthy for Week 1 then the Ravens have the chance to be a Top 5 DST in all formats.
News: Ravens FS Ed Reed said in an interview on Sirius/XM radio that he is "35 percent healthy" and is unsure if he will return in time for the start of the regular season. Reed disclosed that he had reconstructive hip surgery and had a torn labrum in his shoulder replaced during the offseason. "It's a four-to-six-month process to getting yourself back to 100 percent, to get yourself in shape to start working out for a season," Reed said regarding his availability. "I want to come back. I want to be ready for the first game but I don't know how soon that would happen."
Analysis: With the Ravens recent signing of safety Ken Hamlin, there's a legit chance that Reed will miss at least part of the season. He's a pretty big reason why Fantasy owners like the Ravens DST year after year. His absence will mean something, but the defense is still well stocked, especially up front. Continue to view the Ravens DST as a No. 1 option, but not as the No. 1 option.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Ravens safety Ed Reed will likely miss this weekend's minicamp after he underwent a "procedure" in his hip area this offseason. Reed missed four games in December because of a hip injury. He returned to play the regular-season finale at Oakland and two playoff games, where he made two interceptions.
Analysis: Reed is expected to be fine for the start of the season, but keep an eye on his recovery heading into training camp. When healthy, Reed is a must-start DB in IDP leagues and makes the Ravens DST a solid unit in all formats.
News: The Ravens' top two picks in the 2010 NFL Draft were made with the defensive front seven in mind. With two second-round selections, the team selected Texas OLB Sergio Kindle and Alabama DT Terrence Cody. They also picked up Syracuse DT Arthur Jones in the fifth round.
Analysis: The additions of Kindle and Cody are impressive ones, and as they were two players we liked a lot heading into the draft, the though of them joining the ranks of the Ravens should lead to success. It also makes their front seven even deeper and more talented. The secondary is still a bit of an issue, though Ed Reed is expected back. There's no doubt that the Ravens DST is a No. 1 option worth drafting late in leagues this summer.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Ravens coach Jim Harbaugh continues to assume that Pro Bowl safety Ed Reed is not retiring. They have been texting back and forth but haven't gotten into "any deep conversation," according to Harbaugh. "What I understand him saying is, the door is always open," Harbaugh said. "He isn't going to play beyond what his body is going to allow. At the same time, I think he's going to play this year. I think he's going to play next year and the year after that until he says he's not."
Analysis: Until we hear otherwise, plan on Reed playing in 2010. He remains a solid No. 2 DB in IDP leagues, and his presence should allow the Ravens DST to play at a high level.
News: The National Football Post reports that Ravens safety Ed Reed is expected to return in 2010 according to several teammates. Reed added in an interview on Sirius NFL Radio that it would take a significant setback to keep him from playing in the upcoming season. Reed is dealing with a nerve impingement in his neck, something that has plagued him for a while. In other Ravens news, the team hired ex-Patriots defensive coordinator Dean Pees to coach their linebackers and assist in the defensive playcalling in 2010.
Analysis: The addition of Pees along with the return of Reed would help keep the Ravens DST a draft-worthy unit to consider in 2010. They're still worth a late-round pick.
News: The Ravens didn't have their best defensive performance of the season Week 17 at Oakland, but they certainly had a respectable one, limiting the hosting Raiders to 13 points on 325 yards. They recorded three sacks and one interception and recovered one fumble.
Analysis: The Ravens DST had allowed less than 300 yards in each of its last three games, so it did take something of a step back this week. Still, if this is one of its worst performances, it's clearly a dominant unit in Fantasy -- one of the few you can start on an every-week basis. It should remain a No. 1 option entering 2010.
News: The Ravens DST had four sacks, one interception, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery Sunday at Pittsburgh in a 23-20 loss. Jalen Parmele had five kickoff returns for 145 yards, and Chris Carr had two punt returns for 24 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens DST had a tough matchup Sunday at the Steelers. Look for them to rebound in Week 17 at Oakland. Consider the Ravens DST a No. 1 option in the season finale against the Raiders.
News: Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Monday he's optimistic S Ed Reed, who has missed the past three games with a groin injury, will return to the lineup against the Steelers on Sunday.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Reed's status and hope he can return against the Steelers. When healthy, he is a No. 1 DB in IDP leagues, and Reed's presence has a big impact on making the Ravens DST an even better Fantasy option.
News: The Ravens DST dominated the Bears on Sunday in a 31-7 victory. The Ravens had four interceptions, two fumble recoveries, three forced fumbles and two sacks. Lardarius Webb had two kickoff returns for 57 yards, and Chris Carr had four punt returns for 32 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens continue to play at a high level, and this was a great matchup for them. They don't have the same type of matchup in Week 16 at Pittsburgh, but continue to use the Ravens as a No. 1 option in all leagues.
News: The Ravens defense locked down the Detroit offense all afternoon on Sunday in a 48-3 win in Week 14. The Lions mustered only 135 yards through the air as Daunte Culpepper got the start for Matthew Stafford. Culpepper threw interceptions to Tom Zbikowski and Chris Carr. Antwan Barnes was the only played able to sack Culpepper in the contest. On the ground, the Lions were limited to 103 yards on 32 carries.
Analysis: The Ravens defense has been one of the top units in the league for some time now and they asserted their dominance over a weaker foe in Week 14. The Ravens DST should again be considered a No. 1 Fantasy unit against a Chicago offense that has struggled for the most part this season.
News: The Baltimore Ravens made Packers QB Aaron Rodgers look shakier than teams have been able to make him look in some time during the Week 13 Monday night game in Green Bay. Of course, The Ravens still lost the game, 27-14. The Ravens DST allowed 350 yards of total offense in the defeat but did intercept Rodgers twice and force a fumble as well. The Ravens DST got to Rodgers for only one sack in the game, however.
Analysis: The Baltimore DST was definitely banged up for this game without Ed Reed and Terrell Suggs. There is a chance the Ravens will get both back for Week 14 against Detroit. The Lions are terrible and Baltimore should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy DST unit for next weekend’s game.
News: The Ravens might have won in Week 12 vs. the Steelers but their DST totaled a lone interception of Dennis Dixon in overtime. They were expected to fare better against Dixon, who did just enough to give the Steelers a semblance of a passing game. The Ravens allowed only 145 passing yards but yielded 153 rush yards in the win.
Analysis: The Ravens DST will have their hands full in Week 13 when they play at Green Bay. If pass rusher Terrell Suggs isn't back yet, the defense will struggle to get to Aaron Rodgers and clamp down on his receivers. Consider other options if you can over the Ravens in Week 13.
News: With the news that the Steelers will play at the Ravens in Week 12 without starting QB Ben Roethlisberger, the outlook for the Ravens defense is much better. Second-year quarterback Dennis Dixon will get the nod for Pittsburgh, and he's more of a project-type passer than anything else. The Steelers aren't expected to put the ball in the air much and will likely run more, which plays to the strength of the Baltimore defense. Tack on the inexperienced Dixon likely to make a mistake, and the Ravens should easily come up with some turnovers.
Analysis: Additionally, the Steelers have allowed a kickoff-return for a touchdown in four of their last five games. EVerything looks great for the Ravens defense and special teams in this matchup -- start them in all leagues.
News: Baltimore Ravens CB Fabian Washington is expected to miss the remainder of the season after hurting his knee during Sunday's loss to the Indianapolis Colts. "It looks like he has an ACL tear. As of right now, we're proceeding as if he's done for the season," coach John Harbaugh said Monday. On his Twitter account, Washington wrote: "Thanx for all of your support. Yes I do have a torn ACL. But I'll get through this. Go Ravens." Washington has started all 10 games in 2009 for the Ravens (5-5). Although the five-year veteran does not have an interception, he's made 40 tackles - including a career-high tying nine in a win over Denver earlier this month. With Washington gone, rookie Lardarius Webb should receive more playing time.
Analysis: Washington was a starting corner for the Ravens but he doesn't rack up a lot of interceptions or tackles. He has little to no Fantasy appeal when healthy and can be kept off Fantasy rosters going forward. Webb sees a slight boost in value here but not much. This hurts the Ravens DST more than anything but they remain a high-end unit regardless.
News: The Ravens DST allowed 17 points and 375 yards to the Colts in a Week 11 loss. Baltimore did manage to force three turnovers (two interceptions, one fumble).
Analysis: Baltimore did a pretty good job of limiting Peyton Manning on Sunday, but they allowed a season-high 74 yards to Joseph Addai and went without a sack. The Ravens' Fantasy value in Week 12 will likely depend on whether Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger recovers in time from a concussion. If Charlie Batch is forced to start, the Baltimore DST would be a nice sleeper No. 1 option in all formats.
News: ESPN reports that Ravens DT Haloti Ngata is expected to play in Week 11 vs. the Colts. The Ravens need him to help stop the run and collapse the pocket against Peyton Manning. Baltimore is already playing this game (and its next two) without LB Terrell Suggs.
Analysis: Even with Ngata playing, the Ravens DST is expected to give up a slew of yards and plenty of points this week. Consider other options off waivers if you have the chance to without cutting the Ravens DST. Ngata isn't worth a look in IDP formats.
News: Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs will miss Sunday's game against the Colts because of a knee injury. Suggs has a sprained ligament in his right knee, Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Wednesday. Suggs was injured on an illegal chop block by Browns quarterback Brady Quinn following an interception by the Ravens Monday night in Baltimore's 16-0 win. The three-time Pro Bowler will miss his first NFL game in seven years - ending his streak at 105 and couple be out up to three weeks. Suggs will be replaced by rookie Paul Kruger.
Analysis: So let's see, the Ravens defense will be without their best pass rusher against Peyton Manning and the undefeated Colts in Week 11. Sounds like a good time to bench the Ravens DST if you can help it. Sleeper DSTs that might be available on waivers include the Jaguars, Dolphins, Cardinals and even the Lions (they host the Browns).
News: The Baltimore Ravens didn't play all that well offensively but still manhandled the Browns in Cleveland on Monday night of Week 10. The Ravens DST was dominant in the 16-0 win as they pitched the shutout. It was Baltimore's first shutout since Nov. 26, 2006. The Ravens DST held the Browns to 160 total yards of offense and forced two turnovers, both coming on interceptions. The first pick was by DB Dawan Landry, who took the ball 48 yards for a defensive touchdown. The Ravens sacked QB Brady Quinn four times in the game and kept him running for his life on most downs.
Analysis: The Ravens DST was absolutely dominant on Monday night in Week 10. They did it all with sacks, turnovers, defensive touchdowns and a shut out. They remain a high-end Fantasy unit but will have a stiff test in Week 11 against Indianapolis. If you can find another solid option that is playing a weak offense, you might consider using them. Otherwise, you can still roll with the Ravens.
News: Baltimore's defense didn't look like what nostalgic Fantasy owners would remember during their Week 9 loss at Cincinnati. The Ravens DST gave up 369 yards of offense in the 17-7 loss. Baltimore only managed one sack in the game and Ed Reed forced and recovered a Chad Ochocinco fumble.
Analysis: The Ravens DST was awful for Fantasy owners in the Week 9 loss. Fortunately, Baltimore plays at Cleveland in Week 10. The Browns are awful and make the Ravens DST a solid play for the week.
News: Baltimore put a stop to the undefeated season hopes of the Denver Broncos on Sunday of Week 8. The Ravens used the home-field advantage to defeat Denver 30-7. The Ravens DST looked good in limiting the Broncos to just 200 yards of offense. Baltimore sacked QB Kyle Orton just twice in the game, however, and the Ravens forced only one turnover when Knowshon Moreno put the ball on the ground. The biggest occurrence for the Ravens DST came on Lardarius Webb's second-half-opening 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
Analysis: The special teams touchdown was the icing on the cake for a Baltimore defense that had an excellent day in ending Denver's undefeated season. Baltimore faces the Bengals in Cincinnati in Week 9 and should be a solid Fantasy DST unit for use in all leagues for that game.
News: The Ravens DST did little Sunday at Minnesota in a 33-31 loss. The Ravens had three sacks but no turnovers. Ray Lewis, Dwan Edwards and Trevor Pryce had the sacks.
Analysis: The Ravens will look to rebound following their bye in Week 7 when they face Denver in Week 8. Keep the Ravens DST reserved in all leagues in Week 7.
News: There's only one thing left for the Ravens to do after Cedric Benson ended their streak of 39 straight games without allowing a 100-yard rusher. "Start another one. That's what you do," linebacker Ray Lewis said. "It's not like a free throw, man. Some days you're on, some days you're going to miss. You just move on. The thing for us is to just go back and have fun." The Ravens' next assignment - stopping Adrian Peterson of the unbeaten Minnesota Vikings - appears to be more dangerous than fun. If the Ravens don't fix what went wrong in last week's 17-14 loss to Cincinnati, they won't be starting a new streak but rather will extend to two their run of permitting a 100-yard rusher.
Analysis: The Ravens didn't do that nearly enough against Benson, who ran for 120 yards in becoming the first running back to reach the century mark against Baltimore since Larry Johnson of Kansas City in December 2006. "Technique-wise, we didn't play very well. They gashed us," Ravens linebacker Jarret Johnson said. Despite allowing three rushing TDs in the past two games, the Ravens DST remains one of the top units Week 6 at Minnesota and should be able to handle the Vikings offense better than most.
News: The Ravens defense had an impressive streak snapped on Sunday in a Week 5 17-14 loss to the Bengals. It had been 39 games since the Ravens allowed a 100-yard rusher before Cincinnati's Cedric Benson racked up 120 yards on Sunday in Week 5. Benson carried the ball 27 times to gain that many yards. The Ravens defense allowed 142 yards on the ground in total and one Benson TD. Carson Palmer threw for 271 yards in the game on 18 for 31 passing and a touchdown. Ed Reed provided six of the team's 14 points Week 5, intercepting a Palmer pass and taking it to the house 52 yards the other way. Domonique Foxworth also recovered a Chad Ochocinco fumble that was caused by Reed. Larry Johnson of Kansas City, in 2006, was the last RB to rush for 100 yards against the Ravens.
Analysis: The Ravens' run defense was not nearly what Fantasy owners have come to expect in Week 5, allowing Benson and Palmer to methodically move the Bengals down the field much of the day. Despite allowing three rushing TDs in the past two games, the Ravens DST remains one of the top units Week 6 at Minnesota.
News: The Ravens DST allowed 319 total yards and 27 points Sunday at New England, but Dwan Edwards recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown to give the Ravens a defensive score. The Ravens also added three sacks and two forced fumbles. On special teams, Chris Carr had three kickoff returns for 63.9 yards and Lardarius Webb had one kickoff return for 38 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens allowed their first two rushing touchdowns of the season Sunday and struggled at times with Tom Brady and the passing game, but the Ravens still find a way to be productive for Fantasy owners. Look for them to play great in Week 5 against the Bengals and consider them a No. 1 option in all formats.
News: Baltimore dominated Cleveland in Week 3, 34-3. The Browns were lucky they managed even three points in the defeat as they were embarrassed. Brady Quinn was pulled after throwing an interception and Derek Anderson relieved him and threw three more. Cleveland amassed just 186 total yards in the game and were sacked twice. Baltimore did not recover any fumbles in the game or score any defensive touchdowns but it was still a dominating effort for the Ravens DST.
Analysis: The Browns are awful so you had to see this coming from the Ravens in Week 3. Things won't be nearly as easy in Week 4 at New England. Consider Baltimore worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy DST pretty much every week but just realize the Patriots are not the Browns.
News:Ray Lewis met Darren Sproles head-on on fourth-and-2 in the closing seconds, preserving a 31-26 win for the Baltimore Ravens over the San Diego Chargers in Week 2. The star linebacker's big play spoiled a monster afternoon by San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers, who almost single-handedly kept the short-handed Chargers in the game. Rivers threw for a career-high 436 yards and two touchdowns, completing 25 of 45 passes. The Chargers needed a touchdown to win and had the ball on Baltimore's 15 with 33 seconds left. Lewis came in unblocked and slammed the little running back to the ground for a 5-yard loss, and the Ravens (2-0) ran out the clock. The Chargers finished with 474 total yards. Baltimore had two sacks and two interceptions.
Analysis: The defense definitely came up big when it counted most, but for Fantasy purposes it was a failed performance for the Ravens DST. Rivers passed at will and the Chargers racked up the points and yards. Well, even the best defenses have off days. The Ravens will look to get back on track in Week 3 against the Browns. It's a favorable matchup, so consider starting the Ravens DST.
News: MASNsports.com reports that Terrell Suggs and Ed Reed both suffered a concussion in Week 1's game against the Chiefs. Suggs did not practice today and is considered questionable for Week 2 against the Chargers. Safety Tom Zbikowski also suffered a concussion in the game.
Analysis: Suggs said after Sunday's game that he collided with Ed Reed at one point, which likely caused the concussion. "Me and Ed Reed hit each other in the head, you know, playing Ravens football," Suggs said at the time. "It's liable to happen like that, but I got right back in there. No biggie. I was a little woozy. I was just really dazed, but...I just shrugged it off, just a little dazed then and there. I'm good." Even if Suggs or Reed can't go Week 2 against the Chargers, the Ravens DST remains a No. 1 Fantasy option. Monitor the status of these two players the rest of the week before making a decision on the Ravens DST for Week 2.
News: In the Ravens' Week 1 win vs. the Chiefs, the defense tallied three sacks and a forced fumble while holding their opponent to just 29 rush yards. The Kansas City offense did score two touchdowns through the air, though.
Analysis: The Ravens DST will continue to be a strong Fantasy asset even though Kansas City put up 24 points. They'll have their hands full in Week 2 at San Diego, though. They'll be hard to sit in Fantasy play unless you have another great DST with a solid matchup.
News:The Baltimore Sun reports that Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (heel) took part in Monday's morning walkthrough and was able to practice Monday. There is a chance that Suggs could see some limited action in Thursday's preseason finale at Atlanta. "We want Suggs to take part this week," coach John Harbaugh said.
Analysis: Suggs hurt his heel on Aug. 2 and has been sidelined ever since. Fantasy owners should not be concerned about his status for the start of the regular season as it does sound like he'll be ready for that. Keep thinking of Suggs as a No. 2 Fantasy LB on Draft Day as this injury should not slow him down. The Ravens defense has been dealing with several injuries in the preseason but remains a worthy No. 1 Fantasy unit.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that Ed Reed spoke to reporters Friday for the first time during training camp. He said he still hasn't fully recovered from a nerve impingement in his neck and shoulder, which bothered him throughout last season. "It's still sore," Reed said. "It still is what it is at this point."
Analysis: The report adds that Reed is thinking about ways to adjust to playing with the soreness. "Just got to be smarter. Thinking about my son and the longevity of life, that keeps you playing differently," said Reed. We still donsider him a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy DB worth a middle-round pick in drafts, but this is something to keep in mind. Reed may not be playing with the same killer instinct he has in the past. The Ravens DST remains a No. 1 unit as well for now, but this is something to keep an eye on.
News: Ravens LB Terrell Suggs agreed to terms Wednesday on a six-year contract, a deal that provides a long-term solution to his unsettled status as the team's franchise player. Suggs has been the Ravens' franchise player for the past two seasons. "Getting a deal done with Terrell is consistent with our history of retaining our best Pro Bowl players, like Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Jonathan Ogden, Todd Heap and Jamal Lewis," Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome said. "Securing Terrell for six seasons gives us a premier pass-rusher whose ability to stop the run does not get enough credit." During his six years with the Ravens, Suggs has 53 sacks and has not missed a game. He led Baltimore with eight sacks last season and added four more in the postseason, including two in the AFC championship game against Pittsburgh after missing an entire week of practice with a shoulder injury. "This will be Suggs' seventh season, and he is still a young player," Newsome said. "Remember, he came to us as a 20-year old rookie after his junior year in college. This is a good day for the Ravens franchise."
Analysis: Suggs can continue to be counted on as a solid No. 2 Fantasy LB if he continues to bring his sack and tackle totals from last season on a consistent basis (he led the Ravens with eight sacks and finished third on the team with a career-best 102 tackles in 2008). Having him locked up will allow the Ravens DST to remain a No. 1 unit as well.
News: The Ravens have signed backup cornerback Chris Carr and waived veteran Samari Rolle. Carr signed a 2-year, $5 million deal Wednesday, while cutting Rolle saves the team $4.1 million under the salary cap. Carr is expected to back up Fabian Washington and Domonique Foxworth and return kicks. Rolle has spent the past four seasons with the Ravens, playing 48 games. He was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2007 but returned to play in six games that season. Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome says he hasn't ruled out bringing him back to Baltimore.
Analysis: The addition of Carr is a good one for the DST as he's an effective kick returner and nickelback. He'll help the unit, which already is ranked close to the top for 2009. With Ray Lewis re-signing, Terrell Suggs franchised and Ed Reed the veteran Raven in the secondary, this DST can still make plenty of plays. Consider them a No. 1 option worth a middle- to late-round pick in drafts this summer.
News: The Baltimore Ravens have agreed to terms with middle linebacker Ray Lewis on a multiyear contract. "We got better today. Our football team got better. I am very happy," general manager Ozzie Newsome said. "This will allow Ray to finish his career as a Raven." The 10-time Pro Bowl pick had three interceptions and two fumble recoveries last season. By keeping Lewis, the Ravens fill the void created at inside linebacker when Bart Scott signed with the New York Jets. Lewis earned his 10th Pro Bowl this season after leading the NFL's second-ranked defense with 160 tackles. He also had 3 1/2 sacks, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries.
Analysis: Lewis will remain a solid LB in IDP leagues in 2009 now that he's back with the Ravens. Consider taking him as a No. 1 option. This also makes the Ravens a formidable DST again even with the loss of Scott. With Lewis and Ed Reed, the Ravens DST can still make plenty of plays.
News: The Ravens have agreed to terms with former Falcons cornerback Domonique Foxworth on a four-year, $28 million contract that includes $16.5 million in guaranteed money. Foxworth played his college ball at The University of Maryland. In 14 games last year, he had 38 total tackles, one interception and 11 passes defensed. In other news, the defense lost LB Bart Scott to the Jets and are reportedly trying to keep Ray Lewis even though he told NFL Network on Friday that he's leaving Baltimore.
Analysis: Foxworth is a serviceable cornerback who should help the Ravens against the pass as he replaces Chris McAlister. He's not a shutdown corner by any means, however. If the Ravens lose Scott and Lewis, they're going to suddenly have a hole in the middle of their defense as well as in the middle of their locker room. They remain a No. 1 DST, but they could fall from the Top 5 if they keep losing talent.
News: The Ravens used the franchise tag on Pro Bowl LB Terrell Suggs for the second consecutive year, a transaction that costs the team $10.2 million against the 2009 salary cap. That's the one-year salary Suggs is guaranteed if he signs their offer sheet; he can still shop himself around to other clubs but would force the team that signs him to give Baltimore two first-round picks as compensation. A three-time Pro Bowl selection who led the team with eight sacks while recording a career-high 102 tackles last season, Suggs was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. Now, teammates Ray Lewis and Bart Scott will be free agents while Suggs deals with the tag. Lewis has been linked to a spot with the Cowboys while Scott has been linked to reuniting with former defensive coordinator Rex Ryan in New York with the Jets.
Analysis: Keen Fantasy owners must keep tabs on who stays in Baltimore and who leaves. If Lewis and Scott don't stick around, the linebacking corps there could struggle, especially against the run. It's already a strike against the Ravens DST that they lost Ryan to a head coaching job with the Jets. It's a positive that Suggs will stick around, but for those owners who play in leagues where yards against and points against count big, the Ravens DST might not be the gem it was in 2008. We'll keep you posted.
News: The Ravens promoted Greg Mattison to defensive coordinator Monday, a move designed to maintain a sense of continuity on a unit that excelled under the departed Rex Ryan. The 59-year-old Mattison was hired as Baltimore's linebackers coach last February. Although he has only one year of NFL experience, Mattison was defensive coordinator at Michigan, Notre Dame and Florida. Mattison inherits a fierce defense that ranked second in the NFL and helped the Ravens advance to the AFC championship game. Mattison worked extensively with standout linebackers Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs and Bart Scott, all of whom are free agents this offseason.
Analysis: Known for their pass-rush abilities and defensive touchdowns, the Ravens DST remains one of the top units in Fantasy. Expect them to be taken between Rounds 8 and 9 as a No. 1 DST in drafts this summer.
News: Baltimore's DST could not stop the Steelers from pulling out the AFC Championship game 23-14 on Sunday. The Ravens season ends one step away from the Super Bowl after allowing 275 total yards of offense to the Steelers. The Ravens DST forced just one turnover and it came on a lost fumble as Ben Roethlisberger was able to play an interception-free game. Baltimore did sack him four times with Terrell Suggs picking up two.
Analysis: The Ravens did not play their best defensive game on Sunday and are now going home with the Steelers headed to the Super Bowl against Arizona. That should not detract from the fact that the Ravens DST was consistently among the top five in football this season and will enter 2009 as a very high-end option.
News: A sprained right shoulder might keep Ravens LB Terrell Suggs out of the AFC championship game on Sunday at the Steelers. With his arm in a sling, Suggs spoke to the media about his ailing shoulder. Suggs hurt his shoulder while tackling Tennessee quarterback Kerry Collins in the second quarter of Baltimore's 13-10 upset last Saturday. He did not play in the second half and has not practiced this week, which means his streak of playing in 96 consecutive games over six seasons could be in serious jeopardy. "I'm doing whatever I can. I've never missed a game and I definitely don't want to start with the AFC Championship game," he said. "I'm rehabbing four or five times a day. Come Sunday, we'll see. ... This game is that important. It's so important that I would consider sitting out to win it."
Analysis: Suggs is an instrumental piece of a defense that ranked second in the NFL during the regular season. He led the Ravens with eight sacks, had a career-high 102 tackles and intercepted two passes, taking one back for a touchdown. Even if Suggs can play, there's no guarantee he can last beyond his initial encounter with someone in a black jersey. He couldn't describe the injury in specifics, but said "it could be major ligament damage." The Ravens DST remains a very appealing unit in Playoff Fantasy leagues and should be a top unit in 2009.
News: Baltimore and their rookie quarterback advanced to the AFC Championship game on Saturday night as they defeated top-seeded Tennessee 13-10. The Ravens DST bended plenty but did not break as they allowed 391 yards of offense to the Titans. Baltimore, unlike their opponents, were able to force three key turnovers. Kerry Collins was intercepted once by Samari Rolle and Alge Crumpler and LenDale White fumbled away the football. Terrell Suggs was able to sack Collins for the Ravens only sack.
Analysis: The Ravens may have allowed some yardage but they stopped the top-seeded Titans in their tracks. They are one of the top three Fantasy DSTs in football and will head into the AFC Championship against either the Steelers or Chargers and be must-start options against both. They head into next year as top options in drafts.
News: The Ravens DST had a field day against the Dolphins in their Wild Card game on Sunday in Miami, intercepting QB Chad Pennington four times and recovering a Patrick Cobbs fumble. They limited the Dolphins to only nine points on the day, even blocking an extra point. Pennington threw for 252 yards against the Ravens secondary but the rushing attack earned a measly 52 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens defense has been frightening this season and they showed why in their Wild Card game against the Dolphins. They forced the normally calm under pressure into trying to force passes and completely smothered the Dolphins' attempt to utilize the Wildcat. They are one of the top, if not the top defensive units in the game today and should be viewed as such in IDP playoff leagues and next season.
News: Baltimore fell behind 7-3 Week 17 against the Jaguars, but after making the proper adjustments in the second quarter it was clear sailing the rest of the way during a 27-7 victory. It was 24-7 at halftime, and Baltimore never let up against the stumbling Jaguars (5-11), who committed four turnovers (two interceptions) and were held scoreless over the final 45 minutes. The seven points were a season-low for Jacksonville. Baltimore allowed just 245 yards, including 127 through the air. The Ravens got just one sack in the win.
Analysis: The Ravens had another outstanding year defensively under coordinator Rex Ryan, who is considered a top head coaching candidate. If the Ravens lose Ryan in the offseason, it will be a big blow to a top Fantasy DST. However, Baltimore still might have enough talent on defense to survive a coaching change on defense. Consider the Ravens DST a top Fantasy unit heading into 2009. The Ravens DST is also a decent high-end Fantasy option for 2008 playoff leagues.
News: The Baltimore Ravens came into Texas Stadium on Saturday night and handed the Cowboys a loss in their final home game in the building, 33-24. The Ravens DST limited Dallas' offense to 327 yards and all but stopped Tony Romo until late in the game. Dallas committed two turnovers, both interceptions of Romo by, who else, Ed Reed. The Ravens also had two sacks in the game as Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs each had one half.
Analysis: The Baltimore defense was pretty stingy Week 16 despite allowing 17 4th quarter points to Dallas. Still, the Ravens DST has been a solid Fantasy option in 2008 and they remain a high-end Fantasy option heading into Week 17 against Jacksonville. In fact, they are a must-start in the final week of the season.
News:Santonio Holmes caught a 4-yard touchdown pass from Ben Roethlisberger with 43 seconds left, and the Steelers clinched their second consecutive division crown by beating the Baltimore Ravens 13-9 Week 15. The play was reviewed because it appeared Holmes' feet were in the end zone but the ball may have been in front of the goal line. The official explanation for a TD was that Holmes had both feet in the end zone with possession of the ball. The Steelers (11-3) trailed 9-6 before moving 92 yards in 13 plays to take their only lead and score the game's lone touchdown. Pittsburgh gained 311 total yards on the Ravens defense. Baltimore had three sacks and two fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Baltimore defense was pretty stingy Week 15 despite allowing the late touchdown, but that score likely cost many Fantasy owners a few points and some possibly the game. Still, the Ravens DST has been a solid Fantasy option in 2008 and they remain a high-end Fantasy option heading into Week 16 against the Cowboys.
News: In the Ravens' 24-10 win vs. the Redskins in Week 14, the DST continued its red-hot play with an Ed Reed touchdown coming off a fumble with two interceptions, by Reed, along with two sacks. Washington's ground game was held in check, forcing Jason Campbell to throw and not achieve many stats.
Analysis: The Ravens DST continues to be a fantastic must-start unit, and that will be the case when they host the Steelers in Week 15. Pittsburgh will struggle to run the ball and its offensive line gave up a bunch of sacks against the Cowboys in Week 14. Look for the Ravens DST to have another solid outing in its next game.
News: According to The Sports Xchange, when the Ravens (8-4) play host to the Washington Redskins (7-5) in Week 14, the focus will be stopping running back Clinton Portis. "He's probably one of the exceptional backs in the game right now," linebacker Ray Lewis said. "We have to do a good job of containing." Portis has been slowed by a neck injury, but the Ravens are expecting that he will play against the NFL's third-ranked run defense.
Analysis: Portis is the NFL's second-leading rusher, averaging 102 yards a game. However, the Ravens defense is allowing 80.2 yards rushing. If Portis isn't 100%, the slight edge goes to the Ravens. Whether or not Portis plays, start the Ravens DST in Week 14.
News: The Ravens DST held the Bengals to three points and 155 yards in a Week 13 victory in Cincinnati. They made four sacks and returned their one turnover, an interception, for a touchdown to complete the scoring in the 34-3 win.
Analysis: This matchup in Week 13 was a superb one for the Ravens, who are already an elite unit no matter who they play, and they lived up to expectations. The lack of turnovers is a little disappointing, but you can't have everything! In Week 14, Baltimore hosts Washington, and they remain a must-start No. 1 Fantasy DST in all formats.
News: The Ravens defense, one game after allowing 30 points to the Giants, resumed its domination Week 12 against the Eagles, allowing seven points on 206 yards. It recorded two sacks and four interceptions, one returned by Ed Reed for a touchdown. It also recorded a safety.
Analysis: The Ravens DST clearly got back on the right track Sunday and remains a unit worth starting even in shaky matchups. It has a great matchup Week 13 at Cincinnati, so keep it active for sure.
News: The Ravens DST had one sack, one interception and little else in a 30-10 loss at the Giants. Ray Lewis had the interception, and Jarrett Johnson had the sack. Yamon Figurs had one punt return for no yards and four kickoff returns for 102 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens DST should perform better in Week 12 against the Eagles. Continue to start them as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Facing Texans QB Sage Rosenfels for his first start with Matt Schaub sidelined knee injury, the Ravens defense had a field day Week 10 at Houston. It finished with four sacks, two interceptions and a safety, allowing 13 points on 355 yards. It also limited star rookie rusher Steven Slaton to seven yards on four carries.
Analysis: The Ravens DST had the kind of performance you've come to expect from them in Fantasy. They again look like one of the most dominant units in the game after taking a year off last year and should remain active despite the so-so matchup Week 11 at the Giants.
News: In the team's 37-27 win at Cleveland, the Ravens DST was good for a sack, a forced fumble and recovery and an interception by Terrell Suggs that was returned for a touchdown. Suggs' score iced the game and delivered a win to the Browns.
Analysis: The Ravens DST remains a solid option as they head to Houston to play the Texans in Week 10. Consider them startable in all leagues.
News: The Ravens' secondary is in trouble, and it's not coming at a good time. Starting cornerbacks Chris McAlister (knee) and Samari Rolle (neck) are doubtful for Week 9 at Cleveland while veteran corner Frank Walker (thigh) is questionable. If all three miss the game, the Ravens will be forced to start Fabian Washington and Corey Ivy at cornerback, news that will sit very well with the Browns' passing offense, which has improved over the last few games.
Analysis: The Ravens are still candidates to slow down the Browns' run game, and Cleveland's offense has been equally inept at times this season. Continue to count on the Ravens DST as a No. 1 unit in Week 9.
News: The Ravens allowed just 234 yards of total offense in Week 8 vs. Oakland. They held the Raiders to 10 points and sacked QB JaMarcus Russell three times, including once for a safety. They also intercepted one of his passes.
Analysis: The Ravens defense befuddled QB JaMarcus Russell all night and they completely took the running game away. The Ravens continue to be an elite Fantasy defense for their ability to record sacks, force turnovers and hold teams to low points and yards. They'll travel to Cleveland in Week 9 and they should be considered a solid start.
News: The Ravens DST held Miami to 13 points in a Week 7 win and also returned an interception for a touchdown. They did give up 359 yards, however, and only had one sack.
Analysis: Without their touchdown in Week 7 the Ravens DST would have had a very disappointing outing against the Dolphins, who aren't know for their offensive prowess. Still, Baltimore remains a must-start option in all formats heading into a very tasty Week 8 matchup vs. Oakland.
News: The Ravens DST looked bad against the Colts on Sunday in a 31-3 loss. The Ravens only had two sacks and did not recover a fumble. Yamon Figurs had two punt returns for 8 yards and three kickoff returns for 53.1 yards.
Analysis: Look for the Ravens to bounce back in Week 7 at Miami. It's a much better matchup for the Ravens defense. Consider them a No. 1 DST in that matchup.
News: Ravens LB Ray Lewis and S Ed Reed are both active and starting Sunday against the Colts. Both players were banged up coming into the game.
Analysis: It's safe to keep Lewis and Reed active for Week 6. Consider both good starts against the Colts.
News: Ravens CB Fabian Washington will miss Sunday's game against Indianapolis with a dislocated right shoulder, further thinning a secondary poised to face Peyton Manning. Washington was filling in for starter Samari Rolle, who is out at least a month following neck surgery last week. Frank Walker will start at cornerback, backed up by Corey Ivy. Walker's last start was in 2006 with the New York Giants.
Analysis: Walker and Washington have minimal Fantasy value at this time and should not be used in most leagues. The Ravens DST should still be fine even with the loss of these defensive backs.
News: While the Ravens defense did a nice job to hold the Titans to 13 points (a late touchdown sealed the loss), all the DST could muster up were a pair of interceptions, including one off a tipped ball.
Analysis: The Ravens DST remains a quality unit, but there are going to be more desirable options in Week 6 thanks to Baltimore playing at Indianapolis. Consider going other ways at DST before settling on the Ravens.
News: The Ravens lost to the hosting Steelers in Week 4, but they allowed 23 points on only 237 yards, recording three sacks and one interception. The 23 points were the most they had allowed all season.
Analysis: Despite the 23 points, the Ravens DST had a good enough day to convince us it's alive and well as a No. 1 Fantasy unit. It had a couple easy matchups against the Bengals and Browns earlier in the season, but it should still fare well Week 5 against the Titans. Keep it active.
News: One of the first phone calls Ravens coach John Harbaugh made a few days ago was to Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson, even if it wasn't for the reason Pittsburgh Steelers fans might suspect. Harbaugh was Philadelphia's secondary coach last year and special teams coach for nine seasons before being hired by Baltimore, and he talks to his former boss weekly. Did the topic of the Eagles' wildly successful blitzing schemes during their 15-6 win over Pittsburgh last week come up? Without a doubt. Did Harbaugh immediately dig out old Eagles game plans to mimic for the Ravens' game in Pittsburgh? Almost certainly not. That was last week and, as Harbaugh and his players know, that's very old news in the NFL. "Of course, they're going to go back and correct whatever there is to correct," Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis said of the Steelers. "So if you go try to emulate the same thing, then you can get beat doing the same thing. I just think, truly, that we need to come out to play to our identity -- whatever that is."
Analysis: So far, the Ravens (2-0) resemble the team that was 13-3 in 2006 more than the one that was 5-11 last season, mostly because their defense gave division opponents Cleveland and Cincinnati virtually nothing. In beating the Browns 28-10 last week, the Ravens had five sacks, an interception return TD and another pickoff that created a touchdown. No doubt that defense is causing some worry with the Steelers (2-1), who have scored only one touchdown and 16 points in two games since beating up on Houston 38-17 in their opener. Ben Roethlisberger hasn't had time to throw or run -- he was sacked eight times by Philadelphia -- and now he's without the man who makes the offense go in Pro Bowl running back Willie Parker (knee). Parker will be replaced by rookie Rashard Mendenhall, whose only 10 NFL carries came in that Houston game. Consider the Ravens DST a nice start Week 4.
News: Baltimore defeated the Browns in Week 3 by the score of 28-10. The Ravens DST played well, as expected, as they allowed just 169 total yards and forced three Browns turnovers. The most impressive turnover was a 32-yard interception return for a touchdown from -- who else? -- Ed Reed. The Ravens other two forced turnovers came on interceptions from Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle. Baltimore also recorded four sacks with Terrell Suggs picking up two of them.
Analysis: Just look at those names above. Reed, Rolle, McAlister, Suggs. This team is loaded on defense and remains one of the best defenses in the league. They are a high-end No. 1 option and should be starting almost every week. They go to Pittsburgh next week for a defensive battle and should still be starting.
News: Ravens NG Kelly Gregg will remain sidelined for at least two more weeks with cartilage problems in his surgically repaired left knee, coach John Harbaugh said Friday. Gregg underwent surgery in August, but wasn't able to play during the preseason or the season opener. "What it amounts to is he's got kind of a hole in his cartilage that rubs bone to bone, and because of that he's actually got a real sensitive spot on his bone," Harbaugh said. "When he unloads on a block, that's when he feels the pain. It's almost like you've got a scab on your bone, and he tears the scab off." Gregg will miss Sunday's game against Cleveland and next week's trip to Pittsburgh. Then, Gregg will be week to week. "We just have to take it as we go after that point," Harbaugh said. Justin Bannan will continue to start in Gregg's place. "We're going to miss Kelly," defensive tackle Haloti Ngata said.
Analysis: Keep Gregg reserved in all IDP leagues for now, and he has minimal Fantasy value when healthy. The Ravens DST is still worth starting in Week 3 against the Browns even without Gregg.
News: The Baltimore Ravens-Houston Texans game was rescheduled to Nov. 9 after Reliant Stadium was severely damaged by Hurricane Ike, meaning both teams will not play in Week 2. The new date also affects the Cincinnati Bengals' schedule. Houston was originally scheduled to play the Bengals on Nov. 9. Now, those teams will play on Oct. 26 and Cincinnati will take its bye week on Nov. 9, when the Texans now play the Ravens.
Analysis: It's all a little confusing, but basically Fantasy owners need to treat Week 2 as a bye week for the Texans and Ravens. So if you have any players or either defensive unit active, get them reserved immediately. The Texans will next play at Tennessee in Week 3.
News: The rookie head coach made all the right moves, and the first-year quarterback displayed remarkable footwork and poise in his initial NFL start. Most of all, though, the Baltimore Ravens received a typically solid performance from their defense in defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 17-10 Sunday. The Ravens (1-0) forced two turnovers and limited the Bengals (0-1) to 154 yards to make John Harbaugh a winner in his debut as an NFL coach. Cincinnati's Carson Palmer was 10-for-25 for 99 yards, and his interception ended the Bengals' deepest foray into Baltimore territory -- except for a 65-yard fumble return for a touchdown by Johnathan Joseph. The Ravens defense got sacks from Jarret Johnson and Justin Bannan, while Chris McAlister had an interception.
Analysis: Just when you thought the Ravens defense was ready to fall apart, they rallied around their rookie head coach and shutdown a top offensive team. Perhaps Fantasy owners shouldn't give up on the Ravens DST just yet. Consider them a viable Fantasy option heading into Week 2 against the Texans.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Ravens LB Terrell Suggs likely won't play the preseason finale after going 29 snaps Saturday in his first preseason game against the Rams. "I don't think I played too badly," Suggs said. "I'm still a little rusty ... but hopefully by Sept.7, all the rust will be gone."
Analysis: It appears Suggs is back after his holdout this offseason. Last season, he had a career-low five sacks but had a career-best 80 tackles. Keep an eye on what happens, but go into the season with Suggs as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option in IDP leagues worth a mid-round selection.
News: In their third preseason game, the Ravens DST didn't come up with anything more than an interception at St. Louis, facing the Rams without RB Steven Jackson. Baltimore has seven sacks, five interceptions and a defensive score through three preseason contests.
Analysis: The Ravens DST might be more popular than they deserve to be. With big names like Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Bart Scott, Ed Reed and Haloti Ngata, many owners give them more credit than they deserve. Keep in mind that this talented, but aging, unit plays with a suspect offense and could find themselves on the wrong end of a blowout a couple of times in 2008. Treat them like a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy DST worth a late-round pick. The presence of second-year return man Yamon Figurs does help things a little bit.
News: Even if he wasn't wearing a bright red jersey, Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed would be easy to spot on the practice field at training camp. Just follow the path of the football. "I hate Ed Reed because he's so good," said Derrick Mason, who played with Tennessee before joining the Ravens in 2005. "When I used to play against him, you just couldn't throw the ball in the middle of the field because he was always around it. Now that I'm playing with him, it's the same thing in practice." Reed is nursing a tender left shoulder, so his red No. 20 jersey cautioned his teammates to avoid full contact. Reed hasn't missed a game in the past two years and has missed only seven in six years - six of them in 2005 (ankle). But he expressed serious concern over the shoulder injury that kept him from practicing until last weekend. "It's day to day right now. I can't really explain it to this point because I'm still researching it myself," he said. "I figure it might be all right. If not, we'll deal with it then."
Analysis: Asked if he expected to be in the Baltimore secondary for the Sept. 7 opener against Cincinnati, Reed responded, "We'll see." Reed has proven to be a capable playmaker at safety. A four-time Pro Bowler and 2004 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, he has 34 interceptions in six years. He doesn't just pick 'em off and fall down either; the 5-foot-11, 200-pounder has returned three for touchdowns. He's also scored on a fumble return, has blocked four punts (returning three for scores) and last season found a new way into the end zone -- on a 63-yard punt return. At practice Monday, Reed was running full speed, knocking away passes and bumping receivers as if it was the middle of the regular season. That's just the way he plays, even in August and at less than 100 percent. Reed is a bit of an injury-risk Fantasy option, but since he has such a proven track record, no one would blame you for treating him as a No. 2 Fantasy DB. Reed is a big part of the Baltimore defense, but they still have enough talent to be considered a No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News:The Baltimore Sun reports that after the Ravens first preseason game, a 16-15 defeat of the Patriots, defensive coordinator Rex Ryan was giddy with how well the defense played. "I guess Fabian Washington was worth that fourth-rounder Ozzie [Newsome, general manager] gave up," Ryan said Thursday night. The Patriots were without some of their most important starters, but the Ravens showed a lot of depth, something they missed last year, especially in the secondary. The Ravens played well despite being without starting cornerbacks Samari Rolle, Chris McAlister, safety Ed Reed, outside linebacker Terrell Suggs and defensive tackles Kelly Gregg and Haloti Ngata.
Analysis: It was well documented that the Ravens suffered a down defensive season in 2007 after being so dominant for so long. Well, it looks like Baltimore's DST can once again be trusted to put up big Fantasy points. Expect them to be one of the first chosen on Draft day.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Ravens officials remain in constant contact with LB Terrell Suggs, but they are not certain when the team's franchise player will report. Suggs has missed camp to protest his franchise tag, which kept him from pursuing free agency.
Analysis: In five NFL seasons, Suggs has recorded 45 sacks and has earned two Pro Bowl selections (2004 and 2006). Last season, he had a career-low five sacks but had a career-best 80 tackles. Keep an eye on what happens, but go into the season with Suggs as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option in IDP leagues worth a mid-round selection.
News: Ravens LB Terrell Suggs was a no-show at the the team's first full-team meeting Wednesday night as veterans reported, and he's contemplating skipping the entire training camp, reports the Carroll County Times. As an unsigned franchise player, Suggs isn't technically a holdout. Under the NFL collective bargaining agreement, he's allowed to skip camp without financial penalties. Suggs hasn't signed his $8.472 million tender, a new hybrid defensive end-linebacker designation created during a compromise after he filed a grievance against the Ravens over what position he should be classified. The Ravens have seemed prepared for this possibility ever since they were unable to negotiate a contract extension prior to a league deadline last week. It's believed that the team made an extremely lucrative offer, but Suggs rejected it.
Analysis: In five NFL seasons, Suggs has recorded 45 sacks and has earned two Pro Bowl selections (2004 and 2006). Last season, he had a career-low five sacks but had a career-best 80 tackles. Keep an eye on what happens, but go into the season with Suggs as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option in IDP leagues worth a mid-round selection.
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, the Ravens added experience and depth by agreeing to terms with two free agents, DB Frank Walker and LB Nick Greisen. Walker, 26, was a dime back last season for the Green Bay Packers. He is expected to sign a two-year, $3.5 million deal. The Ravens struggled with inexperienced backups last season after Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle went down with injuries. Greisen, 28, was a backup for the Ravens last season. He will sign a three-year, $4 million deal, which includes a $1 million signing bonus. Greisen had 38 tackles on defense and 13 on special teams.
Analysis: Walker and Greisen have minimal Fantasy value in IDP leagues, but they add depth to a veteran defense in need of some help.
News: The Ravens designated two-time Pro Bowl outside linebacker Terrell Suggs as their franchise player Tuesday, a move that prevents him from becoming an unrestricted free agent at the end of the month. Suggs will be paid a one-year contract of $8.065 million, the average salary of the five highest paid linebackers in the NFL last season according to NFL Players Association figures. Under league rules, the Ravens can match any competing offer for Suggs or receive two first-round draft picks as compensation. "We will continue to negotiate with 'Sizzle' with the intention of signing him to a long-term contract," Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome said. "He is one of our best players, and our success with re-signing our best players is very good."
Analysis: The Ravens DST had a down year in 2007 after a tremendous year in 2006, partially because Suggs had a down season. They scored four touchdowns after having six in 2006. They had 17 interceptions after 28 last year. They had 33 sacks after 60 in 2006. And their forced fumbles (11) and fumble recoveries (six) were also down from last year, when they had 18 and 12, respectively. This unit should bounce back in 2008 because they still have solid players in Ray Lewis, Reed, Bart Scott, Chris McAlister and several others (including Suggs now that he's been franchised). The DST, D and ST units should all be high draft picks again in 2008.
News: The Carroll County Times is among those reporting that the Ravens are planning to place the franchise tag on LB Terrell Suggs if they can't re-sign him before the start of the free-agency period. As a result, the team will tender him an offer for a one-year guaranteed deal worth the average of the five highest-paid players at his position ($8.065 million according to the paper). Suggs may accept the offer at any time, or he can negotiate with other teams. If another team were to make him a contract offer, the Ravens would have the right to match the offer or receive two first-round picks as compensation from the other team. "If we do not have a long-term contract in place before the final day, we will franchise Suggs," GM Ozzie Newsome said. "At his position, we feel like he's one of the top two or three outside linebackers in the game. He does a very good job against the run and the pass."
Analysis: The Ravens DST had a down year in 2007 after a tremendous year in 2006, partially because Suggs had a down season. They scored four touchdowns after having six in 2006. They had 17 interceptions after 28 last year. They had 33 sacks after 60 in 2006. And their forced fumbles (11) and fumble recoveries (six) were also down from last year, when they had 18 and 12, respectively. This unit should bounce back in 2008 because they still have solid players in Ray Lewis, Reed, Bart Scott, Chris McAlister and several others (including Suggs hopefully). The DST, D and ST units should all be high draft picks again in 2008.
News: The Ravens DST had a down year in 2007 after a tremendous year in 2006. They scored four touchdowns after having six in 2006. They had 17 interceptions after 28 last year. They had 33 sacks after 60 in 2006. And their forced fumbles (11) and fumble recoveries (six) were also down from last year, when they had 18 and 12, respectively. The Ravens had three touchdowns on special teams with returns from Yamon Figurs (two) and Ed Reed.
Analysis: The Ravens DST should bounce back in 2008 because they still have solid players in Ray Lewis, Reed, Bart Scott, Chris McAlister and several others. The one concern is a new coaching staff for the Ravens, which could alter the scheme, but the DST, D and ST units should all be high draft picks again in 2008.
News: The Ravens defense closed the 2007 season with a so-so performance Week 17 against the Steelers, allowing 21 points on 264 yards. It recorded two interceptions and recovered a fumble. The Ravens special teams, meanwhile, had minus three yards.
Analysis: Injuries hit the Ravens DST hard in 2007, making it less than the dominant force Fantasy owners have come to know and love. Expect a rebound in 2008, meaning the unit will likely go among the top five again on Draft Day.
News: The Ravens had to play Week 16 against the Seahawks without their leader, Ray Lewis, who was sidelined with a hand injury and it showed. Baltimore allowed 27 points and 336 yards during a losing effort. They did force two interceptions, but only got two sacks.
Analysis: Let's face it, due to injuries the Ravens defense wasn't the same in 2007. A usually dominant unit, opposing teams had their way with the Ravens at times this season. Even if Lewis is back Week 17 against the Steelers, the Ravens are a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: The Baltimore Ravens, mired in a record eight-game losing streak, will limp into Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks without two key defenders. Coach Brian Billick said middle linebacker Ray Lewis was unlikely to play because of a dislocated finger on his left hand, and cornerback Samari Rolle was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury, ending his season. Lewis injured his finger during the second half of the Ravens' 22-16 overtime loss to the Miami Dolphins, an injury that split the knuckle and required stitches. Rolle had missed the past two games. Nick Greisen, who has played for the New York Giants and Jacksonville Jaguars, will start in Lewis' place. Rolle will be replaced by rookie cornerback Willie Gaston in an ailing defensive backfield. Corey Ivy is already filling in for starting cornerback Chris McAlister, who is on injured reserve with a strained knee.
Analysis: This is a defense waiting to be smoked, and Seattle's strong passing offense has the stuff to do it. Be very careful using the Ravens DST in Week 16 -- check and see if a better option exists on the waiver wire before finalizing your lineup.
News: Ravens LB Ray Lewis, who dislocated a finger on his left hand Sunday at Miami, should be able to play against the Seahawks, according to coach Brian Billick. The finger is "very uncomfortable," but the team's trainers "think they can do enough things to splint it up and take care of it."
Analysis: It's a good thing Lewis can play. Consider him a No. 1 LB in IDP leagues in Week 16 against the Seahawks and hope he can help the Ravens DST, which has struggled this year.
News: The Ravens DST allowed 288 yards and 22 points to Miami in Baltimore's 22-16 overtime loss to the Dolphins in Week 15. They did have five sacks, but failed to record a single turnover.
Analysis: The Ravens DST unit was made to look very ordinary in Week 15 by a very ordinary Miami offense. Things don't get any easier in Week 16 against the Seahawks, who will be back home and angry after losing to the Panthers on Sunday.
News: The Ravens put CB Chris McAlister on Injured Reserve Wednesday with a knee injury. He will miss the rest of the season. The Ravens filled his spot on the roster with CB Willie Gaston, who was on their practice squad. Gaston's spot on the practice squad was filled with ex-Broncos prospect CB Jeff Shoate.
Analysis: McAlister's absence will hurt the Ravens' pass defense and make them a little less attractive Fantasywise. However, they take on the hapless Dolphins in Week 15, making them a very solid DST option for the savvy Fantasy Playoff owner.
News: The Colts torched the Ravens for 44 points Week 14 at Baltimore, many of them resulting off turnovers. The Ravens defense allowed 334 yards. Their special teams gained 196 yards, including 94 on a touchdown return by Yamon Figurs in the second quarter.
Analysis: The return touchdown somewhat salvaged an otherwise miserable performance for the Ravens DST, which didn't record a single sack or turnover. Hopefully, you had the good sense to bench it for this matchup and will have the same good sense to start it for Week 15 at Miami.
News: The Ravens defense performed remarkably well against the Patriots pace-setting offense in Week 13, nearly condemning the unbeatens to defeat. In the end, the Ravens allowed 27 points on 326 yards. They had three sacks and an interception. The also gained 139 yards on special teams.
Analysis: Good news! If you accidently started the Ravens DST against the mighty Patriots, you didn't do all that poorly. The Ravens defense entered Monday's game ranked fourth in the league, and it deserves to start more often than not in Fantasy. It has another tough matchup Week 14 against the Colts, though. You might want to think about reserving it.
News: The Ravens DST takes on the top-rated Patriots offense in Baltimore in Week 13. The Patriots are scoring over 40 ppg and they are tops in passing offense, as well as seventh in the rushing offense.
Analysis: The Ravens DST ranks fourth in total defense, but despite their success, we don't recommend starting them against QB Tom Brady and Co. outside of very large leagues.
News: The Ravens defense had to play without top cornerback Chris McAlister (knee) Week 12 against the Chargers, but that was only the beginning of their troubles. The Ravens were shredded for 34 points and 332 yards in a losing effort. They did not record a sack or force a turnover.
Analysis: The Ravens have struggled mightly on defense this season and we are just not used to seeing it. They are a middle of the road defense and they will have their hands full Week 13 against the Patriots. Consider reserving the Ravens DST.
News: The Chargers' 21st-ranked offense hosts the Ravens DST offense on Sunday in Week 12.
Analysis: The Ravens DST is ranked 14th in total defense this season. Despite facing LaDainian Tomlinson, Antonio Gates and Philip Rivers, we recommend starting them in 12-team leagues.
News: The Ravens DST scored a touchdown Sunday against Cleveland when LB Ray Lewis returned an interception for a score. Baltimore also added a fumble recovery and two sacks. Cody Ross had two punt returns for 6 yards and one kickoff return for 18 yards. Yamon Figurs had five kickoff returns for 108 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens DST is a No. 1 option and should be started in Week 12 at San Diego.
News: The Ravens DST will host the Cleveland Browns Sunday in Week 11. The Browns are ranked fourth in total offense, based on the strength of their 10th-ranked passing game.
Analysis: The Ravens DST ranks fifth in total defense, and that's mostly because they own the second-best rushing defense in the league. Keep them active against the Browns this week. It's a tough passing matchup, and the Browns did score 27 points on them in Week 4, but it's doubtful you have better options in Fantasy this week.
News: The Ravens DST had two sacks and no turnovers Sunday against the Bengals. The unit was hurt being without starting DBs Samari Rolle and Chris McAlister. Cody Ross had seven kickoff returns for a 16.0-yard average and two punt returns for a 13.5-yard average.
Analysis: The Ravens DST will look to bounce back in Week 11 against Cleveland. Consider them a No. 1 option.
News: The Ravens defense got a raw deal from the Ravens offense Week 9 at Pittsburgh. The defense surrendered only 291 yards but was on the hook for 38 points thanks to the offense's four turnovers. The Ravens did manage to pick up three sacks and an interception. Their special teams gained 168 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens DST entered the game second in the league in total defense, and based on the yardage it allowed, that ranking probably won't drop much, if at all. Those 38 points hurt Fantasy owners, of course, but consider them a fluke caused by all the turnovers. The Ravens DST faces a solid Bengals offense in Week 10, but we recommend starting it anyway.
News: The Ravens DST is ranked second in total defense, with a ninth-ranked pass defense and a second-ranked rush defense. They will travel to Pittsburgh to face the Steelers' fourth-ranked offensive squad.
Analysis: The Ravens DST still ranks among the top six in all Fantasy formats for this matchup, so get them active.
News: Over the past three weeks, the Ravens DST ranks third in basic Fantasy scoring. That unit has seven interceptions to lead the league, with nine sacks and only 29 points allowed. They are on a bye in Week 8.
Analysis: Don't cut this defense for a one-week bye replacement. They are a must-start unit each week.
News: The Ravens defense did a nice job limiting the Bills offense to just 242 total yards Week 7, but the Bills managed to sneak into Baltimore territory for five scoring drives that included four field goals. Baltimore lost the game 19-14. The Ravens came away with a interception by Samari Rolle and he ran it back for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. However, after review the refs ruled that Rolle was down by contact and the touchdown came off the scoreboard. Baltimore also came away with two sacks of QB Trent Edwards.
Analysis: The Ravens did not have a bad day defensively against the Bills, and it would have really helped Fantasy DST owners if the touchdown stood. Tough luck. Don't give up on the Ravens DST. Baltimore still has an elite defense. The Ravens are on a bye in Week 8 and return to action Week 9 against the Steelers.
News: The Ravens DST travels to play the Bills in Buffalo on Sunday. The Bills have had injury problems all season, and their offense ranks 31st in the NFL (including 31st in the passing game and 20th on the ground).
Analysis: The Ravens are fourth in total defense and they should be able to add to their 13 sacks total. We rank this as the best DST matchup of the week -- so keep the Ravens active.
News: The Baltimore Ravens got their swagger back, bullying Gus Frerotte and the winless St. Louis Rams into submission during a rare blowout. The Ravens forced Frerotte into six turnovers, and Baltimore got enough production from its depleted offense for a 22-3 victory Sunday. The Ravens, as usual, won on the strength of their defense. After limiting San Francisco to a touchdown in an ugly 9-7 win last week, Baltimore topped that performance by holding the Rams to a field goal. Playing a second straight week in place of an injured Marc Bulger, Frerotte threw a career-high five interceptions and lost a fumble.
Analysis: St. Louis had two turnovers, four first downs and 83 yards of offense during a dreadful first half. Brian Leonard, playing for the injured Steven Jackson, had 11 yards rushing on eight attempts, and Frerotte was sacked three times and threw two interceptions. The Ravens got interceptions from Dwan Edwards, Chris McAlister, Ed Reed, Corey Ivy and Derrick Martin. The five INTs were a team record. The Rams managed just 264 yards and the Ravens walked away with four sacks of Frerotte. This is the Ravens defense we are accustomed to seeing and why they continue to be a must-start Fantasy DST. The Ravens play the Bills in Week 7. Rookie QB John Edwards better watch out.
News: Baltimore's vaunted defense hosts the troubled Rams offense Sunday. The Rams rank 27th in total offense, with 13 sacks allowed and seven interceptions.
Analysis: With Marc Bulger, Steven Jackson and Torry Holt (knee) injured, this should be a nice week for the Ravens DST. That unit ranks fourth in total defense and they have nine sacks, but only four interceptions. Those numbers should climb this week, so start this DST in all formats.
News: The Baltimore Ravens DST held San Francisco to 163 net yards while tallying three sacks and an interception in a 9-7 Week 5 victory.
Analysis: The Niners' weak offense made the Ravens DST look almost like the Baltimore of old in Week 5 and they should have another fun time in Week 6 when they host the awful Rams. Start 'em if you got 'em.
News: The Ravens DST will face the 32nd-ranked offense in the NFL in Week 5, when San Francisco hosts them. The Niners are last in passing offense and 20th in rushing, but with Alex Smith (shoulder) out this week, they should be in even more trouble.
Analysis: The Ravens DST is an excellent starting unit most weeks, ranking 10th overall in defense, and this week is no exception. Start them in all formats and expect good production.
News: The Baltimore Ravens DST was held in check by the Cleveland Browns in Week 4 as they only tallied one interception and were held without a sack or a fumble recovery ina 27-13 loss.
Analysis: The Ravens DST was supposed to have a field day against the Browns in Week 4, but they barely registered any Fantasy points. Still, they remain one of the elite units in the league and should have a nice rebound outing against the 49ers.
News: In two games last year against the Browns, the Ravens allowed 14 and 17 points. Three of the four touchdowns the Browns scored came through the air, and Derek Anderson tossed two of those. Anderson is now the Browns' starter and will come after Baltimore, the team that drafted him, in Week 4. The Ravens defense has allowed five passing touchdowns and zero rushing scores through three games. They play at Cleveland, who rank ninth in the NFL offensively with 362.3 yards a game but has been unable to produce consistent results.
Analysis: Despite the Ravens' less-than-stellar secondary, they should still pin down the Browns to at most 21 points with some takeaways. Start the Ravens DST in Week 4 Fantasy play.
News: The Ravens DST had a touchdown on a 75-yard punt return against Arizona by Yamon Figurs. The DST also added one sack and a fumble recovery. Figurs also added two kickoff returns for 64 yards and finished with two punt returns for a 37.5-yard average.
Analysis: The Ravens DST is a No. 1 option and should be started in Week 4 against the Browns.
News: Ravens defensive end Trevor Pryce will miss at least three weeks after undergoing surgery on his broken left wrist. Pryce was hurt in the third quarter of the Ravens' 20-13 win over the New York Jets on Sunday. The four-time Pro Bowl lineman set career highs last year with 73 tackles and 13 sacks, and also led Baltimore with 73 quarterback hits. "It could be anywhere from three to four weeks, depending upon the rehab, how he feels when it's casted up, playing with the club (on his arm)," coach Brian Billick said Monday.
Analysis: Pryce is a key cog in the Ravens defense, although he's not as significant as Ray Lewis, Ed Reed or Terrell Suggs. The Ravens DST remains a top-flight Fantasy DST that should start vs. Arizona in all Fantasy leagues in Week 3.
News: The Ravens gave up 304 yards to the Jets, but most of that yardage came in the fourth quarter when the Jets got desperate. They did sack Kellen Clemens four times and intercept him twice, as well as recover a fumble.
Analysis: The Ravens DST remains one of the top three units in the NFL and should have a nice outing in Week 3 when they host the Cardinals. As in most weeks, start 'em if you got 'em.
News: The Ravens defense didn't contribute anything spectacular at the Bengals in Week 1, Ed Reed's punt return for a touchdown not withstanding. It recorded one sack and recovered three fumbles, holding the Bengals to 236 yards and 27 points.
Analysis: That's still pretty good. Continue to start the Ravens defense. It's the best in the league, after all. You surely don't want to bench it Week 2 at the Browns. It might win your game single-handedly.
News: The Ravens totaled five sacks vs. the Giants in preseason play, putting constant pressure on both Eli Manning and Jared Lorenzen when they were in the game. They also forced an Eli Manning fumble and held the G-Men to one touchdown the entire game.
Analysis: Despite losing Adalius Thomas this offseason, the Ravens defense remains one of the best in the league. Consider them with a middle- to late-round pick in standard Fantasy drafts in 2007.
News: Baltimore, which ranked No. 1 in the NFL in defense last season, had four sacks in the first half of Monday's preseason game and limited the Eagles to 103 yards over the first 30 minutes. LBs Dan Cody (knee) and Mike Smith (undisclosed) did not play and remain on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Analysis: Despite losing Adalius Thomas this offseason, the Ravens defense remains one of the best in the league. Consider them with a middle- to late-round pick in standard Fantasy drafts in 2007.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that Ravens DT Kelly Gregg signed a four-year extension that keeps him with the club through 2011. Gregg is a nose tackle who anchors the defensive line in an attempt to slow down the opposing rushing game.
Analysis: Despite losing Adalius Thomas this offseason, the Ravens defense remains one of the best in the league. Consider them with a middle- to late-round pick in standard Fantasy drafts in 2007. Gregg doesn't put up enough stats to warrant use in IDP leagues.
News: The Baltimore Ravens re-signed linebacker Jarret Johnson to a three-year, $13 million deal Saturday, securing a replacement for All-Pro Adalius Thomas. Johnson, 25, was drafted in the fourth round out of Alabama by Baltimore in 2003 and will join the NFL's top-ranked defense as its only new starter after Thomas signed with New England. The 6-foot-3, 270-pound Johnson has 144 tackles, three sacks and one interception in four seasons while lining up at defensive end, along with inside and outside linebacker. "It just goes to show how confident they are in you," Johnson said. "You always know they like you, but when they come out and show it to you, it's a nice compliment."
Analysis: Despite losing Adalius Thomas, the Ravens defense remains one of the best in the league. Consider them with a middle- to late-round pick in standard Fantasy drafts in 2007.
News: The Baltimore Ravens released a statement confirming that they will not use their franchise tag on any of their free agents, including LB Adalius Thomas, meaning that he will become a free agent on March 2. The Ravens don't have the salary cap room to keep Thomas, who would earn $7.2 million next year if he were franchised. The Packers, 49ers and Jets are considered potential suitors for Thomas.
Analysis: The Ravens defense will lose a key cog in their unit with Thomas walking out the door, but they will still have Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Haloti Ngata, Chris McAlister and Ed Reed. That's pretty good. Continue to view the Ravens DST as a top-end DST in standard Fantasy play, worth a middle-round pick in '07 drafts.
News: Ravens DB Gerome Sapp (back) and LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) are listed as probable for Divisional Playoff game vs. Indianapolis.
Analysis: Both players should be able to go on Sunday against the Colts and the Ravens DST is one of the best Fantasy options in postseason leagues.
News: The Ravens defense held the Buffalo Bills to seven points and 253 yards in a Week 17 win. The Ravens recovered a fumble, as well as had two interceptions -- one by Samari Rolle and one by Chris McAlister, who took it 31 yards for a touchdown. LB Ray Lewis, LB Terrell Suggs and DL Trevor Pryce each had a sack.
Analysis: The Ravens were one of the best defensive units all season and will undoubtedly be one of the first defenses drafted in Fantasy leagues in 2007. All of the Ravens defensive starters are popular picks in IDP leagues and will be hot ticket items once again in 2007.
News: On Wednesday, the Ravens listed LBs Bart Scott (ankle) and Adalius Thomas (ankle) on the injury report as questionable. Neither one practiced in preparation for Week 17 vs. Buffalo.
Analysis: The Ravens defense is still dangerous without these guys, but they are admittedly potent when they play. Monitor their status, but expect the Ravens defense to be the best there is for Week 17 Fantasy play.
News: The Ravens DST held the Steelers to seven points with two interceptions, a fumble recovery and five sacks. DB Ed Reed had two tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery. DB Corey Ivy had four tackles and a sack. DB Dawan Landry had two tackles, a sack and an interception. LB Ray Lewis had four tackles and a half-sack. DL Haloti Ngata had six tackles and a sack. DL Terrell Suggs had three tackles and a half-sack. DL Adalius Thomas had five tackles and a half-sack. DL Kelly Gregg had three tackles and a half-sack.
Analysis: Consider the Ravens a No. 1 option for Week 17 against Buffalo and use all regular IDP players.
News: The Ravens defense continued their dominance over the league in Week 15 by shutting down the Browns. They did give up 17 points, but only allowed 236 yards. Also, the Ravens came up with six sacks (Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Trevor Pryce 2, Bart Scott, Kelly Gregg 1/2 and Adalius Thomas 1/2) and two interceptions (Chris McAlister and Dawan Landry).
Analysis: The Ravens are one of the top Fantasy DST options and should be a must-start every week. They play the Steelers in Week 16. Also, all of the Ravens individual defensive stars in Week 15 are solid options in IDP leagues. Feel free to use them Week 16.
News: The Ravens defense played a big role in their Week 14 win over the Chiefs. They gave up only 276 yards and 10 points. They had two interceptions (both by Ed Reed), one fumble recovery and five sacks (Terrell Suggs, Bart Scott, Trevor Pryce, Ray Lewis and Adalius Thomas).
Analysis: The Ravens stars on defense shined in a Week 14 win over the Chiefs. All the above mentioned defensive players are solid in options in IDP leagues and should be used Week 15 against the Browns. Also, consider the Ravens DST a must-start Fantasy option since there is a good chance they will face inexperienced Browns QB Derek Anderson.
News: WR Mark Clayton, not DB Corey Ivy, will return punts for the Ravens on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. Clayton and Ross participated in returns to offset the loss of specialist B.J. Sams, who will miss the rest of the season after fracturing his right ankle in Cincinnati.
Analysis: Consider the Ravens ST a solid option against Kansas City in Week 14 despite losing Sams. As a WR, consider Clayton a No. 3 option.
News: The Baltimore defense allowed 13 points and 294 total net yards in Week 13 at Cincinnati. They had two sacks, but did not record any interceptions or fumble recoveries in the loss.
Analysis: The Ravens will have their hands full in Week 14 trying to stop QB Trent Green, RB Larry Johnson and the Chiefs at Arrowhead. At least they'll have a few extra days to look at film and create a game plan.
News: The Ravens defense scored on a fumble return, picked up two interceptions, two forced fumbles and nine sacks vs. Pittsburgh in Week 12.
Analysis: This was an awesome effort considering the expectations they had going into the game. Expect them to be useful at Cincinnati in Week 13, but they will give up some points to that offense.
News: Ravens LB Ray Lewis (back) is active and will start vs. Pittsburgh in Week 12.
Analysis: Lewis will help the Ravens defense immensely. Use Lewis in IDP leagues and the Ravens defense in all other formats.
News: Ravens coach Brian Billick said Monday that he expects LB Ray Lewis (back) to be ready to play vs. Pittsburgh in Week 12. "He seems to be moving around very, very well, and the things that they have done to alleviate that pressure, he's just moving a lot better," Billick said. "We'll find out on Wednesday, but right now, I'm fairly optimistic."
Analysis: Monitor Lewis' status throughout the week, but it's looking good for him. The Ravens defense remains a No. 1 Fantasy unit for Week 12 play.
News: The Ravens allowed just 10 points and 186 yards of net offense in Week 11 vs. Atlanta. They picked up five sacks of Falcons QB Michael Vick.
Analysis: The Ravens continue to be one of the top Fantasy units in Fantasy football. Consider them a must-start in all formats for Week 12 vs. Pittsburgh.
News: The Ravens officially ruled out LB Ray Lewis for Sunday's game against the Falcons with a swollen back. Lewis underwent a minor surgical procedure to have a pocket of blood drained from his back earlier this week. The seven-time All-Pro will miss his second consecutive game. The Ravens are preparing versatile outside linebacker/defensive end Jarret Johnson to start at inside linebacker with former practice squad member Dennis Haley filling in on obvious passing downs. Starting inside linebacker Bart Scott will move over to play Lewis' spot, with Johnson occupying Scott's normal position. Lewis should sit in all Fantasy leagues in Week 11.
Analysis: The Ravens defense is still startable against Atlanta, but be careful as they are not as potent with Ray Lewis out of the lineup.
News: Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker Ray Lewis underwent a minor surgical procedure Thursday to have a pocket of blood drained from his swollen back, and is unlikely to play in Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons. However, the seven-time All-Pro wasn't immediately ruled out and is expected to remain listed as questionable on the injury report. Lewis severely bruised his back during a Nov. 5 game against Cincinnati when he collided with teammate Ed Reed's knee. Team officials were hopeful Thursday the outpatient surgery will allow Lewis to return soon, but they weren't optimistic about him playing against Atlanta. "I don't know how much of a difference it (the surgical procedure) will make for this week, but it's my understanding that it will make a huge difference for him and we'll see how he is at the end of the week," Ravens coach Brian Billick said. "He's made real progress, I think." Meanwhile, the Ravens (7-2) are preparing versatile outside linebacker/defensive end Jarret Johnson (6-foot-3, 270 pounds) to start at inside linebacker with former practice squad member Dennis Haley filling in on obvious passing downs. Starting inside linebacker Bart Scott will move over to play Lewis' spot, with Johnson occupying Scott's normal position.
Analysis: Keep Lewis reserved in all IDP leagues, and expect the Ravens DST to struggle without their best player.
News: With no timetable on Ray Lewis' return, the Ravens are prepared to go with former practice squad player Dennis Haley as the team's starting middle LB. In his news conference Monday, coach Brian Billick said in the Baltimore Sun the Ravens are unsure when Lewis will be able to come back from a badly bruised back, although they have not ruled him out Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons. Lewis, who has not practiced since accidentally getting hit by teammate Ed Reed on Nov. 5, missed a game for the first time this season on Sunday. "They've got to break that pool of blood that's moving around his back ... in whatever way they can," Billick said. "As I understand it, once that's released, he should be fine. Until then, it's very stiff and sore. We'll have to see Wednesday how far along it's come." A team official described Lewis' injury as a deep bruise and not related to a blood clot.
Analysis: With Lewis inactive, the Ravens' depth at linebacker took a hit in Sunday's 27-26 win over the Tennessee Titans. His replacement, Mike Smith, lasted five plays, leaving the game after partially dislocating his shoulder. Smith could miss multiple games. With Lewis and Smith out, Haley tied for second on the Ravens in tackles with nine and also knocked down two passes. It was an admirable performance by Haley, who had spent nearly all of the season on the practice squad. The Ravens DST still should be started in Week 11 against Atlanta, but keep an eye on Lewis' status before using him in IDP leagues. Smith and Haley are not recommended starters.
News: The Tennessee Titans scored an unexpected 26 points against the Ravens defense in Week 10. The Ravens also yielded 367 yards. The Ravens did manage to get two sacks and one interception. DB Dawan Landry and LB Adalius Thomas had the sacks for the Ravens. Ed Reed had the team's interception.
Analysis: The Ravens were playing without LB Ray Lewis and it appeared to effect the defense's chemistry. Lewis should be back in Week 11 against the Falcons and the Ravens DST remain a strong Fantasy option. Reed and Thomas are must-start guys in IDP leagues, whereas the rookie Landry has been a pleasent surprise this season and could be used as a low-end Fantasy DB.
News: Ravens LB Ray Lewis will miss his first game on Sunday against the Tennessee Titans with a back injury. He is among the team's inactives. The All-Pro linebacker didn't practice this week but had predicted he would be able to start. Lewis, the Ravens' leading tackler with 97 tackles, is replaced in the lineup by Mike Smith, a second-year pro out of Texas Tech drafted in the seventh round last year.
Analysis: Lewis suffered a contusion to the spinal cord during free safety Ed Reed's fumble return in the fourth quarter that eventually was overturned on replay against Cincinnati in Week 9. Lewis spent a couple of minutes on the turf, but returned to the game on the next play. The Ravens are hoping this injury doesn't carry over into following weeks and Lewis will be sorely needed in Week 11 as the Ravens host the Falcons and Michael Vick. Make sure to take Lewis out of your IDP lineup. The Ravens DST is still a solid play against the Titans in Week 10 even without Lewis.
News: The Ravens' most notable injury concern was LB Ray Lewis, who suffered a contusion to the spinal cord during free safety Ed Reed's fumble return in the fourth quarter that eventually was overturned on replay against Cincinnati. Lewis, who spent a couple of minutes on the turf but returned to the game on the next play, walked slowly and gingerly in the locker room. But he said he expected to play in Week 10 against the Tennessee Titans. Reed bruised his leg on the same return, but he continued to play. Reed said he will be ready for Tennessee.
Analysis: The Ravens DST needs Lewis and Reed healthy, and it appears both will play against Tennessee. Consider the Ravens a must-start and use Reed and Lewis in IDP leagues.
News: The Ravens allowed 275 yards of offense and 20 points in Week 9 vs. Cincinnati. They sacked QB Carson Palmer twice and forced three turnovers, returning one for a score.
Analysis: The Ravens remain one of the better Fantasy units in the league and they have the ability to find the end zone each week with players like Ed Reed in the mix. Consider them a must-start every week, including Week 10 against at Tennessee.
News: Sacks by DL Trevor Pryce and LB Adalius Thomas, and interceptions from DB Dawan Landry (two), LB Ray Lewis and DB Ronnie Prude against New Orleans in Week 8 helped the Ravens get a sack and interception in every game this season, breaking the franchise's all-time record.
Analysis: Consider the Ravens DST a must-start every week no matter the opponent.
News: The Ravens defense had a field day at New Orleans in Week 8, intercepting a pair of Drew Brees passes for touchdowns, adding two sacks and four total interceptions with a fumble recovery. They held Deuce McAllister to 19 total yards and Reggie Bush to 21 total yards.
Analysis: The Ravens defense is so good that they must start every week for Fantasy owners, including when they face off vs. Cincinnati in Week 9.
News: The Baltimore defense knows it has its hands full with the Saints in Week 8. Stopping Deuce McAllister is the least of their worries -- they also must account for Reggie Bush, Drew Brees, Joe Horn and Marques Colston. The Saints are averaging 24.2 points per game and rank seventh in total offense through six games.
Analysis: Start the Ravens defense in Week 8, and every week, on reputation alone. Expect some turnovers, but don't expect a shutout.
News: The Baltimore DST had two interceptions against Carolina QB Jake Delhomme and also added one sack and a fumble recovery. LB Ray Lewis recovered the fumble and also had nine tackles. LB Adalius Thomas had seven tackles and a sack. DB Chris McAlister had six tackles and an interception. DB Dawan Landry had three tackles and an interception.
Analysis: The Ravens DST had a rough game against Carolina but will get back on track in Week 8 against New Orleans.
News: The Baltimore DST allowed 13 points and 222 total net yards in Week 5 at Denver, as they held their end of the bargain up. However, the Ravens lost 13-3 in the road game for their first loss.
Analysis: The Ravens also had one sack, one interception and one fumble recovery. The Ravens DST remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for Week 6 against Carolina.
News: The Ravens defense had a safety, a sack, a forced fumble and an interception vs. San Diego in Week 4. Baltimore held the Chargers to just 13 points and 145 passing yards in the game.
Analysis: Baltimore's defense remains one of the best in the NFL. Use them when they play at Denver in Week 5.
News: The Ravens have FS Ed Reed and DE Terrell Suggs active for Week 4 vs. San Diego.
Analysis: The Ravens defense should start against Philip Rivers and the Chargers for Week 4 Fantasy play.
News: The Ravens defense will have LB Bart Scott (foot) on their side when they play vs. San Diego in Week 4. However, the team is still listing FS Ed Reed and DT Haloti Ngata as questionable for the game, and neither player practiced on Friday.
Analysis: The Ravens DST remains a must-start unit whether Reed and Ngata play or not. It will be a challenge facing the Chargers in Week 4, but they should force a couple of turnovers with inexperienced QB Philip Rivers under center.
News: The Baltimore defense had a big day in Week 3 at Cleveland, allowing 288 total net yards and 14 points. More importantly, the Ravens wrapped up QB Charlie Frye for seven sacks and had an interception and fumble recovery. DE Terrell Suggs (hamstring) was hurt in the game, but is OK and doesn't expect to miss next week.
Analysis: The Ravens allowed their first two offensive touchdowns of the season in the second quarter, but they settled down and stepped up when it mattered most. S Chris McAlister picked off Frye in the end zone when the Browns could have put the game away in the closing moments of the fourth quarter, giving his team a chance. The Ravens host RB LaDainian Tomlinson and the Chargers in Week 4 in their biggest test to date.
News: The Ravens are showing signs of having their most dominant defense since 2000. But coach Brian Billick isn't ready to make such comparisons. "I can understand people doing that, but we're not going to do it," Billick said of the defense, which is ranked first in the NFL in yards allowed (152 per game) and takeaways (nine). "This is a different group of people, a different scheme, a different idea. You always pull back on your heritage a little bit, but there's no upside for us drawing too much into that, other than being very proud of the group that did what they did."
Analysis: The Ravens have a great matchup against Cleveland this week. They are a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
9/18/2006
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Ravens DST dominant again
News: The Ravens DST gave up only six points against the Raiders and had a safety, three interceptions, a fumble recovery and six sacks.
Analysis: Baltimore's DST is a must-start in all leagues and should do well against Cleveland in Week 3. Several individual players did well, including DL Adalius Thomas (seven tackles, two sacks and an interception), LB Ray Lewis (seven tackles and an interception), DL Terrell Suggs (seven tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble) and LB Bart Scott (five tackles and a sack).
9/11/2006
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The Ravens defense is back
News: The Ravens defense is looking forward to a good year. This defense seems on a mission after last season when it had the fewest forced turnovers (15 forced fumbles, 11 interceptions) since Brian Billick became coach at the start of the 1999 season. "We were embarrassed by the lack of take-aways we had last year," Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan told The Baltimore Sun. "We expect this football team to go a long way. I know it's the first game, but it worked out well." The Ravens allowed only 142 total yards in Sunday's shutout at Tampa Bay. They allowed only 26 yards rushing on the day and they sacked Chris Simms three times. The Ravens also picked Simms off three times, with one being returned for a touchdown.
Analysis: Baltimore faces Oakland in Week 2 and the Ravens DST should be started in all formats.
9/10/2006
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Baltimore DST does little
News: The Ravens DST allowed only 142 total yards in Sunday's shutout at Tampa Bay. They allowed only 26 yards rushing on the day and they sacked Chris Simms three times. The Ravens also picked Simms off three times, with one being returned for a touchdown.
Analysis: Baltimore DST gets to face Oakland in Week 2 at Baltimore. Start them in most formats.
9/10/2006
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Baltimore DST shutout Bucs
News: The Ravens DST allowed only 142 total yards in Sunday's shutout at Tampa Bay. They allowed only 26 yards rushing on the day and they sacked Chris Simms three times. The Ravens also picked Simms off three times, with one being returned for a touchdown.
Analysis: Baltimore DST gets to face Aaron Brooks and the Raiders' suspect offense in Week 2 in Baltimore. Start them in all formats obviously.
9/8/2006
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McAlister will play vs. Bucs
News: Ravens cornerback Chris McAlister said he is healthy enough to play for Sunday's opener in Tampa Bay. McAlister sat out the preseason finale for precautionary reasons because of a sore right thigh but practiced this week. "I always feel great," McAlister said.
Analysis: The Ravens DST should do well in a low-scoring matchup with the Bucs.
9/7/2006
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Cadillac loses two linemen
News: The Buccaneers will be without two starting guards -- rookie Davin Joseph and Dan Buenning -- on Sunday when they start the season Week 1 vs. Baltimore. Jeb Terry and Sean Mahan will replace them.
Analysis: Cadillac Williams could have a harder time running between the tackles with two of his big men missing, especially since the Ravens have some big dudes on their defensive line. Cadillac should still start for Fantasy owners, but he might not deliver a solid outing. The Ravens defense becomes a little bit more appealing for Fantasy owners with the news.
8/15/2006
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DE Jarret Johnson looking good
News: The Ravens' official website reports that DE Jarret Johnson has had a great training camp so far.
Analysis: Especially since he has been playing the hybrid defensive end/linebacker position. He got his hands on two passes in Monday's practice session. "It's a learning experience, because (covering receivers is) something new," said Johnson. "But I've been working on it since minicamp, so it's coming along." Once the better units fly off the board, then the Ravens should be taken with a late-round choice. They are still a top-12 Fantasy DST.
8/7/2006
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Ngata sprains knee in scrimmage
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Ravens rookie DT Haloti Ngata sprained the MCL in his left knee during a scrimmage with the Redskins on Aug. 5. However, Ngata is not concerned about the severity of his injuries. "It feels good," Ngata said. "It's just a minor sprain. I'll be back in a couple of days." From the same scrimmage, LB Dan Cody (sprained ankle) and cornerback David Pittman (strained hamstring) did not play.
Analysis: Baltimore will still carry the reputation of being a top-notch Fantasy DST unit, but owners should not consider them as the best one out there. Once the better units fly off the board, then the Ravens should be taken with a late-round choice. They are still a top-12 Fantasy DST.
7/26/2006
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Ray Lewis healthy, ready to go
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that LB Ray Lewis (hamstring) is healed and ready to take part in practice when training camp starts. Lewis tore his hamstring at Chicago in Week 7 last season. "I've checked, double-checked and triple-checked and asked as many times as I could: Is there anybody aware of any reason why Ray would not be ready to go?" head coach Brian Billick said. "Ray seems ready to go."
Analysis: With the Ravens moving back to a 4-3 scheme and the team addressing issues along the defensive line, it appears that Lewis will only have to remain healthy in order to play at a high level in 2006. Baltimore will still carry the reputation of being a top-notch Fantasy DST unit, but owners should not consider them as the best one out there. Once the better units fly off the board, then the Ravens should be taken with a late-round choice. They are still a top-12 Fantasy DST.
6/27/2006
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Reed signs new deal with Ravens
News: The Ravens and FS Ed Reed have agreed to a seven-year deal, keeping the All-Pro signed through 2012. Reed didn't have a strong 2005 thanks to a high-ankle sprain that caused him to miss six games. He finished with 33 solo tackles, one interception and eight pass deflections.
Analysis: This is good news for owners of the Ravens DST in long-term keeper leagues since Reed is a game changer. Baltimore's defense should have plenty of playmakers but may lack at other positions and compete in the much-improved AFC North, making them a good but not great pick this year.
5/1/2006
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Ngata taken by the Ravens
News: The Ravens took Oregon DT Haloti Ngata with their first-round pick, 12th overall after swapping with Cleveland, in the 2006 NFL Draft. Ngata was the first defensive tackle taken in the draft.
Analysis: Ngata, a 6-foot-4, 337-pound nose tackle will definitely help the Ravens defense as a whole even though he won't rack up many statistics. This is a sign that the Ravens want Ray Lewis happy and in camp (he requested a defensive tackle in the days leading up to the draft). The Ravens DST is a desirable unit, but not one of the top 12 heading into training camp.
News: According to reports, the Baltimore Ravens have re-signed LB Bart Scott to a three-year, $13.5 million contract, including a $6.5 million signing bonus.
Analysis: Scott totaled 62 solo tackles, 4.5 sacks, two fumbles forced and recovered with a pass deflection in 2005. He started 10 games, replacing Ray Lewis when he was lost for the season.
3/8/2006
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Billick denies report on Lewis
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Ravens head coach Brian Billick denied reports that Ray Lewis wants out of Baltimore. "Has anyone heard from Ray himself? I've talked to Ray and he is about winning and always has been," Billick said.
Analysis: Lewis missed most of last season due to injuries but should be fine to start the '06 season. Look for the Ravens DST to be worth a late-round choice in drafts.
3/7/2006
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Baltimore going after DTs
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that the Ravens are interested in both Sam Adams and Ted Washington, who are defensive tackles that were let go earlier this offseason. The interest is based on the Ravens letting go of DT Maake Kemoeatu.
Analysis: The Ravens' defensive scheme needs a plowhorse nose tackle, which all of these guys are. Washington and Adams are a little bit older than Kemoeatu, but they're both very talented (Adams moreso than Washington). Baltimore's defense is expected to take a step backwards in 2006.
2/28/2006
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Pats release Starks, Ravens next?
News: The Baltimore Sun reports the Ravens are interested in CB Duane Starks, who has been released by the New England Patriots. The Ravens would use him to replace Deion Sanders in their nickel packages.
Analysis: Once a viable starter in IDP leagues, Starks has no real value at this point in his career but would be a nice addition for the Ravens DST.
2/13/2006
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Ravens shopping LB Lewis?
News: The Baltimore Sun reports LB Ray Lewis supposedly wants out of Baltimore and desires "Peyton Manning" money with another team. Furthermore, the Ravens have quietly shopped him, but have been offered only a second-round pick for Lewis.
Analysis: Lewis isn't considered a premier Fantasy linebacker anymore, partly because he has played a full season once in the last four years. The Ravens DST was considered a Fantasy powerhouse, but unless they cultivate talent this offseason, they could rank outside the top 12 come August for the first time this decade. Lewis' presence will only have minimal value on the unit.
1/6/2006
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BAL DST falls below expectations
News: The Ravens DST was considered one of the top units in Fantasy Football in 2005 … and then the season began. The Ravens hung tough defensively, collecting 26 turnovers (just 12 interceptions) and scoring a handful of defensive touchdowns. They were hurt by injuries to Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, and a lack of offense didn't help their cause, either.
Analysis: Expect the Ravens DST to rebound in 2005, but don't consider them anything more than a top-12 unit come draft time.
12/26/2005
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Ravens DST allows 23 points
News: The Ravens DST allowed 23 points and 262 total net yards in Week 16 against the Vikings. They also had three sacks and a fumble recovery in the game.
Analysis: The Ravens are an outstanding Fantasy option for Week 17 at Cleveland, a team which was shut out in Week 16 41-0 by Pittsburgh.
12/20/2005
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Ravens DST allows three points
News: The Baltimore defense totally shut down Brett Favre and the Packers in Week 15 on Monday night. They allowed just three points and 288 total net yards. They also had three sacks, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries. LB Adalius Thomas capped off the scoring with a 35-yard fumble recovery for touchdown.
Analysis: The Ravens were a strong play in Week 15 and remain a must-start for the remainder of the season in Week 16 against Minnesota and Week 17 at Cleveland.
12/12/2005
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Ravens DST holds up their end
News: The Ravens DST allowed 12 points while giving up 318 total net yards in Week 14 at Denver. They also had two sacks and a fumble recovery. On the injury front, DL Anthony Weaver (back) and LB Mike Smith (thigh) were both inactive. LB Adalius Thomas (back) and DB Chris McAlister (thigh) were able to start and DB Dale Carter (back) was also able to play.
Analysis: Thomas had eight tackles in the game, seven solo, to lead all defensive players for the Ravens. The Ravens are a solid play in Week 15 against Brett Favre and the Packers.
12/8/2005
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Ravens lose Ray Lewis for season
News: Ravens LB Ray Lewis (hamstring) was placed on injured reserve and will not be available to play for the remainder of the season. Bart Scott has been and will continue to start in his place.
Analysis: The Ravens defense can still make some plays, but without Lewis they are a little softer. They are not worth rolling with at Denver in Week 14.
12/7/2005
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Lewis done for the season
News: The Sun reports Ray Lewis (hamstring) had season-ending surgery Wednesday. He suffered a torn hamstring on Oct. 23 and is expected to be placed on injured reserve this week.
Analysis: Bart Scott will continue to start in Lewis' absence. The Ravens DST is not a recommended option for Week 14 at Denver.
12/6/2005
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Ray Lewis' season over?
News: The Sun reports the Baltimore Ravens acknowledged that Ray Lewis has a torn hamstring and could be out for the season.
Analysis: A decision on whether Lewis will need surgery will be determined later this week.
12/4/2005
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Ravens DST scores TD
News: The Ravens DST allowed 15 points and recorded one touchdown (Adalius Thomas), five sacks, one interception and one forced fumble in Sunday's 16-15 win over the Houston Texans.
Analysis: Despite this stellar performance, the Ravens DST is still not a recommended option in most leagues for Week 14 at Denver.
12/4/2005
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Reed in, Lewis out
News: Ed Reed is in, Ray Lewis and Anthony Weaver are out for Week 13.
Analysis: The Ravens DST should come up with some turnovers but not much else vs. Houston.
12/2/2005
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Lewis downgraded to doubtful
News: The Sun reports Ray Lewis (thigh) did not practice Friday and was downgraded to doubtful for Week 13.
Analysis: Lewis will miss another start, but the Ravens DST is still a decent option against the hapless Houston Texans.
11/30/2005
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Lewis, Reed questionable
News: Both Ray Lewis and Ed Reed are listed as questionable for Week 13 vs. Houston.
Analysis: If the All-Pro duo can return this week it would provide great relief to Ravens DST owners.
11/30/2005
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Demps out for the season
News: The Sun reports Will Demps (knee) suffered a partial tear of the ACL in his left knee and will miss the remainder of this season.
Analysis: Demps should be ready for training camp next July, although he does become a free agent this offseason.
11/29/2005
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Reed, Lewis to return?
News: The Post reports Ravens head coach Brian Billick said he is optimistic that Ray Lewis (thigh) and Ed Reed (ankle) will return to practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Reed has missed Baltimore's past six games, while Lewis has missed the past five. Both will be either questionable or doubtful for Week 13.
11/27/2005
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Ravens DST allows 42 points
News: The Ravens DST allowed 42 points and recorded one interception and one forced fumble in Sunday's 42-29 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Analysis: The Ravens DST isn't the same without LB Ray Lewis and SS Ed Reed, but it remains a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams for Week 12 against Houston.
11/27/2005
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Reed, Lewis OUT for BAL
News: Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis (thigh) and safety Ed Reed (ankle) are out for Week 12 at Cincinnati.
Analysis: Baltimore's DST should be benched in favor of more appealing units, but if none are available on the waiver wire, then the Ravens can still be used.
11/26/2005
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R. Lewis gone for the year?
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Ray Lewis (thigh) could miss the rest of the season with the Ravens falling out of contention. Lewis will miss his fifth straight game in Week 12. Ed Reed will also be out for Week 12.
Analysis: Ray Lewis won't help any IDP owners this year, but he is certainly worth keeping. The once feared Ravens DST is no longer a recommended Fantasy unit.
11/20/2005
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Ravens D holds steady
News: The Baltimore Ravens defense allowed 13 points and 282 yards in Week 11 vs. Pittsburgh. They recovered a fumble, intercepted a pass and recorded six sacks.
Analysis: They looked like the Ravens defense everyone thought they would be before the season. Despite the solid effort, the Ravens DST is not a recommended start in Week 12 at Cincinnati.
11/20/2005
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Reed, Lewis OUT for BAL
News: Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis (thigh) and safety Ed Reed (ankle) are out for Week 11 vs Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Baltimore's DST should be benched in favor of more appealing units, but if none are available on the waiver wire, then the Ravens can still be used.
11/18/2005
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Ravens DBs upgraded
News: Cornerbacks Dale Carter (thigh) and Zach Norton (ankle) and defensive back B.J. Ward (hip) were upgraded to probable. Only linebacker Ray Lewis (thigh), safety Ed Reed (ankle) and guard Keydrick Vincent (thigh) are out for Week 11 vs Pittsburgh.
Analysis: The Ravens DST was rated as one of the best units prior to the season, but injuries have hit them hard. They may get a chance for some turnovers against Tommy Maddox in Week 11, but they will probably give up points and yards.
11/15/2005
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Reed may return this week
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Safety Ed Reed (ankle) could return to the Ravens lineup for Week 11 vs. Pittsburgh. "Ed has come out of his [walking] boot. Ed seems to think he might be able to go this week. We'll wait and see how the week progresses and see what the doctors say as he does progress through it."
Analysis: Reed has missed the past four games with a high ankle sprain and Ray Lewis (thigh) who has been sidelined for the past three games, is not expected to play. The Ravens DST is no longer a must-start unit.
News: The Ravens D gave up 23 points in a 30-3 loss at Jacksonville in Week 10. They registered only one sack and did not force any turnovers.
Analysis: The Jaguars had their way with a listless Ravens defense still without their two biggest stars. The Ravens have become a defense to be started only when the right match-up occurs.
11/13/2005
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Lewis and Reed still OUT
News: Ray Lewis and Ed Reed will not play at Jacksonville in Week 10.
Analysis: The Ravens DST just isn't the same without them. Stay away if you have healthier options.
11/6/2005
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Ravens DST needs stars back
News: The Ravens DST registered three sacks, but failed to score or pick off a pass while giving up 21 points Week 9 vs. Cincinnati.
Analysis: Monitor the status of stars Ray Lewis and Ed Reed before making a decision on the Ravens DST for Week 10 at Jacksonville.
11/6/2005
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Reed, Lewis both out for BAL
News: SS Ed Reed (ankle) and LB Ray Lewis (hamstring) are both out for Week 9 vs. Cincinnati.
Analysis: The Ravens DST is still a tough unit, but against Cincinnati could get exposed. Owners are advised to search for a stronger DST before committing to Baltimore.
11/2/2005
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Lewis, Reed could miss Week 9
News: Ravens star defenders Ray Lewis (thigh) and Ed Reed (ankle sprain) are likely absentees for the team's Week 9 game vs. Cincinnati. Lewis could be out until Week 11.
Analysis: The Ravens DST is still a tough unit, but against Cincinnati could get exposed. Owners are advised to search for a stronger DST before committing to Baltimore.
11/1/2005
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Baltimore plays tough without stars
News: The Ravens DST allowed 20 points at Pittsburgh Monday. They gave up 101 yards rushing and only 160 yards passing. The defense also forced two sacks and two turnovers.
Analysis: The Ravens DST unit was without Ed Reed (ankle) and Ray Lewis (hamstring). They are no longer one of the top Fantasy defense in the game, but they can still get you points in several ways. They are not a recommended start against Cincinnati in Week 9.
10/29/2005
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LB Ray Lewis out until Week 11
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that Lewis (thigh) will likely be out until Nov. 20 against Pittsburgh. The Ravens defense is also dealing with the absence of SS Ed Reed (high ankle sprain) for Week 8 at Pittsburgh Monday.
Analysis: Tommy Polley, normally a WLB, will move to the middle to replace Lewis. Since the Steelers are one of the top rushing offenses in the league, this could prove to be a tough matchup for the Baltimore DST. Bart Scott will replace Polley at WLB and Chad Williams will start for Reed. Polley is the most attractive IDP starter for the coming week, but Scott could be a nice bye-week replacement in larger leagues.
10/27/2005
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Reed, Lewis both out
News: The Sun reports SS Ed Reed (ankle) and LB Ray Lewis (hamstring) are both out for Week 8 at Pittsburgh.
Analysis: The two studs hurt the value of the Ravens DST without question, so it's advised to search for healthier alternatives.
10/26/2005
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Ravens D hurting
News: Baltimore's defense could be without SS Ed Reed (ankle) and LB Ray Lewis (hamstring) when they play at Pittsburgh in Week 8.
Analysis: Using the Ravens DST unit could be a little trickier without those two players, even against the Steelers. Consider some options on the waiver wire before committing to them.
10/25/2005
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Ravens DST without Lewis, Reed?
News: The Ravens will likely be without linebacker Ray Lewis and safety Ed Reed when they face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday night. Reed missed Sunday's 10-6 loss to the Chicago Bears with a high ankle sprain, and Lewis left in the fourth quarter with a hamstring injury. Reed was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year last season, and Lewis won the award in 2003.
Analysis: The two keys to Baltimore's defense will be missed if they can't go. The Ravens have underachieved on defense to begin with, so seek alternatives for Week 8.
10/23/2005
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Baltimore holds Bears to 10 pts.
News: The Ravens DST registered only one sack at Chicago in Week 7, but they also held them to 10 points. However, the Bears did rush for 143 total yards and pass for 145 yards.
Analysis: The Ravens DST could be losing some steam. They played this game without Ed Reed and Ray Lewis left in the second half. Baltimore will be in for a challenge when they play at Pittsburgh in Week 8.
10/23/2005
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Ray Lewis leaves game
News: Ravens LB Ray Lewis left the Week 7 game at Chicago with an undisclosed injury. He walked off the field and into the locker room under his own power.
Analysis: Monitor this situation to see the extent of Lewis' ailment.
10/19/2005
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Ed Reed declared OUT
News: Ravens head coach Brian Billick declared safety Ed Reed (ankle) as out for Week 7 at Chicago. Chad Williams will start in his place.
Analysis: Baltimore's defense is still a must-start this week as they play against an inept Bears squad.
10/18/2005
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Reed nursing high ankle sprain
News: It appears likely All-Pro safety Ed Reed will miss this week's game against Chicago. "Hard to say. The high ankle sprain is always a concern," coach Brian Billick said. "It would be ill-advised to project at this time."
Analysis: Reed looks like he will have to be reserved for Week 7 in IDP leagues. His absence should affect the Ravens' defense, too, but that unit will remain a must-start against the Bears and shaky rookie QB Kyle Orton.
10/17/2005
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Ed Reed sprains ankle
News: Ravenssafety Ed Reed (ankle) left in Week 6 vs. Cleveland. The injury is not considered to be serious.
Analysis: Reed should be ready when the Ravens play at Chicago in Week 7. The Ravens DST is a super start nearly every week, but they are the perfect option for owners against an inept Chicago offense.
10/9/2005
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BAL gives up 35 points
News: The Ravens defense allowed 35 points to the Lions in Week 5 in Detroit. To be fair, they were put in bad situations by their offense and had a slew of penalties called against them. If you can believe it, they did not record a single sack, but did make two interceptions.
Analysis: Baltimore's had a couple of really poor outings on the road. While they are still one of the most threatening DSTs in Fantasy Football, perhaps owners should secure a second DST unit to platoon with them for the rest of the year. We like their chances vs. Cleveland in Week 6.
10/2/2005
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Ravens D shoots down the Jets
News: The Baltimore defense allowed only three points and 152 total net yards in Week 4 against QB Brooks Bollinger and the Jets.
Analysis: Fantasy owners had to be licking their chops with Bollinger facing their starting defense this week. Surprisingly enough, the Ravens had no interceptions or fumble recoveries against the Jets, although they were able to sack Bollinger five times. The Ravens are a must-start in all leagues, especially for Week 5 at Detroit.
9/18/2005
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Ravens DST allows 25 points
News: The Ravens DST allowed 25 points with one sack, no interceptions and one forced fumble in Sunday's loss to the Tennessee Titans.
Analysis: The Ravens have a bye in Week 3, so this unit should be on reserve.
9/12/2005
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Ed Reed hurts thigh
News: BaltimoreRavens.com reports All-Pro FS Ed Reed suffered a thigh contusion against the Colts in Week 1.
Analysis: There's no word on the severity of his injury. Keep tabs on this since he's a key part of the Ravens defense.
9/12/2005
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Ravens DST can't do it themselves
News: The Baltimore DST was just as impressive as ever sniffing out the ball, but they received little help from the offense in Week 1 against the Colts. The Ravens allowed 17 points on defense and another seven on an interception return by Indianapolis' Cato June, but they did not sack Peyton Manning, nor cause any turnovers.
Analysis: The Ravens defense remains a top Fantasy unit. They will look to force some turnovers in Week 2 at Tennessee.
8/19/2005
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Boulware signing official
News: LB Peter Boulware has officially agreed to a one-year deal with the Ravens.
Analysis: Boulware is a sack specialist and will likely only be used on passing downs.
8/18/2005
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Boulware to sign back up with BAL
News: The Baltimore Sun reports DE Peter Boulware is set to rejoin the Ravens assuming he passes his physical. The Ravens need to add another pass rusher.
Analysis: Boulware will make an already dominant Ravens DST even better.
8/14/2005
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Ravens' first-string D solid
News: Baltimore's first-string defense held the Falcons' first-string offense to three points while pressuring Michael Vick relentlessly in their first preseason game at Atlanta. They recorded two sacks and forced and recovered a fumble. "I think we established what we wanted to establish," middle linebacker Ray Lewis told the Baltimore Sun.
Analysis: There should be no doubt that the Ravens DST is tops in Fantasy Football.
8/8/2005
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Deion Sanders: sack monster?
News: In a scrimmage against the Redskins last week, CB Deion Sanders registered two sacks in 10 plays. Sanders lined up as a slot cornerback and rushed the quarterback instead of covering the field. In the same scrimmage, Ray Lewis added four tackles and a sack.
Analysis: The Ravens seem to be adjusting to the 46-zone defense, and should result in a more aggressive defense in 2005. They're the top DST unit in Fantasy Football.
8/3/2005
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Ravens D already dominating
News: BaltimoreRavens.com reports that the Baltimore defense intercepted at least five passes on the second day of practice during team drills and also blitzed freely. The team is experimenting with the 4-3 formation, 3-4 formation and 46 zone formation. "Before you get caught up in all of that," Ray Lewis said, "the one thing about our defense is that defense is defense. 46, 34, 43, it don't matter. We're just going to line up and play."
Analysis: Despite losing rookie Dan Cody indefinitely, the Ravens DST is still the best Fantasy unit in the NFL.
News: The Ravens announced that rookie DE Dan Cody suffered a second- or third-degree ACL sprain and will be out indefinitely.
Analysis: Cody would have added significant depth to the Ravens' D-line, but his injury does not affect the Ravens DST.
7/31/2005
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CB Samari Rolle facing suspension
News: Rolle is facing a one-game suspension from the NFL due to a violation of the league's personal conduct policy.
Analysis: The suspension is due to a domestic assault case in February. It is unclear which game the penalty will be imposed, but the Ravens defensive unit will be a must-start in every week.
6/6/2005
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Ravens sign Deion Sanders
News: According to reports, the Baltimore Ravens have signed Sanders to a one-year contract.
Analysis: Sanders will serve as the team's nickel cornerback and adds value to the Ravens DST.
5/17/2005
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McAlister not 100 percent
News: The Ravens official website reports CB Chris McAlister continues to progress well after undergoing offseason surgery on his injured toe. "When that toe doesn't bend and it hurts to run and you're out there on that island, there's only a few people in the league that can tell you what it's like," McAlister said. "I literally had no motion on my big toe, so it was bone hitting bone."
Analysis: McAlister says he's not 100 percent recovered, but he feels much better than he did at the end of last season. He should be back to full health when the regular season starts.
5/17/2005
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CB Sanders to return
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Deion Sanders is expected to return to the Ravens as a nickel cornerback next season. "The plan is for him to join us for the June minicamps," head coach Brian Billick said. "That was the plan all along, and I have heard nothing to indicate that won't happen."
Analysis: Sanders might be old compared to most cornerbacks, but he's still a nice nickel option for Billick's defense. Expect the Ravens DST to be one of the first two units selected in drafts.
5/12/2005
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Ravens release LB Boulware
News: The Ravens official website reports the team has terminated the contract of Peter Boulware. "Peter has been a major contributor to the success of our organization both on and off the field," said GM Ozzie Newsome.
Analysis: Boulware should receive interest from several teams, a list that includes the Cleveland Browns.
4/20/2005
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Ravens add LB Nelson
News: According to reports, the Baltimore Ravens have signed Jim Nelson.
Analysis: Nelson recorded 61 total tackles for Indianapolis last season.
3/8/2005
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Ravens ink CB Rolle
News: The Baltimore Ravens have signed Samari Rolle to a six-year, $30.5 million contract that included an $11 million signing bonus.
Analysis: The Ravens now have the best defensive backfield in the league with Rolle, Ed Reed, Chris McAllister and Will Demps.
1/2/2005
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Ray Lewis out
News: Ravens LB Ray Lewis (wrist) is out for Week 17 against Miami.
Analysis: Even without their team leader, the Ravens defense should still be able to handle the Miami offense.
12/26/2004
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LB Ray Lewis able to play
News: LB Lewis (wrist) was able to play in Week 16 at Pittsburgh. He had five solo tackles and eight assists. The team allowed 20 points and 404 total net yards.
Analysis: The Ravens also did not record a sack, had only one interception and one forced fumble. They will look to bounce back in Week 17 against the Dolphins.
12/21/2004
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Ray Lewis breaks wrist
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis fractured his wrist in Week 15 at Indianapolis. Coach Brian Billick said he will play in Week 16 at Pittsburgh and likely will wear either a cast or a splint to protect the wrist. "There's little doubt that he will play on Sunday," Billick said.
Analysis: Lewis is the ultimate NFL warrior and wouldn't miss a game that could very well determine if the Ravens advance to the postseason.
12/20/2004
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Ravens D not a trivia answer
News: Who allowed the record-tying 48th touchdown pass by Indianapolis' Peyton Manning in 2004? What is - not the Baltimore defense? The Ravens stepped up and confused the high-octane Indianapolis offense most of the night in Week 15. They allowed 20 points and 316 total net yards, but only one Peyton Manning touchdown pass, leaving him one short.
Analysis: The Baltimore defense is so talented and so quick that not even the best quarterback in the game today can hang more than one touchdown on them. They've allowed only 11 touchdown passes and one or less in 12 of 14 games this season.
12/13/2004
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Prime Time returns
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Deion Sanders was able to return to action in Week 14 against the Giants. The nickel back had missed the previous four games with a toe injury. "It's good," Sanders said. "I think it's just a trust issue going on with myself and my toe. But throughout the game I was able to dismiss the pain and perform."
Analysis: The Ravens D/ST has a big challenge in Week 15 when they face the Colts.
12/12/2004
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Ravens dominate
News: The Ravens forced four first-half turnovers, intercepting rookie Eli Manning twice as Baltimore dominated the Giants in Week 14.
Analysis: The Ravens are the top Fantasy D/ST in the league and should be active every week. They have a huge test in Week 15 when they travel to Indy to face Peyton Manning.
12/8/2004
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Prime Time ready?
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Deion Sanders (toe) could return to action in Week 14 against the New York Giants.
Analysis: The Ravens D/ST is a great option in Week 14 against the Giants.
12/5/2004
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Ravens DST scores on fumble return
News: The Baltimore DST scored on a 64-yard fumble return for a touchdown against Cincinnati Sunday. They also registered an interception and three sacks.
Analysis: The Ravens DST continues to be a solid Fantasy unit. Start them in Week 14 against the Giants.
12/3/2004
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McAlister full throttle
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, cornerback Chris McAlister (neck) proclaimed he would start and play all the defensive snaps in Week 13 against Cincinnati. "There are no limitations," McAlister said. "I'm full throttle."
Analysis: The Ravens are the top Fantasy D/ST in the NFL and should be active in all leagues.
11/28/2004
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Pats knock around Ravens D
News: The Baltimore defense was manhandled in Week 12 at New England, allowing 24 points and 314 total net yards.
Analysis: The Ravens defense had only one sack and they did not have an interception or forced fumble.
11/26/2004
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Ravens D/ST injury update
News: The Ravens listed the following defensive players on their injury report for Week 12 at New England: LB Cornell Brown (infection, questionable), CB Chris McAlister (shoulder, questionable), CB Deion Sanders (foot, questionable), LB Bart Scott (ankle, probable) and LB T.J. Slaughter (wrist, probable).
Analysis: The Ravens are the top Fantasy D/ST in the NFL and should be active in all leagues.
11/23/2004
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McAlister likely back
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Ravens cornerback Chris McAlister (neck) will likely play in Week 12 at New England. In other news, nickel back Deion Sanders (toe) is questionable for Week 12.
Analysis: The Ravens are the top Fantasy D/ST and should be active every week.
11/21/2004
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Ravens shred Dallas
News: The Ravens DST allowed 10 points with one touchdown, two sacks, two interceptions and one forced fumble in Sunday's win over Dallas.
Analysis: This unit is one of the most valuable in Fantasy Football.
11/21/2004
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CB McAlister doubtful
News: Chris McAlister (neck) has been downgraded to doubtful for Week 11.
Analysis: With CB Deion Sanders (foot) listed as questionable, the Cowboys might actually be able to pass on the Ravens.
11/19/2004
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McAlister likely out
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Ravens cornerback Chris McAlister (neck) was unable to practice again Thursday and likely won't play in Week 11 against Dallas. In other news, nickel back Deion Sanders (toe) also did not practice Thursday.
Analysis: McAlister will probably be replaced by Corey Fuller. The Ravens are the top Fantasy D/ST in the NFL and should be active in all leagues.
11/18/2004
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Ravens D/ST injury update
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Ravens cornerback Chris McAlister (neck) was unable to practice Wednesday and is questionable for Week 11 against Dallas. He is expected to be a game-time decision. "It feels a lot better than it did Sunday," McAlister said. In other news, nickel back Deion Sanders (foot) did not practice on Wednesday and is listed as questionable for Week 11.
Analysis: The Ravens are the top Fantasy D/ST in the NFL and should be active in all leagues.
11/16/2004
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CB Chris McAlister injured
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Chris McAlister suffered neck trauma known as a stinger in Week 10. The Ravens are optimistic he will be back soon. "We think Chris will be OK," coach Brian Billick said. "It's a severe stinger basically. It's sore and it doesn't feel good right now. He's had all the imaging and all the other things that are done on it, so we're optimistic about that."
Analysis: In other news, the Ravens have until next week to decide whether to activate LB Peter Boulware (knee) or keep him on PUP, which would end his season.
News: The Ravens DST allowed 16 points with five sacks and one interception in Sunday's win over the Jets.
Analysis: This unit is a solid option in Week 11 against Dallas.
11/13/2004
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Sanders misses practice
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Deion Sanders (toe) missed practice on Friday.
Analysis: Prime Time is not expected to play in Week 10.
11/12/2004
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No Prime Time for Week 10?
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, nickel back Deion Sanders (toe) did not practice on Thursday for a second straight day. He remains questionable for Week 10 against the Jets but could be downgraded to doubtful.
Analysis: If Sanders can't play the Ravens will use a combination of Corey Fuller and Ray Walls at nickel back. The Ravens are the top option at D/ST in Fantasy football.
11/10/2004
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Sams setting records
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, B.J. Sams' 364 punt return yards are a Ravens' record for a rookie, surpassing Jermaine Lewis' mark of 339 set in 1996. In other news, Safety Ed Reed was named the AFC's Defensive Player of the Week for his 106-yard interception return against the Browns in Week 9.
Analysis: The Ravens are the top D/ST in Fantasy football.
11/9/2004
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CB Deion Sanders OK
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Sanders (toe) looked OK at the team complex on Monday, but he could still be listed as questionable for Week 10.
Analysis: The Ravens DST should remain active this week against the Jets.
11/8/2004
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Deion injures toe
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, defensive back Deion Sanders left the Week 9 game against Cleveland in the second quarter with an injury to a toe on his left foot.
Analysis: Sanders should be considered questionable for Week 10 against the New York Jets.
11/8/2004
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Ravens defense comes up big
News: The Baltimore defense limited the Browns to six points on offense and 217 total net yards. They also had three sacks, an interception and three forced fumbles. LB Ray Lewis (knee) was his normal disruptive self, making seven solo tackles, assisting on another and breaking up a pass.
Analysis: S Ed Reed also returned the team's only interception 106 yards with :26 remaining in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. The Ravens head to the Meadowlands for a date with the Jets in Week 10.
11/5/2004
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Ray Lewis held out
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Ray Lewis (knee) did not practice on Thursday and continues to be listed as probable for Week 9 against Cleveland.
Analysis: Lewis will be ready to play against the Browns, the team is just playing it safe. The Ravens are a top Fantasy defense.
11/2/2004
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LB Boulware to practice
News: The Baltimore Sun reports LB Peter Boulware (knee) will practice later this week for the first time this season.
Analysis: Once Boulware practices, the Ravens will have three weeks to place him on the active roster or on injured reserve for the rest of the season.
10/29/2004
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B.J. Sams probable
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, reserve running back/return specialist B.J. Sams (back) is probable for Week 8 against Philadelphia.
Analysis: It is safe to keep the Ravens active for Week 8.
10/24/2004
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Ravens get four picks
News: The Baltimore Ravens intercepted Drew Bledsoe four times in Week 7. Deion Sanders had two interceptions, including one he returned 48 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: Baltimore is clearly one of the top Fantasy defenses in the NFL. The Ravens travel to Philadelphia in Week 8.
10/24/2004
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Deion strikes
News: Deion Sanders made his first interception of the 2004 season and returned it 48 yards for a touchdown. Drew Bledsoe of the Bills was his victim.
Analysis: Sanders isn't the star he used to be but certainly helps the Ravens defense.
10/20/2004
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LB R.Lewis prepared for Bills
News: Ray Lewis leads the talented Ravens defense with 44 tackles through five games. He ranks 13th in the NFL in that category. He'll face Buffalo in Week 7.
Analysis: The Ravens are a great Fantasy option for this matchup. Drew Bledsoe has struggled the majority of the season and Baltimore is very stingy against the rush and the pass.
10/11/2004
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Ravens defense carries team
News: The Baltimore defense carried the team to a victory in Week 5 at Washington. The unit allowed 107 total net yards, while sacking quarterback Mark Brunell three times and picking him off once. They also recovered a fumble. DB Deion Sanders (hamstring) also returned to the lineup after missing one game.
Analysis: The evening was highlighted by two scores by the DST within 2:12 of each other in the third quarter. S Ed Reed scooped up a fumble and returned it 22 yards for a score and then rookie B.J. Sams returned a punt 78 yards for another six. The team will look to clamp down on Drew Bledsoe and the Bills in Week 7 after the club's bye week.
10/5/2004
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CB Sanders looks to Week 5
News: The Baltimore Sun reports CB Deion Sanders (hamstring) is expected to be ready for Week 5 against the Redskins.
Analysis: Sanders is considered day to day. His return as a nickleback will help strengthen the Baltimore defense, which was uncharacteristically shoddy against the Chiefs on Monday night.
10/1/2004
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Deion upgraded
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, defensive back and return man Deion Sanders returned to practice on Thursday. Sanders was upgraded from doubtful to questionable for Week 4 against Kansas City. In other news, guard Kelly Gregg (knee) and linebacker T.J. Slaughter (hamstring) also returned to practice.
Analysis: The Ravens are a top Fantasy defense and should be active every week.
9/28/2004
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DB Sanders to practice
News: The Baltimore Sun reports Sanders (hamstring) is expected to practice this week.
Analysis: He remains questionable for Week 4, though his status should improve with a full week of work.
9/27/2004
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Ed Reed comes up big
News: Ed Reed had two interceptions against the Bengals in Week 3. According to the Baltimore Sun, his teammates know what kind of player Reed is. "That was big," nickel back Ray Walls said. "Ed Reed is a big player making big plays. He's our leader in the secondary, doing his job." Terrell Suggs added: "When he's playing like that, we're very hard to beat."
Analysis: It was the third two-interception game of Reed's career. The Ravens are the top Fantasy defense in the league.
9/26/2004
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Ravens lock up Bengals
News: The Ravens limited the Bengals to just nine points in Week 3. Ed Reed led the defense with two of their three interceptions.
Analysis: The Ravens are one of the top defenses in the league, they should be owned and active in all formats. Baltimore plays Kansas City in Week 4.
9/19/2004
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Ravens D dominates
News: The Baltimore Ravens shut out the Pittsburgh Steelers for three quarters in Week 2. The Steelers managed a couple of late scores but cornerback Chris McAlister ended their rally with a 51-yard interception return for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Ravens remain one of the best defenses in the NFL and are a must start every week. Baltimore plays at the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 3.
9/17/2004
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Gary Baxter practices
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Ravens cornerback Gary Baxter (hand) was able to practice on Friday and expects to play in Week 2. In other news, defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (knee) has been ruled out for Week 2.
Analysis: The Pittsburgh Steelers play at the Baltimore Ravens in Week 2. Despite their poor performance in Week 1 against Cleveland, Fantasy owners should keep the Ravens active in all formats.
9/12/2004
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Ravens DST has bad game
News: The Ravens DST allowed 20 points and posted a mere two sacks with no interceptions in Sunday's loss to Cleveland.
Analysis: Despite the bad game, this unit remains a solid start in all Fantasy leagues.
9/9/2004
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Ravens defense ready to go
News: LB Ray Lewis, DB Deion Sanders and the rest of the Baltimore defense is ready for the team's opener in Cleveland.
Analysis: Baltimore allowed 13 points in two games against the Browns a season ago, so like every week, they are a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
9/1/2004
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Deion in the Ravens' house
News: Deion Sanders passed his physical and formally ended his retirement by signing a one-year contract with the Ravens. The seven-time Pro Bowl defensive back expects to play in the Ravens' season opener Sept. 12 against the Cleveland Browns. "This game is not all that complicated. We're going to try to ingrain him as quickly as we can," coach Brian Billick said. "We have to make sure we know where he's at physically. He's here plenty early enough to have an impact."
Analysis: Sanders, 37, will be used as a fifth defensive back in Baltimore. His presence can only help the Ravens become an even better Fantasy defense.
8/27/2004
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Ravens to welcome Prime Time
News: According to published reports, retired CB Deion Sanders is expected to join the Baltimore Ravens on Wednesday. He will then travel with the team for the Sept. 2 preseason game at N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: In other news, CB Chris McAlister is expected to end his holdout on Sunday and will report to practice a day or two later, according to published reports. The Ravens defense is already a top defensive unit, so the addition of Sanders will only strengthen that position.
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, undrafted rookie B.J. Sams has a strong chance to win the job returning kicks and punts for the Ravens. He is competing with Lamont Brightful and Derek Abney.
Analysis: The Ravens should be drafted on the strength of their defense and not their special teams this season.
8/24/2004
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DT Zielinski out for season
News: Rookie DT Matt Zielinski will miss the season after undergoing surgery to repair an injury to his ACL.
Analysis: Zielinski's loss will not decrease the Fantasy value of the Baltimore defensive unit.
8/24/2004
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"Prime Time" to tell by Monday
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Deion Sanders will tell the Ravens by Monday (August 30th) if he intends to play for them this season. "Certainly we'd love to have him in," coach Brian Billick said.
Analysis: Sanders is certainly not the player he once was but he could give Baltimore some nice help in the secondary. The Ravens are a top defense with or without him.
8/23/2004
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Ravens D banged up
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, the Ravens defense has its fair share of injuries right now. "It's nicks, bumps and bruises per that part of camp," coach Brian Billick said. "Some of those guys are just going to have to get past those bumps and bruises. But all in all, we are in fairly good shape."
Analysis: None of the injuries are too bad and unless something changes, the Baltimore defense should be close to 100 percent for the start of the regular season. Defensive end Marques Douglas (elbow) and linebacker Peter Boulware (knee) are the only two that might miss the opener at Cleveland. The Ravens should be one of the first defenses taken in Fantasy drafts.
8/20/2004
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Deion to decide "very soon"
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Deion Sanders will decide "very soon" whether he will come out of retirement and play for the Ravens. In other news, the Ravens are eager to face the Eagles and Terrell Owens in a preseason game Friday night. There has been some bad blood and plenty of talk since Owens rejected the Ravens this offseason, finally signing with Philadelphia. "If he says he's the greatest, then we want to face him," cornerback Gary Baxter said. Linebacker Ray Lewis added, "If he catches a ball in my area, we'll deal with it that way. That's just football."
Analysis: The Ravens will again be a top defense in the NFL and should be one of the top five units drafted.
8/19/2004
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Lance Frazier to get chance
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, undrafted rookie cornerback Lance Frazier will get a chance to return punts for the Ravens. "I'm pretty experienced [at returning]," said Frazier. "It's another way to make the team, especially if I have a good game. The biggest thing is to be smart back there."
Analysis: Lamont Brightful has been awful and so Frazier is getting a chance. Despite their return woes, the Ravens defense should be drafted in all Fantasy formats.
8/16/2004
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"Prime Time" to Baltimore?
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, Deion Sanders is thinking of making a comeback as the Ravens' nickel back. The former Pro Bowl corner has been out of football for three seasons. "To my knowledge, Deion Sanders is retired," Ravens coach Brian Billick said. "That kind of takes him off our radar. If he decides to unretire, like any number of other teams, we would be interested."
Analysis: Sanders loves publicity and probably wouldn't deny any rumors about a comeback, even if it was the last thing on his mind. We'll see where this story goes. At 37, it's questionable how much Deion has left in the tank but he would give the Ravens some much needed depth in the secondary.
8/3/2004
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Ed Reed focused for big year
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, safety Ed Reed reported to camp in the best shape of his life after rigorous summer workouts with teammate Ray Lewis. The safety has tried not to rest on his laurels after making his first trip to the Pro Bowl. "That's the easy part of the game, to have your mind set on all the accolades," Reed said. "I just continue to play my game and keep it simple -- that's getting to the football."
Analysis: Reed has proven to be every bit the ball hawk in the NFL that he was at the University of Miami. He should be a main part of one of the top defenses in the league.
7/31/2004
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Boulware lands on PUP list
News: Peter Boulware (knee) was placed on the PUP list on Saturday. His status for opening day is uncertain.
Analysis: Boulware will be a situational pass rusher this season. The Ravens defense is still a top unit from a Fantasy perspective despite his decrease in playing time.
7/30/2004
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Boulware to be placed on PUP
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, linebacker Peter Boulware (knee) will be placed on the physically-unable-to-perform list (PUP) on Friday. His status for the start of the regular season remains in doubt. "Can he be ready for the season if all he has done is rehab the entire preseason and not had any contact before the opener? That's something we're going to have to determine," Coach Brian Billick said.
Analysis: Boulware won't be an every-down player this season. Rather, he will be used as a situational pass rusher. Expect a few less sacks from the Ravens defense this season.
7/29/2004
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McAlister not with Ravens
News: As the Ravens open training camp Thursday, the team is without star corner Chris McAlister, who is holding out with a contract issue.
Analysis: Not a huge deal. McAlister will get to camp soon enough and the Baltimore defense will again be one of the best in the NFL.
7/2/2004
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LB Boulware continues rehab
News: Peter Boulware (knee surgery) has been given the green light to step up his rehabilitation program.
Analysis: Boulware will likely be used as a situational pass rusher this season. The Ravens will again one of the top Fantasy defenses with or without a healthy Boulware in the lineup.
2/26/2004
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Ray Lewis to have surgery
News: According to published reports, Lewis will have arthroscopic surgery on his shoulder and will need four to six weeks to recover.
Analysis: Lewis is expected to be ready for mini camp. Barring any setbacks, the defensive MVP will be ready to go in 2004.
12/21/2003
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Ravens defense dominant Sunday
News: The Baltimore Ravens shut out the Cleveland Browns in Week 16. The Ravens held the Browns to 211 total net yards and DB Chad Williams had a 52-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. The unit also produced five sacks and three forced fumbles.
Analysis: The Ravens put smiles on many Fantasy owners faces in Week 16. If your league has the Fantasy championship in Week 17, the Ravens are a recommended unit for their matchup against the up-and-down Steelers.
12/18/2003
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Ray Lewis is questionable
News: Lewis (shoulder) is questionable for Week 16.
Analysis: Lewis is expected to start against the Browns. The Ravens' defense is a must-start option as they face Cleveland.
12/10/2003
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LB Ray Lewis has shoulder bruise
News: Lewis has a bruised right shoulder, although he was able to practice on Wednesday. Also, LB Adalius Thomas (arm) had surgery on Tuesday and has been placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: Lewis is considered day to day. He is officially listed as questionable. The Ravens are a solid Fantasy option against Rick Mirer and the struggling Oakland offense.
12/9/2003
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Adalius Thomas out for a while
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that Thomas (elbow) underwent surgery Tuesday that will keep him out for six weeks.
Analysis: Terrell Suggs will replace Thomas in the lineup.
12/7/2003
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Ravens suffer key injuries
News: Baltimore LB Adalius Thomas sustained a fracture in the elbow area and will likely require surgery. KR Lamont Brightful sprained his knee in the third quarter on Sunday and did not return.
Analysis: Despite the injuries, the Ravens' defense/special teams remains a top Fantasy unit in many leagues.
11/13/2003
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No major changes for Ravens
News: The Baltimore Sun reports CB Corey Fuller is no longer on the injury report, but Gary Baxter still might start at CB over Fuller.
Analysis: The Ravens should be a prolific Fantasy unit in Week 11 against Miami.
11/3/2003
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Ray Lewis survives scare
News: The Baltimore Sun notes Ray Lewis laid on the ground in pain after making a game-clinching interception in Week 9.
Analysis: Lewis had the wind knocked out of him, and was able to return to the sidelines under his own power.
9/4/2003
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Ravens face rival Steelers
News: The Ravens square off against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field in Week 1. Only CB Alvin Porter (doubtful-groin) and CB Tommy Knight (questionable-thigh) appear on the team's injury report.
Analysis: The Ravens defense will be a solid Fantasy unit this season and is worth starting in most weeks.
8/19/2003
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Ravens defense notes
News: According to the Baltimore Sun, CB Chris McAlister (personal reasons), CB Tom Knight (hamstring), S Ray Perryman (shoulder) and LB Bernardo Harris (leg) did not practice on Monday. CB Alvin Porter (groin) was carted off midway through practice and did not return.
Analysis: None of the injuries are considered overly serious. The Ravens defense should be a quality unit from a Fantasy perspective this season.
8/5/2003
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CB Tom Knight injures thumb
News: The Ravens' defensive unit saw a few injuries occur on Monday. The veteran Knight suffered a sprained thumb. He is considered day to day. More serious injuries occured to reserve linebacker Bernardo Harris, who fractured his left fibula. He is expected to miss at least four to six weeks, according to the team's official website. Reserve safety Raymond Perryman also dislocated his left shoulder and is out indefinitely.
Analysis: The injury to Knight is not considered serious. Harris and Perryman are reserves and their injuries do not decrease the Fantasy value of the Baltimore defensive unit, which will be one of the top picks on Draft Day.
7/30/2003
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Ravens sign LB Terrell Suggs
News: Suggs agreed to terms on a five-year deal with Baltimore on Tuesday.
Analysis: The addition of Suggs strenghtens one of the top defensive units in Fantasy Football. He is expected to compete for the team lead in sacks and is a solid pick in individual defender leagues as well.
7/24/2003
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Ravens make secondary changes
News: The Baltimore Sun says Gary Baxter will move from cornerback to free safety, with Corey Fuller starting at one cornerback spot. "Gary is the most flexible guy I've got," secondary coach Donnie Henderson said. "For us to start the season now, the flexibility of Gary playing safety is probably the best way to go for the team. I'm not sure it's the best way for him, because I still think he can be a great corner. With that being said, we are still going to have that flexibility to move him back."
Analysis: Baltimore's defense should be an aggressive, opportunistic unit this year, and will be one of the better units available on Draft Day.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that the Ravens have terminated the contract of Michael McCrary. He had been thinking about retirement during the offseason due to chronic knee problems.
Analysis: McCrary no longer being in the mix does not decrease the Fantasy appeal of the Ravens defensive unit. They will again be a highly pursued unit on Draft Day.
