Depth on defensive line becomes a concern for Ravens
OWINGS MILLS — The Ravens have one of the best-performing defensive lines in the NFL, but they are now dealing with several injuries that could affect their performance.
Defensive end Brent Urban (concussion) and defensive tackle Michael Pierce (calf) both had to leave Sunday’s 29-24 loss to the Cleveland Browns. Fellow defensive tackle Travis Jones was able to play despite an ankle injury, but he was limited to 15 snaps.
Ravens coach John Harbaugh expressed concern about the status of the defensive line because of those injuries.
“It’s a tough situation. I would like to have those guys out there,” he said. “But we also have guys that can step up and play. We have guys on our practice squad, and we’re going to have guys that are ready to go.”
The Ravens have the NFL’s best run defense, allowing 69.9 yards per game. The defensive line has not allowed a running back to surpass 100 yards this season.
The Broncos could pose a challenge and average 121.4 yards rushing per game with the duo of Jaleel McLaughlin and Javonte Williams.
After a slow start, Denver has won two straight games and is 5-3. The Ravens (5-3) are looking to bounce back from the disappointing loss to Cleveland and are one game behind the first-place Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2) in the AFC North.
“Stopping the run this game is going to be really important – it’s going to be huge,” Harbaugh said. “[The Broncos are] a running team, and they run it really well, and they run it a lot, so it’s going to be a big part of the game plan.”