The Baltimore Ravens went into Rutherford, N.J., shorthanded as five pro bowlers and their first round draft pick were listed as inactive.
On Sunday, the Ravens dropped their third game in a row to the Giants, 27-23. This time, the loss falls on the shoulders of the defense as Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham cooked the Ravens secondary on a 66-yard touchdown in the final minute.
Beckham finished the day hauling in eight receptions for 222 yards and two touchdowns. Both scores were 60 yards or longer. Along with Beckham, Giants quarterback Eli Manning also had a field day, completing 32 passes for 403 yards and three touchdowns.
On the other hand, Joe Flacco did what he needed to do today, throwing for 307 yards and taking plenty of deep shots against the Giants (3-3). He also avoided throwing an interception for his third straight week. Running back Terrance West was able to rush for 87 yards and punch in two touchdowns.
Mike Wallace proved once again he is a deep threat and was able to catch a 70-yard pass and force a defensive penalty in the process. Justin Tucker, who is arguably the best kicker in the NFL, converted on all three of his field goal attempts, as he hasn’t missed a field goal so far this season.
Baltimore’s front-seven held the Giants’ running game in check, only giving up 38 total rushing yards. Ravens’ cornerbacks Tavon Young and Will Davis were able to haul in interceptions and linebacker Zachary Orr was able to recover a fumble which resulted in points for the Ravens.
While Baltimore took a step forward on offense under new offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg — scoring two rushing touchdowns — the defense took a major step backwards as the Ravens’ secondary failed to account for New York’s dangerous receiving corps. Cornerback Jimmy Smith getting injured was a heavy blow for the Ravens’ defense.
To make matters worse, linebacker Terrell Suggs and cornerback Jimmy Smith both suffered injuries that could keep sideline them for an extended period of time.
At least the Ravens will be able to take solace in knowing AFC North rivals Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Cleveland all suffered losses on Sunday as well.
Baltimore will remain in New Jersey next week as they will take on the turnover-prone New York Jets on Sunday, Oct. 23.
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