The Baltimore Ravens won't have to wait until the regular season to see how their defense responds to one of the NFL's most difficult quarterbacks to contain. Minnesota has named Kyler Murray its starting quarterback, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The decision adds another layer of intrigue to Baltimore's upcoming trip to Minnesota for two joint practices with the Vikings.
Following Saturday's preseason matchup against the Eagles at M&T Bank Stadium, the Ravens will practice against Minnesota on Aug. 19 and 20 before the teams meet in a preseason game at U.S. Bank Stadium on Aug. 22. The practice sessions could provide Baltimore's starters with their most valuable work against an opposing offense before Week 1.
Murray's arm talent alone would make the two practices worthwhile for Baltimore's secondary. His ability to escape pressure, extend plays and create outside the structure of an offense will test every level of Jesse Minter's defense.
Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins, Chidobe Awuzie, Kyle Hamilton and Malaki Starks will be challenged to remain disciplined when Murray leaves the pocket. Coverage responsibilities don't disappear once the original play breaks down. They often become more difficult as receivers adjust their routes and defenders are forced to cover for an additional three or four seconds.
That will make communication essential. Baltimore's defensive backs have consistently disrupted the passing game during training camp, but facing Murray and Minnesota's collection of pass catchers will offer a more revealing evaluation than competing against the same teammates every day.
#minnesota #murray #Ravens #difficult
Following Saturday's preseason matchup against the Eagles at M&T Bank Stadium, the Ravens will practice against Minnesota on Aug. 19 and 20 before the teams meet in a preseason game at U.S. Bank Stadium on Aug. 22. The practice sessions could provide Baltimore's starters with their most valuable work against an opposing offense before Week 1.
Murray's arm talent alone would make the two practices worthwhile for Baltimore's secondary. His ability to escape pressure, extend plays and create outside the structure of an offense will test every level of Jesse Minter's defense.
Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins, Chidobe Awuzie, Kyle Hamilton and Malaki Starks will be challenged to remain disciplined when Murray leaves the pocket. Coverage responsibilities don't disappear once the original play breaks down. They often become more difficult as receivers adjust their routes and defenders are forced to cover for an additional three or four seconds.
That will make communication essential. Baltimore's defensive backs have consistently disrupted the passing game during training camp, but facing Murray and Minnesota's collection of pass catchers will offer a more revealing evaluation than competing against the same teammates every day.
#minnesota #murray #Ravens #difficult
3 months ago
