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The Baltimore Ravens couldn't have asked for a much better start to the Jesse Minter era. With most of the team's projected starters watching from the sideline, Baltimore dominated the Philadelphia Eagles 24-7 on Saturday night at M&T Bank Stadium. The Ravens outgained Philadelphia 440-159, controlled possession for more than 41 minutes and held the Eagles to just six first downs.
The final score matters little in the preseason, but several individual performances provided legitimate reasons for optimism.
Here are the biggest takeaways from the preseason opener
Joe Fagnano was 22-of-28 for 223 yards with one TD and one interception.
The rookie wide receiver continued the momentum he built throughout training camp. Lane finished with three catches for 38 yards and a touchdown, including an impressive 18-yard touchdown connection with Joe Fagnano. Lane's ability to attack the football and make contested catches was one of the biggest storylines of camp, and he immediately carried that ability into his first NFL game.
Randall had 12 carries for 46 yards and one touchdown.
Lane wasn't alone.
Elijah Sarratt caught six passes for 66 yards, while Matthew Hibner added five receptions for 61 yards. Baltimore finished with 314 receiving yards, giving the coaching staff plenty to evaluate among its young offensive weapons.
That competition will become increasingly important as the Ravens determine how their passing game develops behind their established veterans.
Fagnano completed 22 of 28 passes for 224 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Tyler Huntley added 76 yards on 6-of-7 passing, while Austin Reed completed both of his attempts for 14 yards and added a 14-yard rushing touchdown.
Fagnano's efficiency and poise were particularly encouraging as Baltimore evaluates its quarterback depth.
Baltimore's defense was the biggest winner.
The Ravens held Philadelphia to 159 total yards and 0-for-9 on third down. Baltimore also recorded three sacks and forced two turnovers.
For Minter, seeing the defense play fast, physical and disciplined without relying on the team's biggest stars was an excellent opening statement.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway is how many young players gave Baltimore something to think about.
The Ravens rested most of their projected starters but still controlled the game from start to finish. Players such as Lane, Sarratt, Hibner, Fagnano, and linebacker/defensive prospects helped Baltimore establish the depth every team needs over a long NFL season.
It is only one preseason game, but the Ravens gave Minter a strong first impression. The next challenge will be determining which of these young players can turn Saturday night's performances into legitimate roster spots and roles.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens dominate Eagles 24-7 in Jesse Minter’s preseason debut: Takeaways
Continue reading...
The final score matters little in the preseason, but several individual performances provided legitimate reasons for optimism.
Here are the biggest takeaways from the preseason opener
UConn rookie shines
Joe Fagnano was 22-of-28 for 223 yards with one TD and one interception.
Ja'Kobi Lane looks ready for the NFL
The rookie wide receiver continued the momentum he built throughout training camp. Lane finished with three catches for 38 yards and a touchdown, including an impressive 18-yard touchdown connection with Joe Fagnano. Lane's ability to attack the football and make contested catches was one of the biggest storylines of camp, and he immediately carried that ability into his first NFL game.
Adam Randall shines
Randall had 12 carries for 46 yards and one touchdown.
Baltimore's young pass catchers made an impact
Lane wasn't alone.
Elijah Sarratt caught six passes for 66 yards, while Matthew Hibner added five receptions for 61 yards. Baltimore finished with 314 receiving yards, giving the coaching staff plenty to evaluate among its young offensive weapons.
That competition will become increasingly important as the Ravens determine how their passing game develops behind their established veterans.
The quarterback depth looked strong
Fagnano completed 22 of 28 passes for 224 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Tyler Huntley added 76 yards on 6-of-7 passing, while Austin Reed completed both of his attempts for 14 yards and added a 14-yard rushing touchdown.
Fagnano's efficiency and poise were particularly encouraging as Baltimore evaluates its quarterback depth.
The defense set the tone
Baltimore's defense was the biggest winner.
The Ravens held Philadelphia to 159 total yards and 0-for-9 on third down. Baltimore also recorded three sacks and forced two turnovers.
For Minter, seeing the defense play fast, physical and disciplined without relying on the team's biggest stars was an excellent opening statement.
Baltimore's depth is becoming a strength
Perhaps the biggest takeaway is how many young players gave Baltimore something to think about.
The Ravens rested most of their projected starters but still controlled the game from start to finish. Players such as Lane, Sarratt, Hibner, Fagnano, and linebacker/defensive prospects helped Baltimore establish the depth every team needs over a long NFL season.
It is only one preseason game, but the Ravens gave Minter a strong first impression. The next challenge will be determining which of these young players can turn Saturday night's performances into legitimate roster spots and roles.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens dominate Eagles 24-7 in Jesse Minter’s preseason debut: Takeaways
Continue reading...
