The
Baltimore Ravens' defense is drawing comparisons to the 2000 edition. The comparison is not completely unwarranted.
In 2000, the Ravens gave up 10.3 points per game, compared to 13 this season. They allowed 66 rushing yards per game, with an average of 2.7 yards per carry. This season, the defense is surrendering 60.6 rushing yards per game, and the same yards per carry. Finally, Baltimore averaged 3.2 takeaways per game in 2000, compared to 3.1 in 2006.
However, one area likely to keep this year's unit from equaling the accomplishments of its legendary predecessor is the secondary. Take a look at Baltimore's pass metrics so far (keep in mind that I track throwaway passes in a separate category):
YPA:
short- 5.1
medium- 9.1
deep- 15.9
total- 7.7
To put the deep pass metrics in perspective, the best secondaries will allow around eight yards per deep pass attempt, while the worst will allow over 15 yards. This means the Ravens' deep pass coverage has been among the worst in the NFL in 2006.
Which player is most responsible for this poor performance? I ran the metrics on
Chris McAlister,
Samari Rolle and
Ed Reed to find out.
for the sake of this thread, I'll just post Ed Reed's metrics...
YPA:
short- 7
medium- 8
deep- 19.9
total- 17.1
KC Joyner, aka The Football Scientist, is a regular contributor to ESPN Insider. His latest book, "Scientific Football 2006," is available for order at his Web site, http://thefootballscientist.com. Here's a 37-page sample of the new book.
