The Baltimore Ravens are coming off a dominant Week 2 victory, dismantling the Cleveland Browns 41-17, and now set their sights on a primetime clash with the Detroit Lions.
Despite the strong win, the Ravens’ defense is facing some early-season concerns, most notably with standout defensive tackle and two-time Pro Bowler Nnamdi Madubuike.
Madubuike’s status was already in doubt after missing both Thursday and Friday practices with a neck issue, and on Saturday, head coach John Harbaugh officially ruled him out of Monday night’s game.
The loss is significant, as Madubuike has been one of Baltimore’s most productive defenders through two weeks. His stat line includes seven tackles, two team-leading sacks, two tackles for loss, three quarterback hits, four pressures, a hurry, and a knockdown. Pro Football Focus currently grades him at 73.5 overall, placing him 22nd among 160 eligible defensive linemen.
With Madubuike sidelined, the Ravens will turn to rookie Aeneas Peebles, a sixth-round pick in this year’s draft. The rookie has contributed minimally so far, recording just one tackle and a single pass breakup, making the drop-off in experience and production quite evident.
That poses a real challenge for Baltimore’s defense as they prepare to face one of the league’s top offenses. Through two games, Detroit sits fifth in total yards per game (378.5) and third in scoring (32.5 points per game).
For the Ravens, avoiding a 1-2 start will likely hinge on whether Peebles can step up under the bright lights of Monday Night Football. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET at M&T Bank Stadium, with the game broadcast nationally on ABC and ESPN.
