The Baltimore Ravens have struggled to consistently affect opposing quarterbacks, and defensive lineman Nnamdi Madubuike knows the defensive front has to do more. While he believes the group has done a decent job against the run, Madubuike pointed to several areas that need improvement.
The Ravens have to find ways to generate more pressure, finish plays, and improve their tackling as they look to get the defense back to the level expected in Baltimore.
When asked what the defensive front can do to create more pressure on the quarterback, Madubuike made it clear that the improvements need to come across the board.
"[We can improve] in everything [from] stopping the run – we're doing decent in the run [game] – but obviously getting pressure on the quarterback,
getting sacks, getting pressure and tackling. Tackling's been huge, [and] the whole nine [yards]. We're not doing terribly, but we're not doing it to the Ravens standard that we know we can."
Madubuike also explained that the problems aren't necessarily limited to one area of the defense. When reviewing the film, he sees details involving technique, communication and execution that the group needs to clean up.
When asked what stood out on film as the defensive front looks for ways to improve, Madubuike pointed to the importance of being on the same page.
"I would say the details and say the execution [and] techniques. We're running, getting to the crease, picking the hips, covering a guy when he says cover me, communication being all locked in and just being on the same page. So, those are just little things I pick up on film that we can get better at."
The distinction between creating pressure and finishing plays is important for Baltimore. A defender can disrupt the pocket without ending the possession, particularly if the quarterback escapes or finds an available receiver. Madubuike’s emphasis on tackling and communication connects those responsibilities: The rush, pursuit, and coverage have to work together for an initial disruption to become a stop.
The Ravens have dealt with their share of defensive struggles, and Madubuike isn't suggesting there is one quick fix. The defensive front needs to improve its technique, communicate better, and finish plays when opportunities present themselves.
Monday’s matchup offers a chance to turn that discussion into production. Justin Herbert was sacked eight times in the Chargers’ loss to Houston, putting Los Angeles’ protection under additional scrutiny. Baltimore still has to earn those opportunities through its own execution. Maintaining rush lanes, finishing tackles and preventing Herbert from extending plays will matter as much as simply getting into the backfield.
Baltimore has a standard it expects to meet on defense. Madubuike knows the group hasn't consistently reached it, and the upcoming stretch gives the Ravens another chance to show they can play at that level.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Nnamdi Madubuike says Ravens’ defensive front isn’t meeting its standard
