The fans (and Baltimore Beatdown) have wanted it since the end of game one, and Harbaugh is delivering. Rookie edge rusher Matt Judon is facing off against the Detroit Lions starting offense.
Ravens want to see rookie OLB Matt Judon against starting tackles. With Suggs, Dumervil, ZSmith all likely out Sat, Judon will get that shot
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiecsun) August 25, 2016
Of course John Harbaugh isn’t doing this for the fans benefit, but instead to see if the rookie is just bullying second-stringers or if he’s skilled enough to battle starting lineman.
Through two games Judon has produced two sacks and nine total tackles. Multiple plays he’s blown up blockers that have allowed other defenders to break through. Judon is looking flashier by the day. During training camp Matt was found multiple times breaking through and tackling ball-carriers.
The difference between starters and depth lineman is a great step, so do not be surprised if Judon doesn’t quite continue his sack streak to three games. It also won’t help with the other pass rushers not playing. Not many players can break through double teams, and if Judon is beating his man one-on-one they’ll get a second guy to help, as they can afford to with Terrell Suggs, Elvis Dumervil and Za’Darius Smith all not expecting to play on Saturday.