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The Baltimore Ravens again displayed their resiliency under John Harbaugh in Thursday night’s shutout victory over Miami. From the offensive line and receivers to the safeties and special teams, every Baltimore unit played well with their backs against the wall. Jimmy Smith was the best Raven on the field once again.
Pro Football Focus awarded Smith their game ball:
Smith continues to play at an All-Pro level this season. An Achilles injury has nagged Jimmy in recent weeks, yet he still logged the fifth most defensive snaps in Week 8, with 57 plays or 86-percent. Hopefully the Ravens mini bye week will help Smith recover to full strength.
Tailback Alex Collins was the most valuable offensive player against Miami. PFF gave him an 86.1 overall grade and noted almost half of his 113 yards came after contact. Collins is developing into an important piece for Baltimore, both this season and in the future.
PFF also listed center Ryan Jensen, defensive tackle Brandon Williams, safety Tony Jefferson and safety Eric Weddle as standouts on Thursday. The improved safety play is especially encouraging because of their recent struggles. Coordinator Dean Pees called his best game of the season, routinely putting Jefferson and Weddle in position to make plays.
Overall it was an impressive performance from the Ravens. Harbaugh has now won seven of eight games against the Dolphins during his ten year tenure. Baltimore has ten days to rest before traveling to Tennessee for a Week 9 showdown against the Titans.