Ravens vs. Raiders: 1 MVP, 9 Winners, and 1 Loser

Today’s game featured a Baltimore Raven squad with balance on offense and defense. Highlights were produced on both ends, and the game was exciting until the end.

MVP: Joe Flacco

I debated a few players here, but ultimately, the franchise quarterback receives this award. From the first play of the game in which he delivered a strike to Mike Wallace, I felt confident in the Ravens quarterback. In fact, he delivered maybe the best highlight of the game!

Joe Flacco won this game, and made plays when called upon.

Winners:

Ronnie Stanley — Singling him out, because the man played some serious football today. He also did so with a burden on his shoulders, as his hometown suffered tragically from the shooting in Las Vegas. He responded by donating $1,000 for every pass play in which he does not allow a sack, hit, or pressure on Joe Flacco. From my memory, I don’t think he allowed a single one.

Entire Offensive Line — The Ravens line looked more solid than the Raiders today, and that’s including losing yet another interior lineman during the game. Seriously, what an incredible play by all of the big guys.

Mike Wallace — What a game from the wideout. First play of the game was a big strike down the left sideline, and he wasn’t done yet. A couple of big plays, including a 28-yard conversion to help keep the distance from the Raiders sealed this game.

Javorius Allen — Entrusted with 21 carries, and delivering 75 yards on the ground, Buck was a force. Time after time in the fourth quarter, he grinded out a first down which did nothing but continue the Ravens impressive ground game.

Patrick Onwausor — Peanut created the forced fumble in which brought about a Jimmy Smith touchdown, but he also proved he’s the Ravens starting inside linebacker next to C.J. Mosley. He has fought to dethrone Kamalei Correa, and it looks like the coaches have finally given KC enough chances.

Alex Collins — Feels like he’s the Ravens runningback of the future, as he’s better than anything I’ve seen on the team in years. Each play he brings about impressive results.

Vince Mayle — Scored the early touchdown to keep the Ravens focused on scoring and winning this football game early.

Terrell Suggs — Sack number 118 for the veteran, on an absolutely bullying play against Donald Penn.

Jimmy Smith — Injured and not playing often, but in his limited reps he impressed and scored a defensive touchdown! This play put the Ravens up by two scores early, and they’re a team built to keep a lead.

Willie Henry — The big lineman was needed today, with the absence of Brandon Williams and Brent Urban hurting heavily last week. He swallowed up blockers and almost had an interception. He may have found a full-time role where Urban is missed.

Losers:

Reminder — Being a ‘loser’ doesn’t mean they’re a bad player. Bad games happen and this is to be objective of the team and the players.

Whoever had to cover Crabtree — Coming into this game, Michael Crabtree had five touchdowns against the Ravens. He made another one against Brandon Carr, and also beat Marlon Humphrey multiple times.