Ravens vs. Browns final: Stock up, stock down from week 2

Another week, another win for the Ravens as what was meant to be a suffocating defense is starting to live up to that billing. They got the W in a very similar fashion to the first week so another stock up stock down report will have some similar names in similar places.

Stock up: Turnover differential

The CBS broadcast mentioned a number in relation to the Ravens defense: 28. That’s the best turnover margin ever recorded and it’s one that the Ravens D is apparently chasing. They recorded a second five turnover effort and the team’s difference stands at 10-3 (or +7) through two games. This is definitely something to keep an eye on if the team continues to succeed.

Stock down: The running game

Against Cincinnati, the Ravens ran the ball at will. In this game, they showed less of a commitment as well as less of an ability to pound the rock. While they didn’t look bad in week 2, it was a much more average effort compared to the strong week 1 outing. Alex Collins showed some serious promise in this game but will need to clean up the fumbling if the coaches are to become comfortable leaning on him late.

Stock up: Joe Flacco

After a pedestrian return to the lineup in week 1, Flacco looked sharp in week 2 against the Browns. He threw one interception on a miscommunication with Mike Wallace, but distributed the ball well through tight windows. It was great to see him turn things around here after initially coming in with stock down in week 1. An honorable mention that I’ll lump in with Flacco would be Benjamin Watson, who had a huge game. They’ll be very happy to get anything out of him after an injury plagued start in Baltimore.

As the Ravens head to London, they’ll hopefully be able to keep their defensive swagger and ball control offense going. Keep an eye on each of the mentioned factors going forward as they make their first international trip ever.