Under the spotlight, the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive line took a big step forward in Week 3’s win over the Dallas Cowboys.
The Ravens’ rebuilt offensive line was in the spotlight after two shaky performances in the Ravens’ 0-2 start to the season.
Converted right-keeper Daniel Faalele has been particularly criticized as he has struggled to block in his new position, leading some fans and analysts to call for backup goalkeeper Ben Cleveland to start.
This sparked its own news cycle, as Ravens head coach John Harbaugh had a blunt assessment of Cleveland’s play, leading Cleveland to (politely) defend itself in the media.
Amidst all of this, Faalele has been somewhat unfairly placed in the middle. Faalele is a third-year player adjusting to a new position. While he has struggled, he hasn’t been disastrous either. Some of his mistakes, like a missed block on Maxx Crosby late in the fourth quarter against the Raiders, have come in big moments.
However, Faalele and the Ravens held their ground in Dallas. They didn’t allow a single sack and the Ravens’ running game stepped up, racking up 274 yards and three touchdowns on the ground.
After the match, Jackson came to Faalele’s defense.
“Of course, I saw [the criticism]”, Jackson told reporters. “I see a lot of stuff when they tweet and stuff, but it’s just social media. At the end of the day, [Faalele]He gets paid to do what he’s supposed to do. He gives his all every time. It’s not like he’s trying to screw things up. We all make mistakes on the field.
“But he was decisive for us today. And I want the same people who made him doubt to congratulate him and give him the credit he deserves.”
“He was decisive for us today. I want the same people who doubted him to give him that credit.”
Lamar Jackson congratulates Daniel Faalele on his play today. pic.twitter.com/s1i72SWLMI
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 23, 2024
Ravens coaches have consistently defended their offensive line, saying they believe the unit will improve as the season goes on. It’s an understandable stance, given that it has three new starters and limited reps in the preseason.
However, with the Ravens facing the possibility of an 0-3 record – a record that doesn’t mean much in terms of playoff contention – fans and analysts alike wanted to see some improvement or change before it was too late.
Faalele and Co. intervened at the right time.
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