It’s the question that has been on my mind for the bulk of the season. This Baltimore defense has been historically good at stages in 2023. At times, we have actually seen side-by-side graphics comparing their metrics with the 2000 defense. Although they are no longer on that pace 12 games into the season, just consider how complete this group still is:
2nd in total defense
3rd in pass defense
2nd in scoring defense
1st in red zone defense
1st in sacks
Even the other areas where they aren’t top 5 – like rush defense and third down – they are still in the top 12.