Ravens secondary is going to face quite the test against the Packers

Ravens rush linebacker Terrell Suggs celebrates a sack in the fourth quarter against the Miami Dolphins. (Steve Mitchell, Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports / October 6, 2013)

Mike Preston

6:31 p.m. EDT, October 7, 2013

The Ravens had a character win against Miami on Sunday. Because of injuries, they were low on receivers as well as offensive linemen. They were playing in heat and had not won a game on the road this season.

They prevailed.

But there are still problems that need to be addressed. The running game has to get better and the pass protection needs to improve. Maybe the top priority this week is fixing coverage in the secondary, especially stopping big plays.

Against Miami, the Ravens gave up receptions of 49, 46, 30 and 45 yards. That was against Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill. If the Ravens give up those kinds of plays against the Green Bay Packers and quarterback Aaron Rodgers on Sunday, they could get blown out.

Rodgers is the best all around quarterback in the NFL.

"We have a huge, huge game next week with A-Rod coming in," said Ravens rush linebacker Terrell Suggs, "and we're definitely playing against one of the best quarterbacks in the league. We have our hands full again next week."

Rodgers can beat a team as a drop-back passer, but he is also accurate throwing on the run. He has a quick release and no fear.

"We will work hard on the extended coverage where the quarterback scrambles," Ravens John Harbaugh said. "It has always been a big emphasis for us, always will."

Suggs said: "Like I said, we have the Green Bay Packers next week and then we all know who we have after that."

Protecting Jacoby Jones

Receiver Jacoby Jones is expected to practice again this week and Harbaugh didn't hesitate saying he would insert him as the returner if he is healthy even if current returner, Tandon Doss, is playing well.

If Jones returns, it would give the Ravens instant offense as well as help in the field position battle. Jones can turn a game around in a second. Doss has occasional big play ability, but is limited compared to Jones because of Jones' great speed.

"It's the kind of question we have been asking ourselves," said Harbaugh of Jones playing. "It depends on how he looks in practice. If he looks good, we'll put him out there. If not, then we'll have to protect."

Have patience with McKinnie

Left offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie didn't play well against Miami, and there is speculation the Ravens might cut him if Eugene Monroe is ready to start this week.

Patience is suggested here.

McKinnie played poorly, but Miami does have a strong defensive line. Speed and quickness have never been assets of McKinnie. The Ravens should make a decision based on McKinnie's attitude.

If he is sulking and doesn't want to practice once Monroe becomes the starter, then cut him. If not, then keep him on the roster as a backup. McKinnie's experience is invaluable and could be helpful in the postseason.

Right now rookie Rick Wagner would replace Monroe if McKinnie leaves. The kid isn't ready for the speed that comes off the corner yet.

Running game is back?

Comments (2)

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Count Your Blessings at 11:04 AM October 08, 2013

Watch Jimmy Smith closely. He's right there with a receiver, then as soon as the receiver makes a move, Smith is immediately yards from the receiver. It's happened over and over and over...

And how does Ihedigbo allow a receiver to get behind him late in the 4th quarter?

And Graham is not playing nearly as well as he did last year.

Still, the D is better than last year, and with a push up front, along with shutting down the running game, the Ravens, at home, could still beat the Packers. But it's going to take a full team effort, something that eludes the Ravens from time to time. During the playoff run last year, everything came together. That's what needs to happen more and more during 2013.

(And patience for McKinnie? Really?)

Fastynart at 10:38 PM October 07, 2013

Anyone who thinks that the Ravens turned a corner in Miami should have their head examined. They won the game, but it sure wasn't decisive. Green Bay has a better team than Miami and one of the truly "elite" quarterbacks in the game. Jimmy Smith and Ihedigbo can't play like they did last week or this game will be over early. The defense must "bring it". Pressure should be the name of the game next Sunday. If they give Rogers time, they are dead meat. No more lame excuses for not playing Monroe. This baloney about him not knowing the playbook is just that, baloney. McKinnie, as much as it pains me to say it, plays like he is finished. He can't run block and he can't protect Joe's blind side. I don't care if it is Monroe or the Man in the Moon, the Ravens had better get Joe some protection. He took a beating from Miami because of his inept offensive line. No one can absorb that type of punishment week after week and keep playing. The Ravens paid all that money for Joe, they had better pony up some for some guys who can protect their investment.

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