Imagine a defense suddenly regaining two of its most formidable weapons just in time to face one of the NFL's most explosive offenses. That's exactly what happened for the Baltimore Ravens this Thursday.
In a significant boost to their lineup, Pro Bowl cornerback Marlon Humphrey and fullback Patrick Ricard returned to practice, signaling a much-needed strengthening of the team. Humphrey, sidelined with a calf injury, practiced for the first time this week, while Ricard, also dealing with a calf issue, made his first appearance since August 14. Their return couldn't come at a better time, as the Ravens prepare to host the high-octane Los Angeles Rams this Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium.
But here's where it gets even more intriguing: the Rams' offense is no ordinary challenge. Led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, who currently tops the NFL in passing yards with 1,503 through five weeks, the Rams boast two of the league's most dangerous receivers. Puka Nacua leads the NFL in receptions (52) and receiving yards (588), while Davante Adams, a six-time Pro Bowler, has already racked up 22 catches, 357 yards, and three touchdowns. Can the Ravens' secondary, even with Humphrey back, contain this firepower?
And this is the part most people miss: while Humphrey's return is undoubtedly a game-changer, the Ravens still have key players on the sidelines. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, linebacker Roquan Smith, and cornerback Chidobe Awuzie—all nursing hamstring injuries—remained out of practice on Thursday, as did offensive lineman Ben Cleveland, a new addition to the injury list. Their absence raises questions about the team's overall readiness for such a formidable opponent.
Humphrey's absence was felt keenly in the Ravens' 44-10 Week 5 loss to the Houston Texans, where C.J. Stroud threw four touchdown passes. His return is expected to stabilize a secondary that will be tested like never before against the Rams.
Meanwhile, Ricard, one of the league's premier blockers and a linchpin of the Ravens' rushing attack, has yet to play this season. Head Coach John Harbaugh expressed optimism on Monday, stating, 'We're looking at the [Chicago] Bears game [Week 8], that's the one I'm hoping for. He is, too. We'll see.' Ricard's potential return after the Week 7 bye could further bolster the Ravens' ground game, which has been a cornerstone of their offensive strategy.
But here's the controversial question: Is it too little, too late? With the Rams' offense firing on all cylinders and the Ravens still missing key players, can Baltimore truly compete at full strength? Or will Stafford and his receivers exploit any lingering weaknesses in the Ravens' defense?
What do you think? Will Humphrey and Ricard's return be enough to turn the tide for the Ravens, or will the Rams' offense prove too much to handle? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let's spark a debate!
