Ravens Struggle as AFC North Surprises Emerge in NFL Week 4

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Heading into Week 4 of the NFL season, the Baltimore Ravens find themselves grappling with significant challenges. After a rocky start, including a prime-time loss to the Detroit Lions, the team is 1-2, and questions about their defense abound.

On Monday night, the Ravens allowed 224 rushing yards, struggling to contain the Lions both on the ground and in the air. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr faces criticism as his unit ranks at the bottom of the league in multiple categories, including yards allowed per game.

“What’s happened has happened,” Orr said. “There’s nothing we can change about it. Adversity’s going to hit. Unfortunately, it’s hit us again, but what are we going to do about it?”

Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals are also underperforming. They rank last in the league with just 2.4 yards per carry, a drastic fall for an offense that had high hopes this season, particularly due to Joe Burrow’s injury affecting the team’s strategy.

“We all got to take that on the chin and be a lot better,” Bengals center Ted Karras stated after their loss to the Minnesota Vikings. “I think a lot of guys feel that way.”

Star running back Chase Brown has struggled to find any momentum, averaging negative yards before contact this season. His performance and that of the entire offensive line have come under scrutiny from both fans and coaching staff.

As for the Ravens, Derrick Henry’s performance has drawn attention after he fumbled in crucial moments for three consecutive games. He expressed frustration over his turnover issues, emphasizing the need to rectify them before facing the Kansas City Chiefs.

“I’m working as hard as I can to get this issue resolved. It’s tough right now,” Henry said. “I’m my own worst critic.”

Looking ahead, the Ravens face a challenging match against the Chiefs, who have been struggling in their own right. Harbaugh, however, assured fans that his team would be ready to compete, regardless of their current form.

“Our coaches know what they’re doing, our players know what they’re doing, and we will be out there competing,” Harbaugh stated.