I won't summarize what I observed while watching yesterday's game between the Ravens (3-1) and the Steelers (3-1) however the resilient Ravens' run defense rebounded exceptionally well after last week's disgraceful outing against the Cleveland Browns.
Rashard Mendenhall averaged 110 rushing yards per game before yesterday's 1pm home game. Many including myself believed that Mendenhall would gash the Ravens for long runs and make it easier for his quarterback to throw with the play action pass. This was only the case during the Steelers' first drive when a well-executed play action pass set up a deep, 40 yard completion to Antwan Randel-El.
Mendenhall finished a relatively quiet day with 79 yards, significantly less than his 143 rushing yard total of the 38-13 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Considering his recent success he posed a serious threat to the Ravens defense. He was capable of taking over the game, converting consecutive first downs and sustaining drives but he didn't.
Of course, had it not been for the Ravens' final storybook winning drive this would be a different story however the defense accepted the challenge presented and stopped the run in a fashion reminiscent of days during there 39 game streak of not allowing 100 yard rusher.
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