The first unit for the Ravens has only scored one touchdown in two preseason games, and that area has been a glaring deficiency with the offense.
Coach John Harbaugh pointed out the lack of big plays in a 27-12 loss to the Detroit Lions on Friday when the Ravens failed to register a touchdown in the entire game.
"The biggest thing is finishing plays, just like we thought after the game. We make a few catches here or there," Harbaugh said Sunday.
That doesn't just go for offense, which was without deep-threat receiver Torrey Smith because of an ankle injury. Linebacker Paul Kruger had a golden opportunity to undercut a throw to Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew near midfield in the first half. Had he caught it cleanly, Kruger might've gone the distance and changed the outcome with that one play.
Without 2011 Defensive Player of the Year Terrell Suggs (Achilles), the Ravens defense really needs to find more playmakers.
"Those make all the difference in the game. We always focus on big plays and turnovers. Those opportunities don't come around often," Kruger said. "That's one of those plays I wish I could have back. ... In the season you're hopefully making those plays. I agree with what coach said. Making those plays are going to determine the outcome of our games.
"Turnovers and touchdowns. That's what it boils down to."