Ravens vs. Texans Halftime: Marcus Williams Injured as Baltimore Leads
A J.K. Dobbins touchdown opened the Baltimore Ravens' scoring for the 2023 season in the first quarter while a standout defensive performance kept the Houston Texans out of the end zone, leading to a 7-6 advantage for Charm City at halftime of their Week 1 showdown.
Ravens (7)
PASSING: Lamar Jackson (7-of-11, 60 yards, 1 INT)
RUSHING: Lamar Jackson (5 carries, 35 yards)
RECEIVING: Zay Flowers (3 rec., 29 yards)
Texans ()
PASSING:
RUSHING:
RECEIVING:
Top Soil For Flowers
The Ravens wasted no time in thrusting Zay Flowers into the proverbial fire, getting him involved both on the ground and through the air. It's none of the long ball prowess that encouraged the purple and black to take him out of Boston College, but his early agility is certainly an encouraging sign. His fellow newcomers have been rather quiet (i.e. one target for Odell Beckham Jr.) with Mark Andrews out, but if the Ravens accomplish one thing on Sunday, they'd certainly be satisfied with assurance that Flowers was the right move.
Passer Rush
Lamar Jackson has certainly gotten a chance to prove that he's healthy, as Houston has certainly provided opportunities for Jackson to scramble. Jackson has responded well to the challenge, showcasing a return of his mobile abilities. Speaking of rushers, Dobbins was offered a happy return by scoring the team's first touchdown of the season, one that has proven sustainable for the time being.
OBD
Beckham opening his Baltimore tenure by channeling his inner Ray Lewis upon his walk out of the tunnel was certainly seen as a choice by some but it proved rather prophetic. The Ravens' defense has shut down Houston's big play opportunities, limiting CJ Stroud to mostly safe short passes, unlike their collegiate companions in College Park. The Ravens have had trouble generating consistent pressure, but they've made their opportunities count: Patrick Queen started his contract year in style with a sack while Odafe Oweh has been credited with two additional pressures.
MARCUS WILLIAMS INJURED
Ravens safety Marcus Williams was taken to the locker room in the second quarter to be evaluated for a shoulder injury. He is questionable to return.
