Ravens OC Todd Monken should not take preseason struggles lightly

NFL fans always revert to the “it’s just the preseason” moniker when their favorite team gets blasted during an exhibition game. However, we’ve seen the same consistent problem within the Baltimore Ravens offense throughout all three preseason games. These problems directly relate to offensive coordinator Todd Monken’s execution and scheme.

Firstly, minimum targets have been made towards rookie wide receiver Devontez Walker, who still tends to have an injury. Secondly, countless turnovers on offense indicate that not everyone is in sync throughout the depth chart.

Through 180 total minutes of preseason football , the Ravens failed to produce a game score higher than 17 points and have averaged just 11 first downs per game . Meanwhile, their opponents have averaged 21 first downs a game versus them.

Again, it is endlessly presumptuous to assume that the Ravens will be the same defensive powerhouse from a season ago with key losses on their depth chart. This means their offense will need to be sharp, and we’ve seen everything but sharpness from the reserves, which should be feeding off the leadership of NFL MVP Lamar Jackson and company.

Neither the Green Bay Packers nor the Ravens starters were participatory, so that excuse doesn’t fit as a scapegoat. Monken is responsible for establishing a competitive spirit on offense so the team can carry over into the regular season. So far, things have been a struggle.