The importance of team chemistry can be just as significant as individual talent when it comes to securing a championship. The Baltimore Ravens’ defense is a prime example of a tightly-knit unit that supports each other both on and off the field.
On November 2, New York Jets linebacker Quincy Williams was declared the AFC Defensive Player of the Month. While Jets fans celebrated this achievement, not everyone agreed with the decision.
Ravens’ star cornerback Marlon Humphrey, in particular, expressed his dissatisfaction with the selection. Humphrey used his Instagram story, which is no longer accessible, to share an image of Williams’ award along with the words “I’m not hating, but someone had 4 interceptions in October…”
Humphrey was referring to Ravens safety Geno Stone, who has been having a remarkable year as he fills in for the injured Marcus Williams. Stone has garnered widespread praise from both his teammates and coaches for his contributions to the defense.
The NFL fined #Lions LB Jack Campbell $14,871 for roughing the passer — a low hit on #Raiders QB Jimmy Garoppolo last week. pic.twitter.com/AsJ2LuSPcD
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 4, 2023
Both the Jets and the Ravens boast formidable defenses, so the controversy might be attributed to a sense of pride within the Ravens’ defense. It’s also possible that Humphrey is merely demonstrating his support and camaraderie with Stone.
In either case, both players present compelling arguments for the award, making it a noteworthy topic for discussion if these two teams were to meet in the playoffs.
Ravens Safety Stone Achieves Uncommon Recognition
As impressive as Williams’ performance was, there is a strong argument, regardless of personal feelings, that Stone should have been named the AFC Defensive Player of the Month.
Humphrey is entirely justified in suggesting that Stone should have been considered for the award (which he likely was). Stone wrapped up his October with another outstanding performance for the Ravens.
During the Ravens’ Week 8 game against the Arizona Cardinals, Stone intercepted his fifth pass of the season, taking the lead in NFL interceptions.
Regarding a separate issue, a fan commented on a tripping incident: “The offensive lineman tripped him… most humans, when tripped, fall… lol how is this even a penalty or a fine.” Another observer, Jeremy Reisman of SB Nation’s Pride of Detroit, noted that Jack Campbell tripped over the left guard’s foot before his roughing the passer penalty. He highlighted the rulebook, which states, “It is not a foul if the defender is blocked (or fouled) into the passer and has no opportunity to avoid him.”
Lions Ramp Up Their Defense
The Lions received acclaim for their performance in the October 30 victory over the Raiders, with head coach Dan Campbell praising their ability to thwart the Raiders’ passing and rushing game.
The Lions limited the Raiders to just 157 total offensive yards, and Garoppolo completed 10 of 21 passes for 126 yards with one interception. The aggressive Lions’ defense also sacked Garoppolo six times, all in the second half.
The win elevated the Lions to a 6-2 record, giving them a two-game lead over the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC North. The Lions were favored to win the division at the beginning of the season for the first time since 1993 and have lived up to expectations so far, largely due to their aggressive defense.
The Lions now have a bye week to rest and prepare for their next game on November 12, where they are projected to have a 59% chance of winning against the Los Angeles Chargers, according to Heavy projections powered by Quarter4.
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