The Arizona Cardinals and Baltimore Ravens kick off at 10 a.m. this morning in Week 2. The Cardinals hope to get their first win of the season and the Ravens hope to win in their home opener.
As we get ready for the game this morning, here are some interesting stats about both teams to know. They include some stats from last season, as this year is only one game old. These stats come from Inside Edge.
Fourth-quarter defense?
The Cardinals have had it. Since 2017, the Cardinals have forced three-and-outs on 29.8 percent of opponent drives in the fourth quarter. That is the best in the NFL. The league average is 18.9 percent.
Crabtree and the dropsies
Cardinals receiver Michael Crabtree leads the NFL in drops since last season with nine. He played for the Ravens last season.
The Cardinals take care of the ball in the red zone. Since last season, they have not turned over the ball in the red zone.
Bad offense
The second and third quarters have been bad for the Cardinals on offense. Dating back to last season, they have gone three-and-out 20 times in the second quarter and 18 times in the third quarter. Both are the most in the league in that time.
Up the middle
Ravens RB Gus Edwards produces up the middle. Since 2017, he averages 5.8 yards per rushing attempt up the middle. That is the best among qualifying running backs. The league average is 3.9 yards per attempt.
Disappearing RB production
The Ravens have a vaunted rushing attack. However, the running backs have an interesting stat. Dating back to last season, Baltimore running backs have not had a rushing touchdown in close and late-game situations.
No red zone INTs
Dating back to last season, the Cardinals defense has not had an interception in the red zone.
They have to tackle better
You know one reason why the Cardinals were so bad in run defense last year? This stat is telling. Dating back to last season, the Cardinals have allowed 1,138 yards after contact. That will not bode well against the Ravens if it continues.
Good field position
The Ravens have given their offense very good field position. Since 2017, the offense has begun a drive in opposing territory 43 times. That is the second-highest total in the league.
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