OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — The Baltimore defense has had its problems this season, but the Ravens always seemed to come up with a big play or turnover when they needed to. Until last weekend, when safety Kyle Hamilton dropped what looked like a certain interception in the waning moments against Cleveland.
The Browns took advantage of that reprieve, scoring the winning touchdown with just under a minute remaining for a 29-24 victory Sunday. Cleveland, which hadn't scored 20 points in a game all season, reached that total before the end of the third quarter and finished with 401 yards. “We're there, and I think we could make more plays.
I know we can,” coach John Harbaugh said Monday. “And I believe our guys are going to do it.” The Ravens (5-3) are allowing 361 yards a game, up from 301 last season.
Baltimore has eight takeaways this season — not a huge number, but some have been particularly timely. An interception by Marlon Humphrey late in the fourth quarter against Cincinnati helped the Ravens force overtime in a game they eventually won . Tampa Bay was also moving the ball well against Baltimore before an interception in the end zone by Humphrey helped the Ravens take control of that game .
A fumble recovery late in the first half against the Browns led to a touchdown for Baltimore, but Sunday's game will be remembered more for the turnovers the Ravens didn't secure. Baltimore has dropped eight interceptions this season according to Pro Football Focus , includin.