Ravens vs. Vikings Week 10: Aeneas Peebles Inactive Again
The Baltimore Ravens have announced six healthy scratches for their Week 10 match against the Minnesota Vikings. Among those inactive players is rookie defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles, marking his fourth consecutive game out of the lineup. In his absence, the Ravens have opted for Taven Bryan, a practice squad elevation.
Aeneas Peebles and Ravens’ Defense Strategy
Aeneas Peebles has shown potential earlier this season but has not been part of the team’s game plan lately. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr indicated a need for “bigger bodies” to improve the team’s run defense. The Ravens struggled significantly during the first five games, conceding an average of 146.5 rushing yards per game.
However, in the subsequent three games, they have managed to reduce this average to 85.7 rushing yards per game. This improvement can be attributed to several factors, including:
- The return of linebacker Roquan Smith from a hamstring injury.
- The strategic use of safety Kyle Hamilton in a nickel/star role closer to the line of scrimmage.
- Strong performances by defensive tackle Travis Jones and rookie linebacker Teddye Buchanan.
Ravens’ Inactive Player List
The Ravens’ decision to deactivate Peebles brings into focus their roster strategy. Here’s the full list of inactive Ravens players:
- Defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles
- Running back Rasheen Ali
- Offensive tackle Joseph Noteboom
- Offensive lineman Emery Jones
- Wide receiver Devontez Walker
- Quarterback Cooper Rush
Notably, Rasheen Ali is a healthy scratch for the first time this season. The Ravens have chosen to activate Keaton Mitchell over Ali. Offensive tackle Joseph Noteboom has been replaced by rookie Carson Vinson, who has yet to take a snap this year. This shift comes as starting left tackle Ronnie Stanley continues to recover from an ankle injury.
Vikings’ Inactive Players
The Minnesota Vikings will also be without key players for this matchup. Notable inactive members include:
- Starting safety Theo Jackson
- Tight end Josh Oliver
Josh Oliver, a former Raven, has emerged as a solid run-blocker but will miss this game against his old team. His absence might provide the Ravens with an advantage in slowing down the Vikings’ run game.
As the Ravens look to capitalize on their recent defensive improvements, the strategy and decisions surrounding player selections will play a crucial role in their performance against the Vikings this week.
