Five takeaways from Ravens’ first half against Vikings

The Baltimore Ravens entered halftime tied 3-3 with the Minnesota Vikings after a first half controlled largely by both defenses following two spirited days of joint practices. Minnesota outgained Baltimore 183-93, but the Ravens prevented the Vikings from reaching the end zone and generated consistent pressure against J.J. McCarthy and Carson Wentz. Here are the biggest first-half takeaways.

Baltimore’s pass rush took control

The Raven.s recorded three sacks and six quarterback hits before halftime. Mike Green registered a sack and generated pressure on consecutive plays, while rookie defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny also brought down Wentz.

Baltimore’s defensive front consistently collapsed the pocket and limited Minnesota to 33 rushing yards on 12 attempts.

The defense recovered from one explosive play

Minnesota’s biggest gain came when McCarthy connected with Tai Felton for 50 yards after Aeneas Peebles narrowly missed a sack. Baltimore responded by stopping the Vikings inside the 5-yard line, with McCarthy missing two potential touchdown throws.

Dominic DeLuca produced multiple run stops, while Chandler Rivers broke up a third-down pass intended for Myles Price.

Baltimore’s offense struggled to establish rhythm

The Ravens managed three first downs, 93 yards and a 1-for-6 conversion rate on third down. Tyler Huntley completed 5 of 8 passes for 63 yards but produced only three points over four possessions.

Baltimore also averaged 2.7 yards per rushing attempt. Jonathan Ward led the backfield with 11 yards on four carries.

Josh Cuevas provided an offensive spark

Cuevas caught two passes for 40 yards, including Baltimore’s first completion, a 23-yard gain from Huntley. The rookie tight end was the Ravens’ leading receiver during an otherwise quiet half.

The center evaluation continued.

Jovaughn Gwyn started and handled the first four possessions before Ethan Pocic entered late in the second quarter. With Danny Pinter expected to miss significant time, every snap matters in the competition to become Baltimore’s starting center.

Tyler Loop provided the Ravens’ only points by converting a 49-yard field goal. Linebacker Jamon Johnson was taken to the locker room on a cart after leaving the field under his own power. His status was not immediately available.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Five takeaways from Ravens’ first half against Vikings