Ray Lewis is one of the toughest, most feared linebackers in the league. Every time he plays you can expect a solid defensive performance from him. And he's been one of the most durable linebackers in the league as well. It's been nearly four years since he last missed a game.
According to ESPN's Jamison Hensley Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis will be out Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals due to a toe injury. He hasn't even practiced this week and it's currently unknown how long he will be out due to the injury.
This is great news for the Bengals. Without Lewis that Baltimore defense is completely different. It's still a dynamic defense, but it isn't the same without him. He's one of the biggest, if not the biggest enforcer on defense for Baltimore. His replacement is Dannell Ellerbe who has only started four games during his three-year NFL career.
Lewis is always a nuisance on the field. He's the type of linebacker who makes you cringe whenever he tackles an opponent because he absolutely crushes them. But even with Lewis out the Ravens still have Terrell Suggs that the Bengals should worry about. And Bengals receivers are going to have to find ways to beat cornerback Ed Reed.
Despite Lewis not playing, the Bengals will still have to be able to move the ball and put up some points against one of the best defenses in the league. The Bengals have caught a lucky break. It's up to Cincinnati to take advantage of this opportunity if they intend to claw their way back into the win column.
Did I mention Ray Lewis is out Sunday against the Bengals?