NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) gets introduced prior to the game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens will have a bit of a different look up front, but the defense will still be deadly. Everything begins with the tandem at outside linebacker of Terrell Suggs and Elvis Dumervil. Last year, they combined for 29 sacks, the most of any two teammates in 2014. Dumervil was the more dominant of the two, getting to the quarterback 17 times.

Baltimore had some cap issues in the offseason, forcing it to trade longtime defensive tackle Haloti Ngata to the Detroit Lions for a pair of mid-round draft picks. However, the Ravens have a couple of studs ready to replace him with Brandon Williams and Timmy Jernigan. Baltimore should have no problem stuffing the run with inside linebackers Daryl Smith and C.J. Mosley behind them.

If there is any weakness, it is most certainly in the passing game. Can Jimmy Smith finally become a top-flight corner? And can Lardarius Webb find his form of a couple years ago and start to shut down receivers in man coverage again? The safeties leave plenty to be desired with Kendrick Lewis and Will Hill, but the pass-rush should cover for much of these problems.

Next: 5. St. Louis Rams

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