NFL playoffs 2018: Biggest difference-maker for each contender

By Ian Wharton | Dec 19, 2018

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 28: Chicago Bears Wide Receiver Anthony Miller (17) runs after catch in the 1st quarter during an NFL football game between the New York Jets and the Chicago Bears on October 28, 2018, at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Daniel Bartel/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

11 of 11

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – NOVEMBER 25: Outside linebacker Matt Judon #99 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates a sack against the Oakland Raiders during the fourth quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on November 25, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Baltimore Ravens – Matt Judon

Once again the Baltimore Ravens have built a tough, nasty, and physical team that punishes foes into the ground, despite recent overtures across the league to be more offensive-friendly. While rookie quarterback Lamar Jackson continues to lead the offense, it’s been another banner year for the Ravens’ defense. One of their bright young contributors has been edge defender Matt Judon.

Judon’s blossomed into the pass rusher that the Ravens and many college football fans thought former Alabama dynamo Tim Williams would be. The 26-year-old has great size, suddenness, and play strength off the edge, allowing him to be a force in the run game in addition to getting after the quarterback. He’s taken on the second-most edge snaps on the team as he’s beaten out recent investments because of his well-roundedness.

With seven sacks and 42 tackles on the year, Judon’s earned his role through consistency and relentlessness. He’ll play a critical role as a finisher for Baltimore come playoff time as they’re slated to play the New England Patriots at this time. Should that hold, there’s no greater key to victory against the Patriots than hitting Tom Brady as often as possible.

Home/NFL