Josh Davis: Ravens could respond to underdog role

Ray Lewis extended his legacy last week, bookending a great team win in trademark Fred Astaire-meets-Nelly fashion. Even better, the Ravens defense as a whole stepped up around their spiritual leader with a huge bend-don't-break game, holding the Indianapolis Colts to field goals in a 24-9 victory.

After a season marred by injuries - where 13 significant defenders missed at least one game - Baltimore's defense has been steadily improving. In the last two months, the squad gave up the forth-fewest total yards per game in the league. Paul Krugger led the late-season resurgence and played the ...