# Ravens' Simpson Shines, Starks Struggles

> Ravens linebacker Trenton Simpson impresses as Malaki Starks struggles in Week 2.
- Title: Ravens' Simpson Shines, Starks Struggles · The Banner
- Summary: Ravens linebacker Trenton Simpson impresses as Malaki Starks struggles in Week 2. Ravens linebacker Trenton Simpson shows strong performance while safety…
- Keywords: trenton simpson, malaki stark, ravens, nfl, week 2, baltimore ravens, defensive line, safeties, news, local, Ravens', Simpson
- Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/sports/ravens-nfl/ravens-cowboys-malaki-starks-trenton-simpson-jovaughn-gwyn-CPKZDM7XZ5H77NUHHKCML546XM
- Author: Jonas Shaffer
- Published: 2026-09-23T14:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: trenton simpson, malaki stark, ravens, nfl, week 2, baltimore ravens, defensive line, safeties, news, local
## Ravens' Week 2 start
Ravens entered Week 2 after a mixed start to the season.
## Jesse Minter's coaching shift
Coach Jesse Minter hired after Week 1 collapse.
## Trenton Simpson's role
Simpson plays 60% of defensive snaps with strong performance.
## Simpson's pass rush success
Simpson has three pressures on nine pass rush snaps.
## Simpson's run stops
Simpson made three run stops including a 2-yard gain play.
## Malaki Starks' early struggles
Starks has fewer than 10 safeties with 50 defensive snaps this season.
## Starks' Week 1 issues
Starks missed tackles on 25-yard gains against Colts.
## Starks' Week 2 problems
Starks missed tackles on 12-yard and 25-yard plays against Saints.
## Starks' fourth-quarter touchdown
Starks failed to cover 21-yard touchdown catch-and-run.
## Gwyn's pass blocking issues
Gwyn allowed five pressures on 73 drop-backs.
## Gwyn's run blocking strength
Gwyn has second-best run blocking grade among centers.
## Gwyn's inexperience impact
Gwyn had no starts and 11 career offensive snaps.
## Gwyn's Week 2 challenges
Gwyn faced pressure from Saints' blitzes in Week 2.
## What's next for Starks
Starks needs improvement in tackling and mental processing.
## Key takeaway

Ravens linebacker Trenton Simpson shows strong performance while safety Malaki Starks faces early-season challenges.