A cubist-style painting depicting a football game, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of purple, black, navy blue, and red.Awuzie’s return bolsters the Ravens’ secondary as they prepare for a crucial clash with the Patriots.Cincinnati Today

Ravens cornerback Chidobe Awuzie has returned to practice after suffering a foot injury last week, providing a major boost to the team’s defense ahead of their crucial Week 16 showdown against the New England Patriots. Awuzie has been a standout performer for the Ravens this season, ranking as the fifth-highest graded cornerback in the NFL according to Pro Football Focus.

Why it matters

Awuzie’s return is significant for the Ravens as they look to solidify their playoff positioning. His elite-level play has been a key factor in the team’s success this year, and his presence will be crucial against a talented Patriots offense led by quarterback Mac Jones.

The details

In 12 games this season, with five starts, Awuzie has recorded seven pass breakups and 35 tackles. His shutdown coverage abilities will be needed to slow down the Patriots’ passing attack. The Ravens are also getting healthier overall, with left tackle Ronnie Stanley, center Tyler Linderbaum, and outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy all returning to practice in a limited capacity.

Awuzie suffered the foot injury in the Ravens’ game against the Cincinnati Bengals last week.He returned to practice on Friday, just in time for the crucial Week 16 matchup against the Patriots.

The players

Chidobe Awuzie

A cornerback for the Baltimore Ravens who has been a standout performer this season, ranking as the fifth-highest graded cornerback in the NFL according to Pro Football Focus.

Ronnie Stanley

The Ravens’ starting left tackle, who was limited in practice on Thursday due to a knee/ankle injury but returned to the field on Friday.

Tyler Linderbaum

The Ravens’ starting center, who was also limited in practice on Thursday due to a knee injury but returned on Friday.

Kyle Van Noy

The Ravens’ starting outside linebacker, who was limited in practice on Thursday due to a quad injury but returned on Friday.

Trenton Simpson

A linebacker who will step up to fill the role of rookie Teddye Buchanan, who suffered a season-ending knee injury.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Ravens will need Awuzie to be at his best as they take on the Patriots in a crucial Week 16 matchup that could have major playoff implications.

The takeaway

Awuzie’s return is a significant boost for the Ravens’ defense, which has been a key factor in the team’s success this season. His elite-level play will be crucial as the Ravens look to solidify their playoff positioning down the stretch.