After the Ravens' 30-7 dismantling of the Denver Broncos, the defensive leaders resoundingly applauded coordinator Greg Mattison for his aggressive game plan.

Now comes the hard part: the encore.

This coming stretch will determine whether the defense's resurgence Sunday is a one-game aberration or a sign that the Ravens are back on track. Four of the Ravens' next five opponents have offenses ranked in the top 13 in the NFL: Cincinnati (13th), Indianapolis (fourth), Pittsburgh (sixth) and Green Bay (ninth).

"Our guys are excited about the fact they played against a really effective offense and played well, but we're going to line up against a really effective offense on Sunday," coach John Harbaugh said at his Monday news conference. "Obviously, [the Bengals] are a first-place team with a great quarterback, a physically dominant offensive line, a heck of a running back and a group of receivers that are as good as any in the league. So, that presents a challenge for us."

Outside linebacker Jarret Johnson said the Ravens played more multiple fronts against Denver. Cornerback Domonique Foxworth said the defense blitzed more. And when anyone from the Broncos touched the ball, it seemed like four or five Ravens were swarming around him.