Ravens Report-Week 16 2009

Last Sunday, the Ravens defeated the Bears, 31-7. Ravens QB Joe Flacco threw a career high four touchdowns. Flacco looked better than I've ever seen him before. Bears QB Jay Cutler threw four interceptions, and added to his league-high in picks. The Bears turned the ball over six times during the game. The Ravens scored first, when Flacco threw to TE Todd Heap for a 7-yard touchdown. The Ravens scored again, a 14-yard Flacco to Heap pass, to take a 14-0 lead into the 2nd quarter. The Bears scored their only touchdown of the game in the second quarter, when WR Earl Bennett returned a punt 49 yards to the end zone. The rest of the scoring was in the third quarter. First, Flacco found WR Demetrius Williams, who made an amazing catch for the touchdown. Flacco's final touchdown pass was 18 yards to WR Derrick Mason, who dove into the end zone to make the score 28-7. The final score of the game was a 40-yard field goal buy Ravens K Billy Cundiff.
Player of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-21/29 for 234 yards, and 4 touchdowns.

Next week, the Ravens take on their bitter rival, the 7-7 Pittsburgh Steelers, in Pittsburgh. A Ravens win eliminates the Steelers from playoff contention. The last time these two teams met, the Ravens beat the Steelers in overtime, 20-17. Last week, Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger threw for a franchise record 503 yards. The Steelers will be without star S Troy Polamalu on Sunday. Without Polamalu, the Steelers are a different and much worse team. They haven't intercepted a pass since Polamalu went down in Week 10. But Ravens S Ed Reed will most likely be out also. Reed is a vital part of the Ravens defense, but I believe that the Ravens defense has learned to succeed without him. The Ravens pass rush has not been very dominating this year, but they might get some sacks against a horrible Steelers offensive line. In another great shootout between these two teams, I have the Ravens winning 27-17.
Suggestion: To beat the Steelers, the Ravens have to play like they have these past two weeks. The Steelers are a much better team than the Lions or Bears. But they still have to play well and with heart.

Key Matchups for Ravens at Steelers
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Steelers Defense Edge: Rice
Ravens Secondary vs. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger Edge: Roethlisberger

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
T Jared Gaither-Foot-DBT
S Ed Reed-Groin-DBT
LB Tavares Gooden-Groin-DBT
DT Justin Bannan-Illness-QST
WR Mark Clayton-Knee-QST
LS Matt Katula-Forearm-QST
C Matt Birk-Neck-PRB
WR Justin Harper-Foot-PRB
TE Todd Heap-Chest-PRB
LB Jarret Johnson-Knee-PRB
DT Haloti Ngata-Ankle-PRB
TE L.J. Smith-Ankle-PRB
WR Kelley Washington-Ankle-PRB

Steelers
Player-Injury-Status
G Chris Kemoeatu-Wrist-OUT
S Troy Polamalu-Knee-OUT
LB James Harrison-Biceps-QST
DE Brett Keisel-Neck-PRB
RB Rashard Mendenhall-Hip-PRB
RB Willie Parker-Knee-PRB
WR Mike Wallace-Knee-PRB
WR Hines Ward-Hamstring-PRB

AFC North Standings
Team W L
Bengals 9 5
Ravens 8 6
Steelers 7 7
Browns 3 11

AFC North Outlook: The Bengals clinch the division with a win over the Chiefs or a Ravens loss. The Ravens clinch a playoff berth with a win, a Jaguars loss to the Patriots, a Broncos loss to the Eagle, a loss by the Jets to the Colts and a Texans win over the Dolphins.
Well, that's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week!

Ravens Report-Week 15 2009

Last Sunday, the Ravens demolished the Detroit Lions, 48-3. The Lions simply gave up, causing this blowout win. The Ravens set a franchise record for total yards and tied the record for most points in a game. Due to a 38-yard Billy Cundiff field goal,the Ravens took a 3-0 lead at the end of the first quarter. Then, QB Joe Flacco extended the Ravens lead when WR Derrick Mason broke a tackle and ran into the end zone for a 62-yard touchdown. The Lions scored next, with a 22-yard field goal by K Jason Hanson. Ravens RB Ray Rice made it 17-3 when he broke loose for a 59-yard touchdown. Billy Cundiff sent the Ravens into halftime with a 20-3 lead after he hit a 25-yard field goal. FB Le'Ron McClain scored next for the Ravens, on a 3-yard run. Protecting the starters, the Ravens began bringing in their backups, such as RB Willis McGahee and QB Troy Smith. McGahee scored from 8 yards to give the Ravens a bigger lead. The Ravens scored once more in the quarter, with another McGahee touchdown, this time from 19 yards. The last score of the game came in the fourth quarter, with a Troy Smith 15-yard run. This game was out of control and was an easy, yet important win.
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Ray Rice-166 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, 53 receiving yards

Next week, the Ravens play their last home game of the season, as they face the 5-8 Chicago Bears. This is another must-win game for the Ravens. The Ravens new playmaker, RB Ray Rice averages 5 yards per carry and leads the team in receptions. The Ravens offense faces a tough test against the ever-effective Bears defense, who is second in the league in forced fumbles. Bears QB Jay Cutler has thrown the most interceptions in the NFL. This could be an opportunity for the struggling Ravens secondary to pick some passes off. The Ravens are the best run defense in the NFL, and will be tested this week against Bears RB Matt Forte. Forte has struggled this year when facing tough defenses. In a snowy game, I have the Ravens improving to 8-6 with a 30-13 win.

Suggestion: The Ravens need to play like they did last week more often. They need to run the ball more, like last year. Giving the ball to Ray Rice, Willis McGahee and Le'Ron McClain seems to be working pretty well right now.

Key Matchups for Ravens vs. Bears
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Bears DT Tommie Harris Edge: Birk
Ravens TE Todd Heap vs. Bears LB Lance Briggs Edge: Briggs
Ravens NT Kelly Gregg vs. Bears C Olin Kreutz Edge: Kreutz
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Bears QB Jay Cutler Edge: Lewis

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
T Jared Gaither-Foot-OUT
WR Mark Clayton-Knee-DBT
S K.J. Gerard-Thigh-QST
LB Tavares Gooden-Groin-QST
LB Jarret Johnson-Knee/Back-QST
DT Haloti Ngata-Ankle-QST
S Ed Reed-Groin/Foot-QST
TE L.J. Smith-Ankle-QST
WR Kelley Washington-Ankle-QST
C Matt Birk-Neck-PRB
WR Derrick Mason-Finger-PRB
LB Terrell Suggs-Knee-PRB

Bears
Player-Injury-Status
WR Devin Hester-Calf-DBT
CB Zach Bowman-Illness-QST
DT Tommie Harris-Knee-QST
T Orlando Pace-Groin-QST
CB Charles Tillman-Back-QST

AFC Outlook: The Jaguars loss to the Colts on Thursday gives the Ravens the second Wild Card spot. If the playoffs started today, the Ravens would be in. The chances of the Ravens winning the division are slim, so we want a Wild Card spot. If we win our next three games, we are in the playoffs.

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week!

Ravens Report-Week 14 2009

Last Monday Night, the Ravens lost to the Packers, 27-14. For the Ravens, this loss basically means they have to win out if they want to make the playoffs. The two teams combined for 310 penalty yards, tied for second most in NFL history. The Ravens made a lot of mistakes throughout the game, and if they could avoided some of them, they could have won this game. The Packers scored first on a 28-yard field goal by Mason Crosby. They then took a 10-0 lead on a 2-yard pass from QB Aaron Rodgers to TE Jermichael Finley. The score was 17-0 at halftime after an 8-yard pass from Rodgers to WR Donald Driver. But the Ravens started hot in the third quarter. They got on the board with a 12-yard pass from QB Joe Flacco to WR Kelley Washington. After a Packers turnover, Ravens RB Willis McGahee ran for a 1-yard touchdown to make it 17-14 at the end of the third quarter. After McGahee's run, he did the Lambeau Leap into a few Ravens fans behind the end zone. The Packers scored on their next drive, a 19-yard pass from Rodgers to Finley. With a second and goal on their next drive, Flacco was picked off on a horrible throw, to seal a Packers win. The Packers would score again, a 32-yard Mason Crosby field goal.
Player of the Game: Packers TE Jermichael Finley-7 catches, 79 yards, two touchdowns

Next week, the Ravens come home to face the 2-10 Detroit Lions. For the Ravens right now, every game is a must-win. Struggling Ravens QB Joe Flacco will look to get back on track against the last-ranked Lions pass defense. The Ravens defense is also struggling, and they will try to catch a break this week against an unorganized Lions offense. Lions QB Matthew Stafford is injured and will not be playing. He will be replaced by veteran QB Daunte Culpepper. I have the Ravens improving to 7-6 with a 31-13 win over the Lions.
Suggestion: What happened to Cam Cameron's fun play-calling? Last year, he was full of exciting surprises. Just because we are in a must-win situation, doesn't mean you can't take any risks.

Key Matchups for Ravens vs. Lions
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Lions LB Larry Foote Edge: Rice
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Lions DT Grady Jackson Edge: Birk
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Lions WR Calvin Johnson Edge: Johnson
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Lions RB Kevin Smith Edge: Lewis

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
WR Mark Clayton-Knee-DBT
G David Hale-Head-DBT
S Ed Reed-Groin/Foot-DBT
TE L.J. Smith-Ankle-DBT
T Jared Gaither-Foot-QST
LB Jarret Johnson-Neck-QST
DT Brandon McKinney-Back-QST
LB Terrell Suggs-Knee-QST
K Billy Cundiff-Head-PRB
QB Joe Flacco-Knee/Hip-PRB

Lions
Player-Injury-Status
TE Casey FitzSimmons-Concussion-OUT
DT Andre Fluellen-Groin-DBT
QB Matthew Stafford-Shoulder-DBT
DT Joe Cohen-Knee-QST
T Daniel Loper-Back-QST
S Louis Delmas-Ankle-PRB
WR Eric Fowler-Knee-PRB
P Nick Haris-Knee-PRB
DT Grady Jackson-Knee-PRB
CB Will James-Neck-PRB
S Kalvin Pearson-Hamstring-PRB
LB Ernie Sims-Hamstring-PRB
DE Dewayne White-Toe-PRB

AFC North Standings
Team W L
Bengals 9 3
Ravens 6 6
Steelers 6 7
Browns 2 11

AFC North Outlook: It is most likely right now that the Bengals will win the division. The Steelers loss Thursday night basically eliminates them from the playoffs. The Ravens need to win the rest of their games to have a chance to make the playoffs.

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week!

Ravens Report-Week 13 2009

Last Sunday night, the Ravens beat the Steelers 20-17 in overtime, to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Ravens started the game with a great opening drive, and it ended with a 2-yard touchdown run by RB Willis McGahee. In the second quarter, the Steelers tied the game up with a 33-yard touchdown pass from QB Dennis Dixon to WR Santonio Holmes. To end the half, the Ravens took the lead with a 10-yard TD pass from QB Joe Flacco to WR Derrick Mason. The only score in the third quarter was a 44-yard field goal by Steelers K Jeff Reed. Late in the fourth quarter, the Steelers took the lead on a 24-yard touchdown run by Dennis Dixon. On the Ravens next drive, K Billy Cundiff tied the game up at 17 with a 24-yard field goal. On the Ravens last drive of the fourth quarter, Billy Cundiff missed a 56-yard field goal that would have won the game, but instead he sent it into overtime. The Steelers got the ball to start the overtime period. On a third down, Dennis Dixon was picked off by rookie LB Paul Kruger, who took the ball into Steelers territory. After running a couple of plays, Cundiff came out and made the game-winning 29-yard field goal.
Player of the Game: Ravens K Billy Cundiff-2 field goals (game-tying and game-winning)

Next Monday night, the Ravens travel to the frozen tundra of Green Bay to face the 7-4 Packers on Monday Night Football. The Packers are coming off a Thanksgiving win over the Lions. In the last meeting between these two teams, the Ravens won at home on Monday Night Football, 48-3, in the largest margin of victory in MNF history. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is the most sacked quarterback in the NFL. Because of this, the Ravens defense has to put a lot of pressure on him and bring him down a lot. But Rodgers is also one of the most pass-happy QBs in the league. The Packers pass offense is one of the best in the league, with WRs Donald Driver and Greg Jennings. Those receivers are big deep threats. Green Bay also has a strong running game, with RB Ryan Grant. The Packers defense has been fierce this year, they lead the league in total defense. This will be an extremely hard game for the Ravens, and I have them pulling out a win, 27-23.
Suggestion: The Ravens defense needs to take advantage of a horrible Packers offensive line. They need to get to Rodgers and bring him down. If he passes, he will go long, and the Ravens could end up losing.

Key Matchups for Ravens at Packers
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Packers CB Charles Woodson Edge: Woodson
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Packers LB A.J. Hawk Edge: Rice
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Packers WR Donald Driver Edge: Driver
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers Edge: Lewis

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
TE L.J. Smith-Ankle-DBT
LB Terrell Suggs-Knee-DBT
S K.J. Gerard-Thigh-QST
S Ed Reed-Ankle/Hip-QST
CB Cary Williams-Thigh-QST
C Matt Birk-Neck-PRB
LB Prescott Burgess-Thigh-PRB
QB Joe Flacco-Ankle-PRB
T Jared Gaither-Illness-PRB
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-PRB
LB Ray Lewis-Foot-PRB
FB Le'Ron McClain-Chest-PRB
DT Haloti Ngata-Ankle-PRB
WR Kelley Washington-Illness-PRB
WR Demetrius Williams-Illness-PRB

Packers
Player-Injury-Status
LB Aaron Kampman-Knee-OUT
LB Jeremy Thompson-Neck-OUT
T T.J. Lang-Concussion-QST
G/T Allan Barbre-Ankle-PRB
LB Brandon Chillar-Hand-PRB
T Chad Clifton-Hamstring-PRB
RB Ryan Grant-Shoulder-PRB
RB Ahman Green-Groin-PRB
FB John Kuhn-Hand-PRB
QB Aaron Rodgers-Ribs-PRB
CB Charles Woodson-Shoulder-PRB

AFC North Standings
Team W L
Bengals 8 3
Ravens 6 5
Steelers 6 5
Browns 1 10

AFC North Outlook: Our chances of winning the division are slim, so now let's hope for one of two Wild Card spots. Basically, we can only lose one more game. If we lose two, it makes it twice as hard to reach the postseason. Some teams we are competing with are the Steelers, Texans, Jaguars, Broncos, and Jets. This week, we really need the Jaguars to lose to the Texans. That would help our playoff run a lot.

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week!

Ravens Report-Week 12 2009

Last week, the Ravens lost to the Indianapolis Colts, 17-15. This was a game that the Ravens could have won and should have won. This was a pivotal loss because both the Steelers and Bengals lost, and it was a good opportunity for the Ravens to gain some ground in the division. The Colts scored on their first drive, when QB Peyton Manning threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to TE Dallas Clark. Then, new Ravens K Billy Cundiff hit a 46-yard field goal. To end the quarter, Cundiff hit again, this time from 44 yards. Cundiff came out again, and gave the Ravens a 9-7 lead on a 38-yard field goal. But the Colts quickly responded, when RB Joseph Addai ran for a 5-yard touchdown. Then Cundiff made a 36-yard field goal, to make it 14-12 at halftime. When he came out again, this time from 30 yards, he missed wide to the right, on a chance for the Ravens to take the lead. Cundiff gave the Ravens the lead later, though, on a 20-yarder. But then out came former Ravens K Matt Stover. Stover hit from 25 yards, to give the Colts the lead back. When the Ravens drove down the field next, they were getting closer to the score and the win. But then, Flacco was picked off by Colts LB Gary Brackett. The Colts were unable to score, and punted the ball away to Ed Reed with less than a minute left on the clock. During Reed's return, he tried to pitch the ball, but he fumbled, and the Colts recovered to win the game.
Other Game Notes: This was not Cundiff's fault. The Ravens had plenty of chances to win. For instance, in the fourth quarter, the Ravens had a first a goal at the one. But they couldn't get in the end zone, and had to settle for a field goal. During the game, Ravens CB Fabian Washington got hurt, and will miss the rest of the season.

Next Sunday, the Ravens face their arch enemy, the 6-4 Pittsburgh Steelers. This game is in Baltimore, and will be shown on national television, on NBC's Sunday Night Football. For the Ravens, this game is a must-win. A loss could be the end of the team's playoff hopes. The Steelers are without a doubt the Ravens' biggest and most fierce rival. Last year, the Steelers ended the Ravens season by beating them in the AFC Championship. The Ravens do have a little bit of an advantage, because the Steelers key defensive player, S Troy Polamalu, won't play. The Steelers are 2-4 without Polamalu this season, and 4-1 with him. Their two wins without him were very close games. But they Ravens are shorthanded on defense too, as LB Terrell Suggs will be out for at least a month. The Ravens struggling secondary will have to be superb on Sunday, as they will face Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger, who is 4th in the NFL in passing. Roethlisberger is expected to play Sunday despite a concussion last week. But still, he won't be completely on his game. If he gets hurt during the game, the Steelers will have to play third-string QB Dennis Dixon, because their backup, Charlie Batch, is also hurt. The Steelers strong run defense will be tested this week when they face Ray Rice and Willis McGahee. In a tough and physical game, and another desperation game for the Ravens, I have the Ravens winning, 26-24.
Suggestion: Again, the Ravens secondary could be vital to the outcome of this game. As I mentioned earlier, Fabian Washington is out for the year. In his absence, the Ravens signed CB Cary Williams. If the Ravens secondary can stop a powerful Steelers pass offense, they can definitely win this game.

Key Matchups for Ravens vs. Steelers
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Steelers NT Casey Hampton Edge: Hampton
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Steelers LB James Farrior Edge: Rice
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Steelers WR Santonio Holmes Edge: Holmes
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall Edge: Lewis

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
LB Terrell Suggs-Knee-DBT
LB Ray Lewis-Foot-QST
S Ed Reed-Foot/Illness-QST
C Matt Birk-Neck-PRB
TE Todd Heap-Chest-PRB
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-PRB
DT Haloti Ngata-Ankle-PRB
TE L.J. Smith-Illness-PRB
Steelers
Player-Injury-Status
QB Charlie Batch-Wrist-OUT
G Chris Komeatu-Knee-OUT
S Troy Polamalu-Knee-OUT
DE Travis Kirschke-Calf-QST
QB Ben Roethlisberger-Head-QST
RB Willie Parker-Hip-PRB

AFC North Standings
Team W L
Bengals 7 3
Steelers 6 4
Ravens 5 5
Browns 1 9
AFC North Outlook: We might as well let the Bengals run away with the division and hope for a Wild Card spot. If the Ravens win Sunday, there hopes of a Wild Card spot go up.
Correction: Ben Roethlisberger is OUT for Sunday's game.

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week!

Ravens Report-Week 11 2009

Last week, the Ravens beat the Browns on Monday Night Football, 16-0. On the opening kickoff, Ravens S Haruki Nakamura broke his ankle. Later in the week, he was placed on Injured Reserve, ending his season. Also in the game, Ravens LB Terrell Suggs was hurt on a low block by Browns QB Brady Quinn. Quinn was later fined for the play. In the first quarter, the Ravens put together a solid drive, and it lead to a 36-yard field goal from K Steve Hauschka. But Hauschka missed, his fourth miss of the year. After a scoreless first half, the Ravens finally got on the board, when RB Ray Rice found the end zone for a 13-yard run. On the Browns next drive, Brady Quinn was intercepted by Dawan Landry, and Landry took it 48 yards to the end zone. But, Hauschka's extra point was blocked, to make it 13-0. The final points of the game were on a 44-yard Hauschka field goal.
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Ray Rice-89 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown

Next Sunday, the Ravens will host the 9-0 Indianapolis Colts. This game is the long-awaited return of Former Ravens K Matt Stover. Stover signed with the Colts after their K Adam Vinatieri, went down with an injury. These two teams met last year in Indy, and the Colts trampled the Ravens, 31-3. The Colts are one of two undefeated teams in the NFL, along with the Saints. Their offense, lead by QB Peyton Manning, is considered one of the best ever. Manning is great at using all of his receivers, expect him to do that a lot against the struggling Ravens secondary. If the Colts can take advantage of the Ravens secondary, they could have an easy win. This will be an extremely tough game for the Ravens, and they will need to be on their game if they want to win. Ravens Offensive Coordinator Cam Cameron will have to pull some tricks out of the book to confuse the Colts defense. In a tough game for the Ravens, I have the Colts winning 34-21.
Suggestion: The Ravens cannot fool around at all on Sunday. They will need to play as hard as possible to win this game. The Colts are a very tough team on all fours, and the Ravens need to find a way to stop them.

Key Matchups for Ravens vs. Colts
Ravens RT Michael Oher vs. Colts DE Dwight Freeney Edge: Freeney
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Colts LB Gary Brackett Edge: Rice
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Colts WR Reggie Wayne Edge: Wayne
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Colts RB Joseph Addai Edge: Lewis

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
RB Matt Lawrence-Knee-OUT
LB Terrell Suggs-Knee-OUT
TE Todd Heap-Chest-QST
DT Haloti Ngata-Ankle-QST
C Matt Birk-Neck-PRB
QB Joe Flacco-Knee-PRB
LB Tavares Gooden-Head-PRB
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-PRB

Colts
Player-Injury-Status
OT Dan Fedrkeil-Concussion-OUT
DB Aaron Francisco-Ankle-OUT
WR Anthony Gonzalez-Knee-OUT
DB Kelvin Hayden-Knee-OUT
K Adam Vinatieri-Knee-OUT
DB Antoine Bethea-Foot-QST
DT Eric Foster-Back-QST
DE Dwight Freeney-Hip-QST
WR Pierre Garcon-Ankle-QST
TE Gijon Robinson-Concussion-QST
QB Jim Sorgi-Shoulder-QST
WR Hank Baskett-Illness-PRB
LS Justin Snow-Elbow-PRB

AFC North Standings

Team W L
Bengals 7 2
Steelers 6 3
Ravens 5 4
Browns 1 8

AFC North Outlook: The Steelers face the Chiefs in Kansas City, and the Bengals play the Raiders in Oakland. The Ravens could fall to three games back if they lose and the Bengals and Steelers win.

Ravens Notes: Last Tuesday, the Ravens released K Steven Hauschka, after missing four field goals. Then, on Wednesday, they signed veteran K Billy Cundiff, who will kick Sunday against the Colts. Cundiff has played for the Cowboys, Packers, Browns, Lions, and many more teams.

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week!

Ravens Report-Week 10 2009

Last Sunday, the Ravens lost to the Cincinnati Bengals, 17-7, and fell to 4-4. The Ravens played poorly on all fours, and did not deserve to win the game. The Bengals got on the board quickly, when QB Carson Palmer found WR Andre Caldwell in the end zone for a 6-yard touchdown. On the Bengals next drive, they scored again, this time a 1-yard run by RB Cedric Benson. The Bengals took a 17-0 lead at halftime after a 23-yard Shayne Graham field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Ravens scored on a 2-yard touchdown run by Ray Rice. Then, the Ravens had a chance to make it a one possession game when Steven Hauschka missed 38-yard field goal, which, in a way, gave the Bengals the win. This win gives the Bengals the season sweep of the Ravens.
Player of the Game: Bengals RB Cedric Benson-117 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown

Next week, the Ravens play on Monday Night Football in Cleveland, against the 1-7 Browns. In Week 3, the Ravens beat the Browns at home, 34-3. In that game, the Browns starting QB Brady Quinn was replaced by Derek Anderson, but Quinn will start again Monday night. Browns RB Jamal Lewis is facing his former team for the last time in his career, as he announced his retirement a few weeks ago, effective at the end of the season. Ravens S Ed Reed loves playing the Browns, he has 8 interceptions against them in his career. Struggling Ravens QB Joe Flacco needs to get his game back, and it should be easy this week, because the Browns defense is ranked last in the NFL. Ravens RB Ray Rice is having a break-out season. He is averaging 126 yards per game, and is second in the NFL in yards from scrimmage. The struggling Ravens defense should get back on track Monday, the Browns offense is ranked 31st in the NFL. I have the Ravens winning, 31-10.
Suggestion: The Ravens, as a whole, need to step it up. Last year, it looked more like they were playing relaxed and having fun, but this year, the play-calling has been more conservative, and the plays have not been working that well. This team needs to play like the did last year if they want to return to the playoffs.

Key Matchups for Ravens at Browns
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Browns DT Shaun Rogers Edge: Rogers
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Browns WR Josh Cribbs Edge: Foxworth

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
RB Matt Lawrence-Knee-QST
DT Haloti Ngata-Ankle-QST
CB Lardarius Webb-Illness-QST
CB Chris Carr-Illness-PRB
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Illness-PRB
T Jared Gaither-Neck-PRB
TE Todd Heap-Ankle-PRB
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-PRB
LB Ray Lewis-Foot-PRB
S Haruki Nakamura-Chest-PRB
S Ed Reed-Wrist-PRB
CB Fabian Washington-Thigh-PRB
WR Kelley Washington-Back-PRB

Browns
Player-Injury-Status
TE Michael Gaines-Hamstring-QST
OL Rex Hadnot-Knee-QST
TE Steve Heiden-Knee-QST
RB Jamal Lewis-Ankle-QST
WR Chansi Stuckey-Calf-QST
FB Lawrence Vickers-Hamstring-QST
P Dave Zastudil-Knee-QST
LB David Bowens-Knee-PRB
OL Hank Fraley-Knee-PRB
DL Coye Francies-Knee-PRB
OL Alex Mack-Wrist-PRB
TE Robert Royal-Finger-PRB

AFC North Standings
Team W L
Bengals 7 2
Steelers 6 3
Ravens 4 4
Browns 1 7

AFC North Outlook: The Bengals beat the Steelers Sunday, and took first place alone. This is a good thing for the Ravens because it means the Ravens can get closer to second place. The Ravens will not play the Bengals the rest of the year, but they play the Steelers twice.

During the Ravens games, you can check out my new blog, http://ravensgameday.blogspot.com/, in which you can listen to my thoughts as the game goes on. Updates are made after every quarter.

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week!

Ravens Report-Week 9 2009

Last week, the Ravens beat the previously undefeated Denver Broncos, 30-7, and improved to 4-3. The Ravens got on the board first, with K Steve Hauschka hitting a 43-yard field goal. Then, Hauschka made it 6-0 at halftime, with a 35-yard field goal. On the opening kickoff of the second half, Ravens rookie KR Lardarius Webb returned it 95 yards for a touchdown. But Denver answered, with a 1-yard touchdown run by RB Knowshon Moreno. Next, Hauschka hit again, this time from 31 yards. The Ravens lead 16-7 heading into the fourth quarter. The Ravens got back on the board, with QB Joe Flacco finding WR Derrick Mason for a 20-yard touchdown. And, to put the seal on the deal, Ravens RB Ray Rice found the end zone for a 7-yard TD run. The Ravens defense stepped up to the plate, shutting down a tough Broncos offense, to get the win.
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Ray Rice-84 rushing yards, 24 receiving yards, 1 rushing touchdown

Next Sunday, the Ravens travel to Cinncinati to face the 5-2 Bengals. Back in Week 5, the Bengals beat the Ravens in Baltimore, 17-14, on a late touchdown. In that game, the Ravens defense had trouble stopping the Bengals offense, equipped with QB Carson Palmer, RB Cedric Benson, and WRs Chad Ochocinco and Chris Henry. The Bengals have been nicknamed "the Cardiac Cats," this year, because they keep winning close games. This is a huge game for the Ravens, as a loss means they are two games back in the division. I have the Ravens winning this week, 34-28.
Suggestion: The Ravens must resemble last week's performance against Denver, meaning the defense must step up once again. If they can do that, they can win the game.

Key Matchups for Ravens at Bengals
Ravens QB Joe Flacco vs. Bengals FS Chris Crocker Edge: Flacco
Ravens LT Jared Gaither vs. Bengals DE Robert Geathers Edge: Geathers
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Bengals QB Carson Palmer Edge: Lewis
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco Edge: Ochocinco

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
S Haruki Nakamura-Chest-QST
DT Haloti Ngata-Ankle-QST
S Tom Zbikowski-Illness-QST
LB Prescott Burgess-Illness-PRB
TE Todd Heap-Ankle-PRB
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-PRB
LS Matt Katula-Elbow-PRB
FB Le'Ron McClain-Shoulder-PRB
CB Frank Walker-Illness-PRB

Bengals
Player-Injury-Status
OT Andre Smith-Foot-QST
S Roy Williams-Forearm-QST
FB Jeremi Johnson-Knee-PRB
DT Tank Johnson-Foot-PRB
S Tom Nelson-Shoulder-PRB
RB Bernard Scott-Knee-PRB

AFC North Standings
Team W L
Bengals 5 2
Steelers 5 2
Ravens 4 3
Browns 1 7

AFC North Outlook: With a Ravens win, they automatically are in first place, but not alone. If the Ravens win, the are tied with the Bengals. If the Steelers beat the Broncos on Monday Night Football and the Ravens win, they are alone in first place. If the Bengals and Steelers win, they are tied for the division lead. If the Ravens win and the Steelers lose, all three are tied. If the Ravens and Steelers lose, the Bengals are alone in first place.

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week!

Ravens Report-Week 8 2009

Two weeks ago in Minnesota, the Ravens lost to the Minnesota Vikings, 33-31, and fell to 3-3. The Vikings started off hot, when QB Brett Favre found TE Visanthe Shiancoe for a 19-yard touchdown. Next, Favre found WR Bernard Berrian for a 4-yard touchdown to make it 14-0. In the only score of the 2nd quarter, Ravens K Steve Hauschka hit a 29-yard field goal, making the score 14-3 at the end of the first half. Then, Vikings K Ryan Longwell hit a 40-yard field goal. The Ravens then made it a one possession game on a 22-yard touchdown run by RB Ray Rice. But then the Vikings made it 20-10 on a 22-yard chip shot by Longwell. The Vikings then made it a three possession game when Favre found Shiancoe again, this time from one yard. But the Ravens then mounted a huge 4th quarter comeback. First, QB Joe Flacco found WR Mark Clayton for a 32-yard touchdown pass. The Vikings responded with a 29-yard field goal by Longwell. Then the Ravens proved that the game wasn't over, when Flacco found WR Derrick Mason for a 12-yard touchdown. Then the Ravens took the lead, when Ray Rice ran for a 33-yard touchdown. Now there was only 3 and a half minutes left in the game. But the Vikings drove down the field, and took a 33-31 lead. The Ravens marched down the field quickly, and had a chance to win the game, with Steve Hauschka attempting a 43-yard field goal. But Hauschka's kick went wide left, and the Vikings survived a collapse.
Player of the Game: Vikings RB Adrian Peterson-143 rushing yards
The Ravens then had their bye week.
This Sunday, the Ravens face off against the 6-0 Denver Broncos at home. Both teams are coming off a bye week. The Ravens losing this game could be detrimental to their season, because they are already one and a half games behind the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers in the division. A loss could be threatening to them making the playoffs. The Ravens defense must stop the Broncos strong offense. Broncos QB Kyle Orton has one of the best targets in the NFL, WR Brandon Marshall. The Ravens struggling secondary needs to be able to shut down Marshall if they want to win this game. Another one of Orton's targets is former Ravens WR Brandon Stokley. Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth faces his former team. The Ravens defense also needs to put more pressure on Orton, making him make passes quickly. The Broncos defense is tops in the AFC, lead by LB Elvis Dumervil and veteran S Brian Dawkins. The Broncos defense has given up an astounding 10 points combined this year in the second half. In a desperation game, I have the Ravens winning, 31-20.

Suggestion: I cannot stress this enough. The Ravens secondary has got to get it together. They are currently ranked 23rd in the NFL in pass defense. This week they face a very tough wide receiving core, and need to step it up if they want a win.

Key Matchups for Ravens vs. Broncos
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Broncos LB Elvis Dumervil Edge: Rice
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Broncos CB Champ Bailey Edge: Bailey
Ravens DE Haloti Ngata vs. Broncos LT Ryan Clady Edge: Ngata
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Broncos WR Brandon Marshall Edge: Marshall

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
T Jared Gaither-Neck-QST
QB Joe Flacco-Ankle-PRB
K Steve Hauschka-Ankle-PRB
LB Tavares Gooden-Head-PRB
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-PRB
S Ed Reed-Illness-PRB
WR David Tyree-Hamstring-PRB

Broncos
Player-Injury-Status
DL Ronald Fields-Hamstring-PRB
S Brian Dawkins-Hamstring-PRB
ILB/FB Spencer Larsen-Shoulder-PRB

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week!

Ravens Report-Week 6 2009

Last Sunday, the Ravens suffered an embarrassing 17-14 loss to the Bengals. This moves the Ravens to 3-2 on the season. This was truly a sad game to watch. The Ravens were playing without any heart, and this loss will definitely come back to hurt them later this year. After a scoreless first quarter, Ravens S Ed Reed picked off Bengals QB Carson Palmer and returned it 52 yards for a touchdown. Before halftime, Bengals K Shayne Graham made a 32-yard field goal to make it 7-3. The Bengals then took the lead on a 28-yard touchdown run by RB Cedric Benson. But the Ravens responded, when QB Joe Flacco dumped off a pass to RB Ray Rice, who ran 48 yards for a touchdown. But in the last minute of the game, Carson Palmer found WR Andre Caldwell in the end zone for a game-clinching 20 yard touchdown pass. On the Bengals game-winning drive, the Ravens committed three stupid penalties, which moved the Bengals farther and farther down the field. These penalties ultimately cost the Ravens the game. Cedric Benson ran for 120 yards, the first time in 39 games that the Ravens defense allowed a 100-yard rusher. The Ravens rushed much more than they passed last week, and the rushing game didn't work. I think that the main reason for this was because they were missing T Jared Gaither, a great offensive lineman for pass rushing. Maybe the Ravens were scared that without Gaither, the Bengals defense would get to Joe Flacco easier.
Player of the Game: Bengals RB Cedric Benson-128 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, 2 catches, 16 receiving yards.

Next week, the Ravens face a very tough team, the 5-0 Minnesota Vikings, in Minnesota. First-year Ravens C Matt Birk faces his former team. The Ravens have won two of the three meetings against the Vikings. Lead by veteran QB Brett Favre, the Vikings are off to a hot start. Favre is one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history, but this is the first time he has started a season 5-0. The Vikings also have one of the best RBs in the NFL, Adrian Peterson. The Ravens need to stop Peterson in order to win this game. The Vikings pass rush, lead by DE Jared Allen, leads the NFL with 18 sacks. That means that the Ravens offensive line will have to step it up. That will be tough, because they will probably be without Jared Gaither.
Unfortunately, I have the Ravens falling to 3-3, with a 28-20 loss.
Suggestion: The Ravens secondary has been absolutely horrible this year. CBs Fabian Washington and Dominique Foxworth have been unable to cover WRs. If they keep this up, the Ravens will not be able to beat tough opponents.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Vikings
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Vikings NT Pat Williams Edge: Birk
Ravens RT Michael Oher vs. Vikings RE Jared Allen Edge: Allen
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Vikings CB Antoine Winfield Edge: Mason
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Vikings QB Brett Favre Edge: Lewis
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs vs. Vikings RB Adrian Peterson Edge: Peterson
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Vikings WR Bernard Berrian Edge: Berrian

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
T Jared Gaither-Neck-DBT
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-PRB
TE Edgar Jones-Hamstring-PRB
DT Haloti Ngata-Back-PRB
WR David Tyree-Hamstring-PRB
WR Mark Clayton-Shoulder-PRB

Vikings
Player-Injury-Status
WR Darius Reynald-Hamstring-DBT
WR Percy Harvin-Shoulder-QST
T Phil Loadholt-Ankle-QST
DE Rey Edwards-Hamstring-PRB
CB Cedric Griffin-Hand-PRB
G Steve Hutchinson-Back-PRB
FB Naufahu Tahi-Ankle-PRB

Ravens Info: This week, the Ravens signed WR David Tyree to a 2-year deal. Tyree is best known for an amazing catch in Super Bowl XLII that lead to a Giants win.

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week.

Ravens Report-Week 5 2009

Last week, the Ravens suffered their first loss of the season, 27-21, to the Patriots. After an early Pats field goal, Ravens QB Joe Flacco found WR Derrick Mason in the end zone for a 20-yard touchdown. Then, in the second quarter, the Pats took a lead on a 1-yard touchdown run by QB Tom Brady. The Patriots were up 17-7 at halftime after a 12-yard touchdown by RB Sammy Morris. In the third quarter, the Ravens made it a one possession game when LB Terrell Suggs forced a fumble that was recovered in the end zone by DE Dwan Edwards. But the Pats got back on the board on a 14-yard pass from Brady to WR Randy Moss. Then Ravens made it 24-21 on a 13-yard pass from Flacco to RB Willis McGahee. After a Pats field goal, the Ravens had a chance to win the game on their final drive. On a 4th and 2 at the Patriots 15, Flacco threw to WR Mark Clayton, who dropped the ball, ending the game.
Player of the Game: Patriots QB Tom Brady-258 passing yards, 1 passing touchdown, 5 rushes, 11 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown
Other Notes: Ravens LB Branden Ayanbadejo is out for the season after suffering an injury in this game.

Next Sunday, the Ravens welcome the 3-1 Cincinnati Bengals to Baltimore. These two teams are tied for the AFC North lead, which means the winner takes sole possession of first place in the division. After losing the first game of the year, the Bengals have won three consecutive games. Last season, the Ravens won both games against the Bengals. Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis was the Ravens defensive coordinator for their Super Bowl win. The Bengals were struck with tragedy this week, when the wife of their defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer, unexpectedly died. Zimmer is still expected to coach on Sunday. Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco said earlier this week that he has already planned a touchdown celebration for Sunday. The dance is from the Will Ferrell movie, "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby". Bengals QB Carson Palmer has been extremely clutch this year for Cincinnati. But Palmer has a huge test this week, against one of the top defenses in the league, the Ravens. Palmer will have to take advantage of the Ravens struggling pass defense. The Ravens defense is the best in the NFL in stopping the run, but have a tough test this week against Cedric Benson, who is the NFL's fourth leading rusher. In a very tough game, I have the Ravens winning, 31-20.
Suggestion: The Ravens secondary really needs to step it up. Last week, Patriots WR Randy Moss was basically wide open in the end zone for his touchdown, as the CB defending him, Dominique Foxworth, was a few yards off of him. That can't happen this week against Bengals star WR, Chad Ochocinco.
Key Matchups for Ravens vs. Bengals
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Bengals CB Leon Hall Edge: Mason
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Bengals DT Robert Geathers Edge: Birk
Ravens CB Dominique Foxworth vs. Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco Edge: Ochocinco
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
T Jared Gaither-Neck-QST
CB Chris Carr-Groin-PRB
LB Tavares Gooden-Shoulder-PRB
LB Jarret Johnston-Shoulder-PRB
WR Derrick Mason-Neck-PRB
DT Haloti Ngata-Back-PRB
S Ed Reed-Knee-PRB
WR Demetrius Williams-Illness-PRB
Bengals
Player-Injury-Status
LB Rashad Jeanty-Finger-OUT
OT Andre Smith-Foot-OUT
S Kyries Hebert-Hip-QST
DT Tank Johnson-Foot-QST
S Chinedum Nduukwe-Hamstring-QST
RB Cedric Benson-Hip-PRB
CB David Jones-Foot-PRB
LB Rey Maualuga-Knee-PRB
DT Domata Peko-Chest-PRB
S Roy Williams-Forearm-PRB
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report. See you next week!

Ravens Report-Week 4 2009

Last week, the Ravens improved to 3-0 for the second time in team history with a 34-3 win over the Browns. Ravens QB Joe Flacco threw for a career-high 342 yards. The Ravens got on the board first when RB Willis McGahee found the end zone for a 7-yard touchdown. The Ravens took a 10-0 lead into the second quarter after a 36-yard field goal from K Steven Hauschka. After another field goal from Hauschka, McGahee scored again, this time from 15 yards, to give the Ravens a 20-0 lead at halftime. Then, the Browns benched starting QB Brady Quinn for former Ravens QB Derek Anderson. The only score of the third quarter was a 9-yard run by Ravens RB Ray Rice. Then, in the fourth quarter, the Browns got on the board with a 29-yard field goal from K Billy Cundiff. To end the game, Flacco found WR Derrick Mason for a 72-yard touchdown.
Player of the Game: Ravens WR Derrick Mason-5 receptions, 118 yards, 1 touchdown
Next Sunday, the Ravens head to Foxborough to face the 2-1 New England Patriots. The Ravens have never beaten the Pats. These two teams met in Baltimore on Monday Night Football two years ago, when the Patriots barely held on for a 27-24 win. In two games in New England, the Ravens have scored a combined six points. The Pats offense is lead by star QB Tom Brady. Brady missed last season with a knee injury, and is yet to return to form. At running back, the carries are split between Fred Taylor and Laurence Maroney. Patriots WR Wes Welker is 50/50 for Sunday's game, and hasn't played since Week 1. The Patriots defense is likely to be without two of their stars, DT Vince Wilfork, and LB Jerod Mayo. The Ravens have scored the most points in the AFC, and are second in the NFL with 34.3 points per game. The Ravens defense will try to resemble what the Jets did to the Patriots in Week 2, when they shut down the passing game. Jets head coach Rex Ryan was the defensive coordinator for the Ravens from 2005 to 2008. In a nail-biter, I have the Ravens winning, 31-27.
Suggestion: On Sunday, the Ravens need to blitz, blitz, blitz. They need to put pressure on Tom Brady, make him make a pass he doesn't want to make.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Patriots
Ravens RB Willis McGahee vs. Patriots LB Adalius Thomas Edge: McGahee
Ravens WR Mark Clayton vs. Patriots CB Shawn Springs Edge: Springs
Ravens RG Chris Chester vs. Patriots DT Vince Wilfork/Ty Warren Edge: Wilfork/Warren
Ravens NT Kelly Gregg vs. Patriots C Dan Koppen Edge: Gregg
Ravens CB Fabian Washington vs. Patriots WR Randy Moss Edge: Moss
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Patriots RB Fred Taylor Edge: Lewis
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
LB Taveres Gooden-Shoulder/Head-QST
WR Derrick Mason-Illness-QST
QB Troy Smith-Illness-QST
DT Justin Bannan-Knee-PRB
LB Antwan Barnes-Shoulder-PRB
TE Todd Heap-Back-PRB
LB Ray Lewis-Head-PRB
DE Trevor Pryce-Illness-PRB
WR Kelley Washington-Groin-PRB
Patriots
Player-Injury-Status
LB Jerod Mayo-Knee-DBT
T Nick Kaczur-Ankle-QST
WR Wes Welker-Knee-QST
DT Vince Wilfork-Ankle-QST
QB Tom Brady-Shoulder-PRB
CB Leigh Bodden-Thigh-PRB
RB Laurence Maroney-Thigh-PRB
DT Mike Wright-Shoulder-PRB
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report. See ya next week.

Ravens Report-Week 3 2009

Last Sunday, the Ravens beat the host Chargers, 31-26. The Chargers got on the board quickly, as QB Phillip Rivers completed a screen to RB Darren Sproles, who ran 81 yards for a touchdown. But the Ravens answered when RB Willis McGahee ran 5 yards for a touchdown. Then, Chargers K Nate Kaeding hit a 29-yard field goal to give the Chargers a 10-7 lead at the end of the first quarter. Next, McGahee found the end zone again, this time 3 yards, to give the Ravens their first lead of the game. Kaeding then hit another field goal, this time from 22 yards, making it a one point Ravens lead. The Ravens answered again, as QB Joe Flacco found wide open WR Kelley Washington for a 27-yard touchdown. Kaeding would hit another field goal at the end of the half to make the score 21-16 Ravens. In the third quarter, Flacco found TE Todd Heap for a 9 yard touchdown. Then, Phillip Rivers hit WR Vincent Jackson for a 35-yard touchdown, to get the Chargers back in the game. To make it a two-point game, Kaeding hit his fourth field goal of the game, this time from 25 yards, to make it 28-26 Ravens. On the Ravens next drive, K Steve Hauschka hit what was eventually the game-winning field goal, from 33 yards. The Chargers needed a touchdown to win it. On a huge fourth and two, deep in Ravens territory, Darren Sproles got the hand-off, but Ravens LB Ray Lewis read the play, and tackled him behind the line to seal a Ravens win. The Ravens key point to success in this game was the fact that they shut the Chargers down in the red zone, as you can see by Nate Kaeding's field goal's, all from 20-yard range.
Player of the Game: Ravens LB Ray Lewis-10 tackles, 1 forced fumble, game-winning tackle

Next week, the Ravens take on the 0-2 Cleveland Browns at home. The Ravens defense needs to take advantage of a weak Browns offense, lead by inexperienced QB Brady Quinn. The Browns defense is also not impressive, and the Ravens offense, which seems to be improving week by week, will have to go at them strong. Through the first two weeks of the season, the Ravens offense leads the AFC in both yards per game and points per game. The Browns defense has given up the most points than any other team in the AFC. The Browns secondary usually does a good job of preventing the long ball, which means that Joe Flacco will have to thrown short often. TE Todd Heap should be a good target on Sunday. Last week, the Ravens did not do a good job on special teams of stopping KR Darren Sproles. This week, they face an even tougher KR, Joshua Cribbs. The Browns could get their only touchdown next week on special teams. In an absolute route, I have the Ravens improving to 3-0, with a 41-16 win.
Suggestion: The Ravens secondary has not been very successful this year, and that has to change. They need to play tighter, and ultimately, better.

Key Matchups for Ravens vs. Browns
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Browns DT Shaun Rogers Edge: Rogers
Ravens RB Willis McGahee vs. Browns LB D'Qwell Jackson Edge: McGahee
Ravens WR Mark Clayton vs. Browns CB Brandon McDonald Edge: Clayton
Ravens DT Haloti Ngata vs. Browns LT Joe Thomas Edge: Ngata
Ravens CB Dominuque Foxworth vs. Browns WR Joshua Cribbs Edge: Cribbs
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs vs. Browns QB Brady Quinn Edge: Suggs

Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-QST
S Ed Reed-Neck-QST
TE L.J. Smith-Hamstring-QST
DT Justin Bannan-Knee-PRB
OT Jared Gaither-Illness-PRB
S Tom Zbikowski-Concussion-PRB
CB Fabian Washington-Illness-PRB

Browns
Player-Injury-Status
RB Jamal Lewis-Hamstring-DBT
OL Floyd Womack-Ankle-DBT
LB David Bowens-Knee-QST
K Phil Dawson-Calf-QST
DT Shaun Rogers-Foot-QST
RB James Davis-Shoulder-PRB
WR Mohamed Massaquoi-Shoulder-PRB
RB Cedric Peerman-Thigh-PRB
DL Ahtyba Rubin-Toe-PRB
P Dave Zastudil-Knee-PRB
OL Alex Mack-Knee-PRB
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week.

Ravens Report-Week 2

Last Sunday, the Ravens defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, 38-24, in the season opener. This was a career-best game for second-year Ravens QB Joe Flacco. Flacco threw for a career-high 307 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 43 attempts. RB Ray Rice ran for 107 yards, and RB Willis McGahee ran for 44 yards, a touchdown, and a receiving touchdown. The Ravens set a team-record with 501 total yards. The Ravens got on the board first with a 44-yard field goal by K Steve Hauschka. Later in the first quarter, the Ravens extended their lead to 10-0 on a three yard touchdown pass from Flacco to McGahee. But then the Chiefs brought the Ravens crowd to a silence when Chiefs LB Jon McGraw blocked a punt and recovered it in the end zone to make it 10-7. That score remained at halftime. But in the third quarter, the Chiefs took the lead on a 2 yard touchdown pass from QB Brodie Croyle to WR Dwayne Bowe. The lead didn't last long, as on the Ravens next drive, Flacco found TE Todd Heap for a 9-yard touchdown to make it 17-14 to end the third quarter. In the fourth, the Chiefs tied the game at 17 on a 53-yard field goal by rookie K Ryan Succop. The Ravens then took another lead, on a 1-yard touchdown from FB Le'Ron McClain. Next, the Chiefs showed that they were not giving up yet, tying the game up again, this time on a 10 yard pass from Croyle to TE Sean Ryan. But the Ravens were determined to win, and on their next drive, Flacco found WR Mark Clayton for a 31-yard touchdown, giving the Ravens a 31-24 lead with just over three minutes left. On the Chiefs next drive, they fumbled the ball, giving the Ravens great field position late in the game. Willis McGahee later scored to seal a Ravens victory. The Ravens suprised everybody on Sunday with the amount of passing they did. Last season, the Ravens run percentage was the highest in the NFL. But Sunday, they passed 42 times.
Player of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-26/43, 307 yards, 3 touchdowns

Next week, the Ravens travel to San Diego to face the Chargers. The Ravens new aerial attack could be in full effect against a average Chargers secondary. The Chargers are very tough at home, as they are 20-4 there since 2006. In the last meeting between these two teams, the Chargers blew past the Ravens in San Diego, 32-14, back in 2006. This Sunday, the Chargers will be lead offensively by QB Phillip Rivers. Rivers is 22-5 at home in the NFL and in his college days at NC State. Last season, Rivers was the best QB in the NFL stat-wise. The Chargers star RB, LaDainian Tomlinson, is out for Sunday's game with an ankle injury in last week's win over the Raiders. Tomlinson's replacement will be the versatile Darren Sproles. Last week, the Chargers defense allowed 148 rushing yards, and the Ravens piled up 198 last week on the grund, so both the pass and rush game could beat the Chargers defense up pretty badly. Mainly because of this, I have the Ravens winning, 24-20.
Suggestion: As I said earlier, the Ravens passed many more times than people thought they would and that they did last season. At one point in the game last week, Flacco, probably from fatigue, just looked very off, and was overthrowing a lot. Even though passing a lot meant more yards and more points, I think Flacco needs to be more gradually placed in the role of throwing 40 passes a game.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Chargers
Ravens OT Michael Oher vs. Chargers DE Luis Castillo Edge: Castillo
Ravens TE Todd Heap vs. Chargers LB Shawne Merriman Edge: Merriman
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Chargers CB Antonio Cromartie Edge: Mason
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Chargers RB Darren Sproles Edge: Lewis
Ravens CB Fabian Washington vs. Chargers WR Vincent Jackson Edge: Jackson
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs vs. Chargers TE Antonio Gates Edge: Suggs

Injury Report
Ravens

Player-Injury-Status
S Tom Zbikowski-Concussion-DBT
TE L.J. Smith-Hamstring-QST
LB Tavares Gooden-Knee-PRB
LB Jarret Johnson-Shoulder-PRB
S Ed Reed-Concussion-PRB
LB Terrell Suggs-Concussion/Chest-PRB

Chargers
Player-Injury-Status
C Nick Hardwick-Ankle-OUT
LB LaDainian Tomlinson-Ankle-OUT
DE Travis Johnson-Groin-OUT
LB Antwan Applewhite-Hamstring-QST
G Louis Vasquez-Knee-QST
DT Jamal Williams-Elbow-QST
T Marcus McNeill-Hand-PRB
P Mike Scifries-Groin-PRB

That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week.

Ravens Report-Week 1 2009

Hello, and welcome to the 2009-2010 Baltimore Ravens football season, and to my yearly Ravens Report.
Key offseason additons: WR Kelley Washington, C Matt Birk, CB Domonique Foxworth

Key offseason departures: C Jason Brown, LB Bart Scott, CB Chris McAlister, S Jim Leonhard, K Matt Stover, Defensive Coordinator Rex Ryan

Draft Picks:
Round 1: OT Michael Oher, Mississippi
Round 2: DE Paul Kruger, Utah
Round 3: CB Lardarius Webb, Nicholls State
Round 5: LB Jason Phillips, Texas Christian
Round 5: TE Davon Drew, East Carolina, cut during Training Camp
Round 6: RB Cedric Peerman, Virginia, cut during Training Camp
The Ravens finished up a perfect preseason last week with a win against the Atlanta Falcons. Some people take a perfect preseason as a means to a great year ahead. But that is not it at all. The Detroit Lions completed a perfect preseason last year, and went on to go 0-16. So don't take this perfect preseason as a blessing.

In Week 1, the Ravens are home at M@T Bank Stadium to face the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs have both a new coach and a new quarterback. Their new head coach, Todd Haley, was the offensive coordinator last year for the NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals. New quarterback Matt Cassel started last year for the Patriots after Tom Brady's season ending injury. But Cassel was injured during the preseason, and is a game-time decision for Sunday afternoon's game. If Cassel cannot play, the quarterback will either be Tyler Thigpen or Brodie Croyle. The Chiefs main playmaker on offense is WR Dwayne Bowe. Bowe is one of the most underrated wide recievers in the NFL. If Bowe had more talent surrounding him, he would no doubt be one of the best WRs in the league. The Chiefs are not expected to be successful at all this season, so the Ravens are favored to win. I have the Ravens winning, 31-13.
Suggestion: Despite losing key defensive personnel during the off-season, the Ravens defense is still one of the top in the NFL. The Ravens will need to show that on Sunday. If the Ravens cannot stop the Chiefs unorganized offense, it could be a long year.
Key Matchups for Ravens vs. Chiefs
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Chiefs CB Brandon Carr Edge: Mason
Ravens RT Michael Oher vs. Chiefs RE Glenn Dorsey Edge: Dorsey
Ravens RB Willis McGahee vs. Chiefs LB Mike Vrabel Edge: McGahee
Ravens CB Fabian Washington vs. Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe Edge: Bowe
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Chiefs RB Larry Johnson Edge: Lewis
Ravens DE Trevor Pryce vs. Chiefs RG Mike Goff Edge: Pryce

Injury Report
Ravens

Player-Injury-Status
TE L.J. Smith-Hamstring-DBT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Knee-QST
LB Brandon Ayanbadejo-Foot-PRB
DE Haloti Ngata-Foot-PRB

Chiefs
Player-Injury-Status
QB Matt Cassel-Knee-QST
WR Terrance Copper-Hamstring-QST
CB Brandon Flowers-Shoulder-QST

PRB-Probable
QST-Questionable
DBT-Doubtful

Well that's it for this week's addition of my Ravens Report, see ya next week.

Ravens Report-AFC Championship

Ravens Report
Last Saturday, the Ravens defeated the Tennessee Titans, 13-10, to advance to the AFC Championship Game. The Titans got on the board first when RB Chris Johnson ran for an 8-yard touchdown. But the Ravens quickly responded when QB Joe Flacco fired a 48-yard touchdown strike to WR Derrick Mason. The game went into halftime tied at 7. After a scoreless third quarter, Ravens K Matt Stover hit a 21-yard field goal to give the Ravens their first lead of the game, 10-7. But the Titans tied the game at 10 when K Rob Bironas hit a 27-yard field goal with 4:26 left in the game. Then, on the Ravens next drive, Matt Stover hit a 43-yard field goal with: 57 seconds left in the game to give the Ravens a 13-10 lead. When the Titans got the ball back, the Ravens forced an incomplete pass on fourth down to give the Ravens the win.
Other Game Notes: The Titans committed 12 penalties, accounting for 89 yards. The Ravens forced three turnovers, and didn’t turn the ball over once. The Titans had more total yards, first downs, and time of possession than the Ravens did. Titans RB Chris Johnson left the game for good after a second quarter injury.
Player of the Game: Ravens K Matt Stover-2 field goals, 1 extra point, the game-winning field goal.
Next Sunday, the Ravens face division rival Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh. The winner of this game earns a spot in the Super Bowl against the winner of the game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Arizona Cardinals. Last week, the Steelers defeated the San Diego Chargers, 35-24. This is the third time that these teams meet this season, the Steelers won both regular season matchups, by a combined 7 points. Steelers LB James Harrison won the AP Defensive Player of the Year Award for his work this season. Over the past 10 years, these defenses are 1st and 2nd in cumulative total defense. Ravens QB Joe Flacco has not been sacked or intercepted yet this postseason. Flacco is also the first rookie QB to win 2 playoff games. The matchup between these two teams is arguably the biggest and most anticipated game ever played between the Ravens and Steelers. In a hard-hitting and physical game, I have the Steelers winning, 17-14.
Suggestion: The Ravens have not executed very well in the red zone this year. In this game, the Ravens will need to get in the end zone when in the red zone, and not settle for just a field goal.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Steelers
Ravens C Jason Brown vs. Steelers DT Casey Hampton Edge: Hampton
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Steelers CB Ike Taylor Edge: Mason
Ravens QB Joe Flacco vs. Steelers LB James Harrison Edge: Harrison
Ravens RE Trevor Pryce vs. Steelers RT Willie Colon Edge: Pryce
Ravens CB Fabian Washington vs. Steelers WR Hines Ward Edge: Ward
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger Edge: Reed
Injury Report
Ravens
Player Injury Status
LB Antwan Barnes Chest OUT
CB Samari Rolle Thigh DBT
DT Justin Bannan Foot QST
WR Mark Clayton Thigh QST
TE Todd Heap Back QST
LB Jarret Johnson Calf QST
WR Derrick Mason Knee QST
FB Le’Ron McClain Ankle QST
LB Terrell Suggs Shoulder QST
LB Ray Lewis Shoulder PRB
FB Lorenzo Neal Shoulder PRB
S Ed Reed Knee PRB
Steelers
Player Injury Status
C Justin Hartwig Knee PRB
S Troy Palamalu Calf PRB
Well, that’s it for this week’s version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week, let’s go kick the Steelers’s butts!

Ravens Report-Divisonal Playoffs

Ravens Report
Last week, the Ravens defeated the Miami Dolphins, 27-9. This is the first playoff win for the Ravens since 2002. The Dolphins got on the board first, when K Dan Carpenter hit a 19-yard field goal. Then, Ravens K Matt Stover tied the game at 3 on a 23-yard field goal. Then the Ravens took the lead for good when S Ed Reed intercepted Dolphins QB Chad Pennington and ran 64 yards into the end zone for a touchdown. The Ravens had a 13-3 lead at halftime after a 31-yard field goal from Stover. Next, Ravens RB Le’Ron McClain ran for an 8-yard touchdown to make the score 20-3. Then, the Dolphins got back on the board on a 2-yard touchdown pass from Pennington to RB Ronnie Brown (the extra point was blocked). To put the ice on the cake, Ravens QB Joe Flacco ran for a five yard touchdown.
Other Game Notes: Ravens S Ed Reed had two interceptions, making his total 11 on the season. The Ravens forced 5 turnovers, which turned into 14 points, while only turning the ball over once.
Player of the Game: Ravens S Ed Reed- 1 tackle, two interceptions, 1 interception for a touchdown
Next Saturday, the Ravens will face the 13-3 Tennessee Titans in Tennessee. The Titans beat the Ravens, 13-10, in Baltimore, back in Week 5. The Titans are the top seed in the AFC. This is a matchup of two of the best defenses in the NFL. The Titans defense ranks 2nd in the NFL in points per game, and the Ravens are 2nd in the NFL in yards per game. Titans QB Kerry Collins was the quarterback for the New York Giants when the Ravens beat the Giants in the Super Bowl, so expect Collins to want some revenge. The Titans will be playing without Pro Bowl C Kevin Mawae, which is big for the Ravens defense. History could be on the Ravens side. Back in the Ravens Super Bowl year, the 6th seeded Ravens beat the 1st seeded Titans, in Tennessee. In a great defensive battle, I have the Titans winning, 23-17.
Suggestion: The Ravens defense needs to stop the Titans rushing attack. Rookie Chris Johnson and LenDale White combine for 137.4 rushing yards a game. If the Ravens defense can’t stop White and Johnson, it will be a long day for the Ravens.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Titans
Ravens C Jason Brown vs. Titans DT Albert Haynesworth Edge: Haynesworth
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Titans CB Cortland Finnegan Edge: Mason
Ravens RB Le’Ron McClain vs. Titans LB Keith Bullock Edge: Bullock
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs vs. Titans TE Bo Scaife Edge: Suggs
Ravens CB Samari Rolle vs. Titans WR Justin Gage Edge: Gage
Ravens DT Trevor Pryce vs. Titans RG Jake Scott Edge: Pryce
Injury Report
Ravens
Player Injury Status
LB Antwan Barnes Chest OUT
DT Justin Bannan Foot QST
TE Todd Heap Back QST
LB Jarret Johnson Calf QST
WR Derrick Mason Shoulder QST
S Ed Reed Knee/Illness QST
CB Samari Rolle Thigh QST
K Matt Stover Right Ankle QST
CB Fabian Washington Neck QST
Titans
Player Injury Status
DE David Ball Back OUT
C Kevin Mawae Elbow OUT
S Tuff Harris Calf QST
CB Nick Harper Groin PRB
DT Albert Haynesworth Knee PRB
TE Bo Scaife Illness PRB
LB David Thornton Hip PRB
DE Kyle Vanden Bosh Groin PRB
Well, that’s it for this week’s version of my Ravens Report, see ya next week, let’s go kick the Titans’s butts!

Ravens Report-Wild Card Playoffs

Ravens Report
Last Sunday, the Ravens defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars, 27-7. With this victory, the Ravens clinch a spot in the playoffs. The Ravens took an early 3-0 lead on a 32-yard field goal by K Matt Stover. Then, the Jaguars took a 7-3 lead on a 23-yard touchdown pass from QB David Garrard to RB Alvin Pearman. Then, the Ravens took a 10-7 lead on a 5-yard touchdown run by RB Le’Ron McClain. Next, the Ravens took a 17-7 lead on a 13-yard touchdown run by RB Willis McGahee. After that, Le’Ron McClain gave the Ravens a 24-7 lead on a 1-yard touchdown run. Matt Stover made it 27-7 on a 41-yard field goal.
Other Game Notes: Ravens QB Joe Flacco threw for a career high 297 yards. Ed Reed intercepted two passes, he had 9 interceptions on the season, leading the NFL.
Player of the Game: Ravens LB Ray Lewis- 5 tackles, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries.
Next Sunday, the Ravens face the 11-5 Miami Dolphins in Miami. The Ravens beat the Dolphins, 27-13, in Miami back in Week 7. The Ravens last postseason win was back in 2002, against the Dolphins. Ravens QB Joe Flacco will have to watch out for Dolphins LB Joey Porter, who was 2nd in the NFL in sacks during the regular season. In a very tough and physical game, I have the Ravens advancing to the AFC Divisional Playoffs with a 34-17 victory over the Dolphins.
Suggestion: The Ravens offensive line must stop the Dolphins blitz lead by LB Joey Porter. Porter, the former Pittsburgh Steeler, lead the AFC in sacks with 18. If Porter can get to Joe Flacco, it could be a long day for the Ravens.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Dolphins

Ravens FB Lorenzo Neal vs. Dolphins LB Joey Porter Edge: Porter

Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Dolphins CB Will Allen Edge: Mason

Ravens RT Willie Anderson vs. Dolphins RE Vonnie Holliday Edge: Holliday

Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown Edge: Brown
Ravens LE Justin Bannan vs. Dolphins LT Jake Long Edge: Bannan
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Dolphins WR Ted Ginn, Jr. Edge: Reed
Injury Report
Ravens
Player Injury Status
DT Justin Bannan Foot QST
LB Antwan Barnes Shoulder QST
G Chris Chester Back QST
WR Mark Clayton Knee QST
TE Todd Heap Back QST
LB Jarret Johnson Calf QST
WR Derrick Mason Shoulder QST
S Ed Reed Thigh QST
RB Ray Rice Lower Leg QST
CB Samari Rolle Ankle/Foot QST
CB Fabian Washington Toe QST
S Tom Zbikowski Thigh PRB



Dolphins

Player Injury Status

TE David Martin Head/Neck QST

DE Randy Starks Ankle QST


AFC Playoff Bracket



#6 Ravens #1 Titans

#3 Dolphins




#5 Colts #2 Steelers

#4 Chargers



AFC Playoff Situations: The Titans and Steelers have a first round bye. After the first
round, the lowest remaining seed plays the Titans, and the other winning team faces the
Steelers.