Ravens fans, we are now almost two weeks removed from a Super Bowl victory. We're champions of the whole entire world. It's now time to hand out some awards for this past season.
Team MVP: QB Joe Flacco-3,817 passing yards, 22 passing TDs, 10 INTs, 87.7 passer rating
Reasoning: I get the Ray Rice argument, I really do. But when your team goes to the playoffs, wins the Super Bowl and your quarterback plays the way he did, it is very rarely the direct result of anyone else but the QB.
Unsung Hero: CB Corey Graham-60 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 2 interceptions
Reasoning: Corey Graham shouldn't have even been playing cornerback this year. The special teams ace was thrown onto the defense following injuries, and solidified his spot as a starting corner. His interception in overtime against the Broncos set up the game-winning field goal. Incredible year for Graham.
Rookie of the Year: K Justin Tucker-30/33, 4 game-winning field goals, longest field goal of 56 yards
Reasoning: You can't ask for more out of a rookie kicker. Cutting Billy Cundiff for Tucker will prove huge for the team in the long run.
Honorable Mention for Rookie of the Year: RB Bernard Pierce-532 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown
Reasoning: Bernard Pierce will be a great running back in this league one day. Unfortunately that may not be with the Ravens. He is a talented power back, and is a perfect runner for winter football. He'll be a key post-season asset as long as he's in Baltimore.
Play of the Year: 4th and 29
Reasoning: This was an easy one. Down to their last limb back in Week 12 against the Chargers, the Ravens faced a decisive 4th down and 29 yards. Joe Flacco stepped back, could not find an open man downfield, and dumped the ball down to Ray Rice. Rice cut back upfield, made all 11 Chargers miss, and reached the first down marker. The Ravens would go on to win the game in overtime on a Tucker field goal.
Moment of the Year: Torrey Smith plays hours after his brother's death
Reasoning: Less than 24 hours after his brother died in a motorcycle accident, Torrey Smith delivered an inspirational performance, catching six passes for two touchdowns, including one that put the Ravens back in the game against the Patriots. Justin Tucker kicked the game-winning field goal in the final seconds of the game.
This could be a tough off-season for the Ravens. The team needs to re-sign Flacco, most likely to one of the biggest contracts in the league. If they don't he'll get the franchise tag and negotiations for this contract will resume after next season. Other key free agents the Ravens will have to re-sign include Paul Kruger, Ed Reed, Dannell Ellerbe, and Cary Williams. Plain and simple, Ed Reed needs to retire. He doesn't have it anymore, and it would save the Ravens some moolah. Those other free agents all had big roles in the Ravens run to the Lombardi.
As for the draft, the Ravens have pretty specific needs on both sides of the ball. The Ravens will undoubtedly draft another offensive lineman, with the possible loss of players like Matt Birk and Bryant MicKinnie. Defensive end and linebacker will also be positions of need for the Ravens, who have the #32 overall pick in this year's draft. Don't be surprised if Ozzie Newsome pulls another Ozzie Newsome and trades out of the first round for more draft picks later on.
That's it for this special edition of my Ravens Report, see you next year and go Orioles!
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Ravens Report-Super Bowl XLVII
Two weeks ago, the Ravens finally got over the hump, beating the Patriots in New England, 28-13 to advance to Super Bowl XLVII. After trailing at the half, Joe Flacco and Anquan Boldin put on a show offensively, hooking up twice. Defensively, key interceptions by Dannell Ellerbe and Cary Williams in the fourth quarter helped seal the win.
Player of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-21/36 for 240 passing yards, 3 TDs
Key to the Win: In the second half, the game was put in Joe Flacco's hands, and Flacco proved to his doubters what he can be. A dominant second-half performance put the Ravens on top in this one.
This Sunday, the Ravens will make their second ever Super Bowl appearance, and their first in twelve years. Back in 2001, the Ravens took down the Giants in Tampa, 34-7. This year, they head to New Orleans to take on the San Francisco 49ers, who went 11-4-1 in the regular season. The headlines in this one are sure to make it one of the more dramatic Super Bowl games ever. The fraternal head coaching matchup of John and Jim Harbaugh. The final time Ray Lewis steps onto a football field. The final game Ed Reed plays in a purple uniform, most likely. Joe Flacco looking to set the record straight on his "elite" status. Emotions will be high in this one.
These two teams last met last year on Thanksgiving night. The game was centered around the Harbaugh brothers, with John and the Ravens coming away with a 16-6 win. But looking at that game holistically for a preview of this one is a moot. When 49ers starting QB Alex Smith went down to an injury earlier in the year, second-year man Colin Kaepernick took over. His play impressed Jim Harbaugh, who left him in as the starter even when Smith healed. Kaepernick is a very mobile quarterback, rushing for over 600 yards and seven TDs in his nine starts. The Ravens will need to keep someone in the box to contain Kaepernick and keep him in the middle of the field. If he can get to the outside and run, he'll burn the Ravens with his speed and agility. Kaepernick also has a very strong arm. His balls seem to fly on a rope, making his receivers very difficult to cover. Michael Crabtree was the team's leading receiver in the regular season, racking up over 1,000 yards and getting to the end zone nine times. Future Hall of Fame WR Randy Moss is not nearly as much of a deep-field threat as he used to be, but he remains a potential game-changer if he can get past the Ravens secondary. TE Vernon Davis, a Maryland alum, did not have as successful a regular season as he usually does, but he has turned it on in the playoffs. In the NFC championship win over the Falcons, Davis caught five balls for 105 yards and a touchdown. His size and speed could create a major mismatch in coverage when a linebacker is on him. On the ground, Kaepernick serves as much of a threat as RB Frank Gore does. Gore is a solid up-field runner, but has some struggles against good run defenses. The Ravens need to bottle him up and make sure he doesn't break off any big runs to gain momentum as the game goes on.
On defense, the 49ers remain one of the most daunting in the NFL. Their staunch run defense ranked 4th in the NFL during the regular season. They are led by linebackers Patrick Willis, who many have likened to Ray Lewis, and Aldon Smith, who led the NFC in sacks this year. Despite Smith's hot start to the season, he has not picked up a sack in the last five games, and may be dealing with a more serious shoulder injury than at first anticipated. The team leader in tackles this year for the Niners was NaVarro Bowman, who is a major threat in pass coverage. His athletic ability evens up his matchups against both tight ends and wide receivers. Joe Flacco must known where Bowman is at all times. The Niners secondary is not nearly as intimidating as the rest of their defense, but they are still good at their jobs. They are led by a solid safety corps of Dashon Goldson and Donte Whitner, who combined for four interceptions and three forced fumbles during the regular season. Despite their being a strong defensive unit, I think the Ravens can still move the ball and put up some points with a balanced and confident offensive attack.
Prediction: These two teams are eerily similar on both sides of the ball. This game will come down to red zone defense. When the offense gets down around the twenty, can you limit them to three points? That will be the difference on Sunday. The Ravens have been very successful in those situations defensively this year, so I'll give them the advantage there. It could also come down to the kickers. 49ers K David Akers missed more field goals than any other kicker in the NFL this season. Don't be surprised if that plays into tomorrow's winner. In a close and nail-biting game, I have Joe Flacco and the Ravens offense pulling it out at the end. The Ravens will win this one, 27-20.
Key Matchups for Ravens at 49ers
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick Edge: Reed
Analysis: The greatest ball-hawk in NFL history will have quite a challenge in his first Super Bowl. But he wants a ring bad. And he'll turn it up a few notches to get one.
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. 49ers TE Vernon Davis Edge: Lewis
Analysis: In Ray Lewis' final NFL game, he'll be emotional and revved up. But that doesn't do anything to discount the talent of Davis. He will provide a great challenge for Ray.
Ravens LB Paul Kruger vs. 49ers LT Joe Staley Edge: Staley
Analysis: Although Kruger has had a great year, I think Joe Staley is prime for a great performance. It's important that Krug and the rest of the Ravens pass rush get to Kaepernick, but I think they'll have a rough time doing it against Staley.
Ravens LT Bryant McKinnie vs. 49ers LB Aldon Smith Edge: Smith
Analysis: Smith is one of the more dominant pass rushers in the league. He'll get around the Ravens offensive line, but not enough to take over the whole game.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. 49ers LB Patrick Willis Edge: Willis
Analysis: Despite Rice's speed, he had some trouble last year with Willis. That's the one thing that carries over from that game. Willis has an uncanny ability to stuff the middle. He'll get the better of Rice in this one.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. 49ers secondary Edge: Smith
Analysis: This is the one that could really turn the game around. Torrey Smith is developing himself into one of the premier deep-field threats in the league, and will burn a less-than-outstanding Niners secondary. Even one big play could be the play that decides the winner of this game.
Injury Report
Ravens
No one listed as worse than probable
49ers
No one listed as worse than probable
A special congratulations goes to former Ravens LT Jonathan Ogden, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame today. He will be officially inducted in August. Former Ravens owner Art Modell was a finalist, but was not inducted.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report. No matter the outcome, I'll be back next week to do a wrap-up of the 2012-13 Baltimore Ravens complete with individual awards. See you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-21/36 for 240 passing yards, 3 TDs
Key to the Win: In the second half, the game was put in Joe Flacco's hands, and Flacco proved to his doubters what he can be. A dominant second-half performance put the Ravens on top in this one.
This Sunday, the Ravens will make their second ever Super Bowl appearance, and their first in twelve years. Back in 2001, the Ravens took down the Giants in Tampa, 34-7. This year, they head to New Orleans to take on the San Francisco 49ers, who went 11-4-1 in the regular season. The headlines in this one are sure to make it one of the more dramatic Super Bowl games ever. The fraternal head coaching matchup of John and Jim Harbaugh. The final time Ray Lewis steps onto a football field. The final game Ed Reed plays in a purple uniform, most likely. Joe Flacco looking to set the record straight on his "elite" status. Emotions will be high in this one.
These two teams last met last year on Thanksgiving night. The game was centered around the Harbaugh brothers, with John and the Ravens coming away with a 16-6 win. But looking at that game holistically for a preview of this one is a moot. When 49ers starting QB Alex Smith went down to an injury earlier in the year, second-year man Colin Kaepernick took over. His play impressed Jim Harbaugh, who left him in as the starter even when Smith healed. Kaepernick is a very mobile quarterback, rushing for over 600 yards and seven TDs in his nine starts. The Ravens will need to keep someone in the box to contain Kaepernick and keep him in the middle of the field. If he can get to the outside and run, he'll burn the Ravens with his speed and agility. Kaepernick also has a very strong arm. His balls seem to fly on a rope, making his receivers very difficult to cover. Michael Crabtree was the team's leading receiver in the regular season, racking up over 1,000 yards and getting to the end zone nine times. Future Hall of Fame WR Randy Moss is not nearly as much of a deep-field threat as he used to be, but he remains a potential game-changer if he can get past the Ravens secondary. TE Vernon Davis, a Maryland alum, did not have as successful a regular season as he usually does, but he has turned it on in the playoffs. In the NFC championship win over the Falcons, Davis caught five balls for 105 yards and a touchdown. His size and speed could create a major mismatch in coverage when a linebacker is on him. On the ground, Kaepernick serves as much of a threat as RB Frank Gore does. Gore is a solid up-field runner, but has some struggles against good run defenses. The Ravens need to bottle him up and make sure he doesn't break off any big runs to gain momentum as the game goes on.
On defense, the 49ers remain one of the most daunting in the NFL. Their staunch run defense ranked 4th in the NFL during the regular season. They are led by linebackers Patrick Willis, who many have likened to Ray Lewis, and Aldon Smith, who led the NFC in sacks this year. Despite Smith's hot start to the season, he has not picked up a sack in the last five games, and may be dealing with a more serious shoulder injury than at first anticipated. The team leader in tackles this year for the Niners was NaVarro Bowman, who is a major threat in pass coverage. His athletic ability evens up his matchups against both tight ends and wide receivers. Joe Flacco must known where Bowman is at all times. The Niners secondary is not nearly as intimidating as the rest of their defense, but they are still good at their jobs. They are led by a solid safety corps of Dashon Goldson and Donte Whitner, who combined for four interceptions and three forced fumbles during the regular season. Despite their being a strong defensive unit, I think the Ravens can still move the ball and put up some points with a balanced and confident offensive attack.
Prediction: These two teams are eerily similar on both sides of the ball. This game will come down to red zone defense. When the offense gets down around the twenty, can you limit them to three points? That will be the difference on Sunday. The Ravens have been very successful in those situations defensively this year, so I'll give them the advantage there. It could also come down to the kickers. 49ers K David Akers missed more field goals than any other kicker in the NFL this season. Don't be surprised if that plays into tomorrow's winner. In a close and nail-biting game, I have Joe Flacco and the Ravens offense pulling it out at the end. The Ravens will win this one, 27-20.
Key Matchups for Ravens at 49ers
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick Edge: Reed
Analysis: The greatest ball-hawk in NFL history will have quite a challenge in his first Super Bowl. But he wants a ring bad. And he'll turn it up a few notches to get one.
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. 49ers TE Vernon Davis Edge: Lewis
Analysis: In Ray Lewis' final NFL game, he'll be emotional and revved up. But that doesn't do anything to discount the talent of Davis. He will provide a great challenge for Ray.
Ravens LB Paul Kruger vs. 49ers LT Joe Staley Edge: Staley
Analysis: Although Kruger has had a great year, I think Joe Staley is prime for a great performance. It's important that Krug and the rest of the Ravens pass rush get to Kaepernick, but I think they'll have a rough time doing it against Staley.
Ravens LT Bryant McKinnie vs. 49ers LB Aldon Smith Edge: Smith
Analysis: Smith is one of the more dominant pass rushers in the league. He'll get around the Ravens offensive line, but not enough to take over the whole game.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. 49ers LB Patrick Willis Edge: Willis
Analysis: Despite Rice's speed, he had some trouble last year with Willis. That's the one thing that carries over from that game. Willis has an uncanny ability to stuff the middle. He'll get the better of Rice in this one.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. 49ers secondary Edge: Smith
Analysis: This is the one that could really turn the game around. Torrey Smith is developing himself into one of the premier deep-field threats in the league, and will burn a less-than-outstanding Niners secondary. Even one big play could be the play that decides the winner of this game.
Injury Report
Ravens
No one listed as worse than probable
49ers
No one listed as worse than probable
A special congratulations goes to former Ravens LT Jonathan Ogden, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame today. He will be officially inducted in August. Former Ravens owner Art Modell was a finalist, but was not inducted.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report. No matter the outcome, I'll be back next week to do a wrap-up of the 2012-13 Baltimore Ravens complete with individual awards. See you next week and go Ravens!
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Ravens Report-AFC Championship 2013
How do I explain this one? Last week, the Ravens capped off the most memorable football game I've ever seen. In a double-overtime thriller, the Ravens outlasted the Broncos and won 38-35. The game didn't start out going their way however. On Sam Koch's punt following a failed first series, Broncos return man Trindon Holliday returned the ball 90 yards to the end zone to put the Broncos on top to begin the game. But the Ravens then showed the resiliency that would define them throughout the rest of the game. Following a pass interference call that kept the drive alive, Joe Flacco shot off a bomb that Torrey Smith caught for a 59-yard touchdown, tying the game. Just moments later, on a third-and-six for the Broncos, a tipped Peyton Manning pass ended up in the arms of Corey Graham, who returned it to the house to give the Ravens their first lead of the afternoon. But Peyton Manning threw touchdowns on his next two drives to give the Broncos the lead back midway through the second quarter. Joe Flacco and the Ravens offense were determined to knot it up heading into the half. In the final minute, Flacco threw up a soft pass along the sideline, yards short of the end zone. An incredible adjustment to the ball by Torrey Smith ended up with a Ravens touchdown and a tied game.
On Justin Tucker's opening kickoff, Holliday struck again. This time from 104 yards out, the Broncos once again had a seven-point lead. Again, an example of Ravens resiliency. The stout Ravens defense held Peyton Manning in check as Flacco worked on tying up the game again. A Flacco fumble proved a slight setback, but it didn't finish the purple birds off. On their next drive, coming off a Manning fumble, Ray Rice ran himself 37 yards down the field, including a 1-yard touchdown run to finish it off. The teams once again exchanged punts, but with seven minutes remaining in regulation, a Manning pass to Demaryius Thomas coupled with two broken tackles ended up in another Broncos score. On the Ravens' next drive, Flacco was unable to complete a fourth-down pass in Broncos territory, and the Broncos were given a chance to seal the win. But once again the Ravens defense stepped up, giving Joe Flacco one minute to extend the season, without any timeouts. After two plays garnered little gain, Flacco snapped off the next play with 41 seconds remaining from his own 30 yard-line. Flacco stepped up in the pocket and launched the pass as far as he could. The ball just barely was out of the reach of Broncos safety Rahim Moore and landed magically into the hands of Jacoby Jones, who scored to tie the game. The miracle of all miracles had come true, and into overtime the two teams went. Throughout the first overtime period, we saw punt after punt after punt. The Broncos got the ball, with a field-goal to win and a minute remaining in the period, the ball at their own 38. On second down, Manning rolled out and looked towards Brandon Stokley. But once again, Corey Graham found the ball and picked it off. His second pick of the day put the Ravens just yards away from Justin Tucker's field goal range. To begin the second overtime period, Ray Rice ran into field goal range, and Tucker took the field. Perfect snap, perfect hold, perfect kick. The Ravens had won it.
Player of the Game: Joe Flacco-18/34 for 331 yards, 3 touchdowns
Unsung Heroes: The offensive line-It seems the magic touch has been found when it comes to who plays what position on the offensive line. Moving Bryant McKinnie to left tackle did it. Broncos pass rushers Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil, two of the best at their job in the league, were non-factors, only sacking Flacco one time.
Key to the Win: Resiliency. Plain and simple. Playing in single-digit temperatures with high altitude and being 9-point underdogs, this win was pure resiliency.
Well, here we are again. For the second consecutive year, the Ravens will have a chance to play in the Super Bowl. But first, they'll have to go through Tom Brady and those pesky Patriots. Again. I won't even go back to what happened last year. When these two teams met in Baltimore back in Week 3, a game-winning kick at the buzzer by Justin Tucker gave the Ravens a 31-30 victory. But these are two different teams now. Unlike in the past, the Patriots now have a legitimate running game. Stevan Ridley ran for over 1,000 yards and twelve touchdowns on the year. RB Shane Vereen is a huge threat in the passing game, as he showed by catching three touchdowns last week in the Patriots win over the Texans. Receivers Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd combined for over 2,000 receiving yards and ten touchdowns this regular season, and could be lethal if the Ravens secondary is unable to contain them. One of the best tight ends in the game, Rob Gronkowski, re-injured his arm last week and will miss the rest of the post-season. But don't read into the loss of Gronk loss too much. If Tom Brady and the Pats offense showed anything in last week's rout of the Texans, it was that he has other options he can find to make a difference. In Gronk's place, Aaron Hernandez will start at tight end tomorrow for the Pats. During the regular season, Hernandez caught five touchdowns for nearly 500 yards.
On defense, the Pats are not nearly as intimidating. They rank in the bottom ten in two of the four major offensive categories; yards and passing yards per game. The most daunting member of their defensive front is undoubtedly DT Vince Wilfork, whose size alone makes him a dominating presence in the run game. Wilfork, during the regular season, had two sacks and forced two fumbles. He will be a huge difference-maker when the Ravens have the ball. In the secondary, the impact of CB Aqib Talib, who was acquired mid-season by the Patriots, has been largely over-stated. He has been a good corner, with 19 tackles and a pick-six since joining the Pats D, but he isn't nearly as good as many have made him out to be. Also, be sure to watch out for Patriots LB Brandon Spikes. He isn't dominating, but in his career against the Ravens, Spikes has twelve tackles, and an interception of Flacco in last year's AFC title game. All in all, this isn't even close to the toughest defense Flacco has had to deal with. Unlike the Broncos, they have no major pass rushing threats. Like the offensive line did against the Broncos, the Patriots pass rushers should be bottled up pretty nicely.
Prediction: After last week's win, this sure does seem like the team of destiny. Plus, this game should serve the Patriots up as a healthy dish of revenge. This game, like last year, will come down to the final minutes. I can't see a blowout either way. I have Ray Lewis living for just one more game after tomorrow, and the Ravens winning 27-23.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Patriots
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Patriots QB Tom Brady Edge: Brady
Analysis: This is a close one. The game could end up coming down to the Ravens' ability in the secondary to interfere with that impeccable timing Brady has with his receivers. If the Ravens can do that consistently, this one's in the bag. Easier said than done, though.
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez Edge: Lewis
Analysis: Hernandez might burn Ray a few times, but in the end, this one will belong to #52. Hernandez is a finesse, elusive receiver, the kind that can beat a slower Ray. But Lewis wants New Orleans way too bad to lose this matchup.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Patriots CB Aqib Talib Edge: Smith
Analysis: As I noted earlier, all I've heard this week is Aqib Talib this, Aqib Talib that. He's a good corner, but remember who Torrey Smith repeatedly burned last week in Denver? That would be future Hall of Famer Champ Bailey.
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Patriots DT Vince Wilfork Edge: Wilfork
Analysis: Wilfork's mere size gives him the advantage here, but it's not a large one. Then again, just one big play for him can swing the game one way or the other.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
CB Asa Jackson-Thigh-OUT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle/Back-QST
FB Vonta Leach-Knee/Ankle-QST
RB Bernard Pierce-Knee-QST
WR/RS David Reed-Thigh-QST
Patriots
Player-Injury-Status
None listed as worse than probable
Playoff Scenario: The Jim Harbaugh-led 49ers play the Falcons in Atlanta at 3:00 PM Sunday on FOX. That game should finish right around kickoff of the Ravens game at 6:30. The winners of those two games will meet in the Super Bowl in New Orleans two weeks from Sunday.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
On Justin Tucker's opening kickoff, Holliday struck again. This time from 104 yards out, the Broncos once again had a seven-point lead. Again, an example of Ravens resiliency. The stout Ravens defense held Peyton Manning in check as Flacco worked on tying up the game again. A Flacco fumble proved a slight setback, but it didn't finish the purple birds off. On their next drive, coming off a Manning fumble, Ray Rice ran himself 37 yards down the field, including a 1-yard touchdown run to finish it off. The teams once again exchanged punts, but with seven minutes remaining in regulation, a Manning pass to Demaryius Thomas coupled with two broken tackles ended up in another Broncos score. On the Ravens' next drive, Flacco was unable to complete a fourth-down pass in Broncos territory, and the Broncos were given a chance to seal the win. But once again the Ravens defense stepped up, giving Joe Flacco one minute to extend the season, without any timeouts. After two plays garnered little gain, Flacco snapped off the next play with 41 seconds remaining from his own 30 yard-line. Flacco stepped up in the pocket and launched the pass as far as he could. The ball just barely was out of the reach of Broncos safety Rahim Moore and landed magically into the hands of Jacoby Jones, who scored to tie the game. The miracle of all miracles had come true, and into overtime the two teams went. Throughout the first overtime period, we saw punt after punt after punt. The Broncos got the ball, with a field-goal to win and a minute remaining in the period, the ball at their own 38. On second down, Manning rolled out and looked towards Brandon Stokley. But once again, Corey Graham found the ball and picked it off. His second pick of the day put the Ravens just yards away from Justin Tucker's field goal range. To begin the second overtime period, Ray Rice ran into field goal range, and Tucker took the field. Perfect snap, perfect hold, perfect kick. The Ravens had won it.
Player of the Game: Joe Flacco-18/34 for 331 yards, 3 touchdowns
Unsung Heroes: The offensive line-It seems the magic touch has been found when it comes to who plays what position on the offensive line. Moving Bryant McKinnie to left tackle did it. Broncos pass rushers Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil, two of the best at their job in the league, were non-factors, only sacking Flacco one time.
Key to the Win: Resiliency. Plain and simple. Playing in single-digit temperatures with high altitude and being 9-point underdogs, this win was pure resiliency.
Well, here we are again. For the second consecutive year, the Ravens will have a chance to play in the Super Bowl. But first, they'll have to go through Tom Brady and those pesky Patriots. Again. I won't even go back to what happened last year. When these two teams met in Baltimore back in Week 3, a game-winning kick at the buzzer by Justin Tucker gave the Ravens a 31-30 victory. But these are two different teams now. Unlike in the past, the Patriots now have a legitimate running game. Stevan Ridley ran for over 1,000 yards and twelve touchdowns on the year. RB Shane Vereen is a huge threat in the passing game, as he showed by catching three touchdowns last week in the Patriots win over the Texans. Receivers Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd combined for over 2,000 receiving yards and ten touchdowns this regular season, and could be lethal if the Ravens secondary is unable to contain them. One of the best tight ends in the game, Rob Gronkowski, re-injured his arm last week and will miss the rest of the post-season. But don't read into the loss of Gronk loss too much. If Tom Brady and the Pats offense showed anything in last week's rout of the Texans, it was that he has other options he can find to make a difference. In Gronk's place, Aaron Hernandez will start at tight end tomorrow for the Pats. During the regular season, Hernandez caught five touchdowns for nearly 500 yards.
On defense, the Pats are not nearly as intimidating. They rank in the bottom ten in two of the four major offensive categories; yards and passing yards per game. The most daunting member of their defensive front is undoubtedly DT Vince Wilfork, whose size alone makes him a dominating presence in the run game. Wilfork, during the regular season, had two sacks and forced two fumbles. He will be a huge difference-maker when the Ravens have the ball. In the secondary, the impact of CB Aqib Talib, who was acquired mid-season by the Patriots, has been largely over-stated. He has been a good corner, with 19 tackles and a pick-six since joining the Pats D, but he isn't nearly as good as many have made him out to be. Also, be sure to watch out for Patriots LB Brandon Spikes. He isn't dominating, but in his career against the Ravens, Spikes has twelve tackles, and an interception of Flacco in last year's AFC title game. All in all, this isn't even close to the toughest defense Flacco has had to deal with. Unlike the Broncos, they have no major pass rushing threats. Like the offensive line did against the Broncos, the Patriots pass rushers should be bottled up pretty nicely.
Prediction: After last week's win, this sure does seem like the team of destiny. Plus, this game should serve the Patriots up as a healthy dish of revenge. This game, like last year, will come down to the final minutes. I can't see a blowout either way. I have Ray Lewis living for just one more game after tomorrow, and the Ravens winning 27-23.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Patriots
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Patriots QB Tom Brady Edge: Brady
Analysis: This is a close one. The game could end up coming down to the Ravens' ability in the secondary to interfere with that impeccable timing Brady has with his receivers. If the Ravens can do that consistently, this one's in the bag. Easier said than done, though.
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez Edge: Lewis
Analysis: Hernandez might burn Ray a few times, but in the end, this one will belong to #52. Hernandez is a finesse, elusive receiver, the kind that can beat a slower Ray. But Lewis wants New Orleans way too bad to lose this matchup.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Patriots CB Aqib Talib Edge: Smith
Analysis: As I noted earlier, all I've heard this week is Aqib Talib this, Aqib Talib that. He's a good corner, but remember who Torrey Smith repeatedly burned last week in Denver? That would be future Hall of Famer Champ Bailey.
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Patriots DT Vince Wilfork Edge: Wilfork
Analysis: Wilfork's mere size gives him the advantage here, but it's not a large one. Then again, just one big play for him can swing the game one way or the other.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
CB Asa Jackson-Thigh-OUT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle/Back-QST
FB Vonta Leach-Knee/Ankle-QST
RB Bernard Pierce-Knee-QST
WR/RS David Reed-Thigh-QST
Patriots
Player-Injury-Status
None listed as worse than probable
Playoff Scenario: The Jim Harbaugh-led 49ers play the Falcons in Atlanta at 3:00 PM Sunday on FOX. That game should finish right around kickoff of the Ravens game at 6:30. The winners of those two games will meet in the Super Bowl in New Orleans two weeks from Sunday.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Friday, January 11, 2013
Ravens Report-Divisional Round 2013
In Ray Lewis's final home game, the Ravens fittingly put on a defensive show, limiting the Colts to three field goals in a 24-9 win. Colts K Adam Vinatieri hit three of his four attempts after the Colts failed to reach the end zone from within the red zone. In his final home game, Ray Lewis led the team with 13 tackles despite a dropped interception. Following a scoreless first quarter in which both teams missed out on scoring opportunities because of turnovers, the Ravens and Colts exchanged second quarter field goals. On the Ravens' next drive, a 47-yard gain on a screen to Ray Rice gave the Ravens the ball at the two, when Vonta Leach busted up the middle to give the team back the lead. But in the final moments of the half, the Colts moved the ball down the field to set up a 52-yard Vinatieri field goal to make the score 10-6. The Ravens then took a two-possession lead when Joe Flacco found tight end Dennis Pitta for a 20-yard score. At the end of the third quarter, another failed Colts possession resulted in another field goal, making the score 17-9 with a quarter remaining. In the first minutes of the fourth, Anquan Boldin capped off an incredible day by making a spectacular leaping grab in the end zone, giving the Ravens a two-touchdown lead. The Colts began driving down the field for what would be their final chance to get back in the game but the Ravens were able to put the seal on the game when Cary Williams intercepted a tipped Andrew Luck pass and returned it into Colts territory. On the Ravens' final kneel-down, John Harbaugh sent Ray Lewis out on the field for one last moment on the gridiron at M&T Bank Stadium. After Flacco knelt down, Ray went into his final dance in front of a screaming Ravens crowd. Before exiting the field, Ray did a victory lap to say one more thank-you to the city of Baltimore.
Players of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-12/23 for 282 yards, 2 passing TDs
Ravens WR Anquan Boldin- 5 catches, 145 receiving yards (a Ravens playoff record), 1 receiving TD
Key to the Win: The defense stood by its "bend but don't break" mentality by stopping the Colts three times in the red zone. Joe Flacco was on his game, and despite Ray Rice's two fumbles, Bernard Pierce was able to step up when needed.
On Saturday, the Ravens will travel to Mile High to face off against Peyton Manning and his 13-3 Denver Broncos. When the Broncos visited Baltimore back in Week 15, Manning gave the Ravens a 34-17 beatdown that was much worse than that score entails (see my earlier blog entitled 'Ravens Report-Week 16 2012'). The temperature Saturday in Denver is expected to be between 11-20 degrees, which could play into the Ravens' hands. In his career, Peyton Manning is 2-6 with 6 TDs and 9 INTs in games which the temperature is below freezing. Manning is also expected to be wearing a glove. But don't read into these too much. He is still Peyton Manning, so don't be surprised if these stats are just an anomaly.
The Broncos rank in the top five in three of the four major offensive categories. They are 2nd in the league with 30 points and nearly 400 yards per game. Manning threw 37 touchdowns during the regular season, and was picked off eleven times. Two of his receivers had double-digit touchdowns and 1,000 yard receiving seasons, and will be major vertical threats to the Ravens secondary. Demaryius Thomas leads the team with 94 catches while racking up ten touchdowns, while Eric Decker has 85 catches with 13 touchdowns. An injury to former Ravens RB Willis McGahee has sidelined him for the year. He is being replaced by Knowshon Moreno, who has rushed for four touchdowns in his six starts this season. In his start against the Ravens, he rushed for 115 yards and a touchdown on 21 attempts. Plus, an improved Broncos offensive line has allowed just 21 sacks, the fewest in the AFC. In order to beat Peyton Manning, you need to mix up blitz packages and continuously get a hand in his face. Against this stout Broncos offensive line, that won't be easy. If they can get to him consistently over the course of this game, it could be a close one.
On defense, the Broncos are just as intimidating. They rank no lower than fourth in all four major defensive categories. That won't make things easy for a Joe Flacco offense that especially struggles on the road. LB Von Miller ranked third in the NFL this season with 18.5 sacks. Miller is helped by fellow pass rushers Elvis Dumervil and Derek Wolfe, who have combined for 17 sacks of their own this year. In the secondary, the Broncos are led by future Hall of Famer Champ Bailey, who had 66 tackles and two picks on the year. To keep the Broncos defense on their toes, Flacco has to maintain a fast tempo and be effective in the no huddle. A conservative offense just won't work. In defense of the Ravens dismal offensive performance against the Broncos last month, it was Jim Caldwell's first game calling plays. He is much more used to it now, so expect a smoother performance.
Prediction: No one is picking the Ravens in this game. And I mean no one. I'm not saying they're wrong. I don't think there is any question that the Broncos are a better team. But you know that they say..."any given Saturday." This team could come out and ride the momentum given to them by Ray Lewis' retirement all the way to New Orleans. Who knows? But simply, the Broncos are a better team. The Ravens will need to play a near-perfect game to win. I have the Broncos winning, 27-16.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Broncos
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas Edge: Thomas
Analysis: Thomas' speed and size could prove deadly in this matchup. Williams was burned for an Eric Decker touchdown last month, and Thomas is more talented than him.
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Broncos QB Peyton Manning Edge: Lewis
Analysis: Ray didn't play in the first game. You can bet Manning will look to go after the 37-year old but Ray isn't ready to fade into the darkness just yet.
Ravens LT Michael Oher vs. Broncos LB Von Miller Edge Miller
Analysis: This is the definition of a mismatch. Oher will need plenty of help containing Miller. If they can't, Flacco and the Ravens are in serious trouble.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Broncos LB Wesley Woodyard Edge: Rice
Analysis: After an off-week against the Colts, Rice will look to respond by putting on a show. He could have that chance while the Broncos focus on getting to Flacco.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
No player is listed as worse than probable.
Broncos
Player-Injury-Status
CB Tracy Porter-Concussion-OUT
AFC Playoff Scenarios: With a Ravens win against the Broncos, they will face the winner of the Texans/Patriots game, which will be played Sunday at 4:30 PM on CBS.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
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Players of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-12/23 for 282 yards, 2 passing TDs
Ravens WR Anquan Boldin- 5 catches, 145 receiving yards (a Ravens playoff record), 1 receiving TD
Key to the Win: The defense stood by its "bend but don't break" mentality by stopping the Colts three times in the red zone. Joe Flacco was on his game, and despite Ray Rice's two fumbles, Bernard Pierce was able to step up when needed.
On Saturday, the Ravens will travel to Mile High to face off against Peyton Manning and his 13-3 Denver Broncos. When the Broncos visited Baltimore back in Week 15, Manning gave the Ravens a 34-17 beatdown that was much worse than that score entails (see my earlier blog entitled 'Ravens Report-Week 16 2012'). The temperature Saturday in Denver is expected to be between 11-20 degrees, which could play into the Ravens' hands. In his career, Peyton Manning is 2-6 with 6 TDs and 9 INTs in games which the temperature is below freezing. Manning is also expected to be wearing a glove. But don't read into these too much. He is still Peyton Manning, so don't be surprised if these stats are just an anomaly.
The Broncos rank in the top five in three of the four major offensive categories. They are 2nd in the league with 30 points and nearly 400 yards per game. Manning threw 37 touchdowns during the regular season, and was picked off eleven times. Two of his receivers had double-digit touchdowns and 1,000 yard receiving seasons, and will be major vertical threats to the Ravens secondary. Demaryius Thomas leads the team with 94 catches while racking up ten touchdowns, while Eric Decker has 85 catches with 13 touchdowns. An injury to former Ravens RB Willis McGahee has sidelined him for the year. He is being replaced by Knowshon Moreno, who has rushed for four touchdowns in his six starts this season. In his start against the Ravens, he rushed for 115 yards and a touchdown on 21 attempts. Plus, an improved Broncos offensive line has allowed just 21 sacks, the fewest in the AFC. In order to beat Peyton Manning, you need to mix up blitz packages and continuously get a hand in his face. Against this stout Broncos offensive line, that won't be easy. If they can get to him consistently over the course of this game, it could be a close one.
On defense, the Broncos are just as intimidating. They rank no lower than fourth in all four major defensive categories. That won't make things easy for a Joe Flacco offense that especially struggles on the road. LB Von Miller ranked third in the NFL this season with 18.5 sacks. Miller is helped by fellow pass rushers Elvis Dumervil and Derek Wolfe, who have combined for 17 sacks of their own this year. In the secondary, the Broncos are led by future Hall of Famer Champ Bailey, who had 66 tackles and two picks on the year. To keep the Broncos defense on their toes, Flacco has to maintain a fast tempo and be effective in the no huddle. A conservative offense just won't work. In defense of the Ravens dismal offensive performance against the Broncos last month, it was Jim Caldwell's first game calling plays. He is much more used to it now, so expect a smoother performance.
Prediction: No one is picking the Ravens in this game. And I mean no one. I'm not saying they're wrong. I don't think there is any question that the Broncos are a better team. But you know that they say..."any given Saturday." This team could come out and ride the momentum given to them by Ray Lewis' retirement all the way to New Orleans. Who knows? But simply, the Broncos are a better team. The Ravens will need to play a near-perfect game to win. I have the Broncos winning, 27-16.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Broncos
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas Edge: Thomas
Analysis: Thomas' speed and size could prove deadly in this matchup. Williams was burned for an Eric Decker touchdown last month, and Thomas is more talented than him.
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Broncos QB Peyton Manning Edge: Lewis
Analysis: Ray didn't play in the first game. You can bet Manning will look to go after the 37-year old but Ray isn't ready to fade into the darkness just yet.
Ravens LT Michael Oher vs. Broncos LB Von Miller Edge Miller
Analysis: This is the definition of a mismatch. Oher will need plenty of help containing Miller. If they can't, Flacco and the Ravens are in serious trouble.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Broncos LB Wesley Woodyard Edge: Rice
Analysis: After an off-week against the Colts, Rice will look to respond by putting on a show. He could have that chance while the Broncos focus on getting to Flacco.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
No player is listed as worse than probable.
Broncos
Player-Injury-Status
CB Tracy Porter-Concussion-OUT
AFC Playoff Scenarios: With a Ravens win against the Broncos, they will face the winner of the Texans/Patriots game, which will be played Sunday at 4:30 PM on CBS.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
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Saturday, January 5, 2013
Ravens Report-Wild Card Round 2013
Last Sunday, the Ravens fell to the Cincinnati Bengals in the regular season finale, 23-17. The majority of the game was played by the second-stringers on both teams. The Ravens had pulled out most of their starters by the beginning of the second half, while the Bengals brought most of theirs out in the first minutes of the second half. Ravens second-year QB Tyrod Taylor entered the game for his first real NFL experience. By the time the starters were all out, the game was tied 7-7. The Ravens got those points when third-string RB Anthony Allen pounded the ball in for a two-yard score, the first of his career. With the Ravens trailing 13-7 to begin the fourth quarter, Tyrod ran the ball down the field and finished off the drive with a 1-yard touchdown run to give the Ravens the lead. After a Bengals field goal, Carlos Dunlap picked off Tyrod and returned it home for a touchdown. A missed field goal by Justin Tucker didn't help the Ravens' attempts at getting back in the ball game, which ended up helping to seal the Bengals victory. With this loss, the Ravens finish up the regular season with a 10-6 record, an AFC North division title, and their fifth consecutive playoff berth.
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Bernard Pierce-22 attempts, 89 rushing yards
Key Takeaway from this Game: Don't read into this loss too much. At the most, this was a third pre-season game. The Ravens had nothing to lose and very little to gain with a win and this game. John Harbaugh smartly opted to give his players some rest.
This Sunday, the Ravens open their run to the Lombardi trophy by hosting the Indianapolis Colts, who went 11-5 on the season. There is certainly no shortage of story lines in this one. Of course there's the animosity that Baltimoreans feel for losing their Colts to the city of Indianapolis back in 1984, however I don't think that anger is the same that it used to be. The departure of Peyton Manning may have something to do with that. On Sunday, the Colts may still be announced as the "professional football team from Indianapolis" when they enter the playing field. You've also got the return of Chuck Pagano, the Colts head coach who spent the past four seasons as an assistant coach for the Ravens. Pagano was diagnosed with leukemia back in September, but is in remission and made his return to the sidelines just last week. To add to all that, Sunday could very well be the final home game for the face of the Ravens, with Ray Lewis announcing his intentions to retire at the end of the playoffs. To further read my thoughts on the career and legacy of #52, head to http://www.faniq.com/blog/Ray-Lewis-Retirement-Blog-60018 to check it out.
The Colts have had quite a season, gaining much of their energy and momentum from the situation they were put in after losing their leader. After having the worst record in the NFL last season, the Colts used the #1 overall pick to add QB Andrew Luck from Stanford. Luck has led the Colts on seven game-winning drives this season, a rookie record. He threw for over 4,000 yards and 23 touchdowns, but was also picked off eighteen times. His favorite target is veteran WR Reggie Wayne, who racked up 106 catches on the year for over 1,000 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Fellow receivers Donnie Avery and T.Y. Hilton combined for similar numbers as Wayne, with ten touchdowns between them. The Colts' running game has been suspect however, ranking 22nd in the NFL with just 104 yards per game on the ground. Rookie RB Vick Ballard rushed for 800 with just two touchdowns. He will get the bulk of the carries on Sunday, but he's had trouble with consistency over long periods of time.
On defense, the Colts rank in the bottom half of the NFL in all four major defensive categories. They are led by DE Dwight Freeney, who hasn't been nearly as productive this year as in previous years. The Colts also have two former Ravens on defense, Cory Redding and Tom Zbikowski, who have helped introduce Pagano's defensive philosophy to their Colts teammates. Other factors on this side of the ball for the Colts include LB Jerrell Freeman, who led the team in tackles, and S Antoine Bethea, who has two sacks on the year. The defense is definitely the Colts' greatest liability, and one that Joe Flacco can take advantage off with a sound game of his own.
Prediction: This game will be quite an emotional roller-coaster. But with the announcement this week of Ray Lewis' retirement, I can't see the Ravens losing this one. That team is playing for Ray, and they want to make his final ride one to remember. Plus, the fans will be loud the entire game, so expect the Ravens to feed off of that. I have the Ravens winning, 27-17.
Key Matchups for Colts at Ravens
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Colts WR Reggie Wayne Edge: Wayne
Analysis: In a matchup of the former Miami teammates, Wayne's speed and explosive ability will propel him over a struggling and beat-down Reed.
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs vs. Colts QB Andrew Luck Edge: Suggs
Analysis: Luck has a knack for getting out of the pocket, so Sizzle and the rest of the Ravens pass rush will have a tough task of getting to Luck, but I believe they'll do it.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Colts CB Vontae Davis Edge: Smith
Analysis: I think Smith's speed and vertical ability will give Davis some tough times throughout the game.
Ravens LT Michael Oher vs. Colts LB Robert Mathis Edge: Mathis
Analysis: Oher has been struggling mightily and Mathis is possibly the best pass rusher the Colts have. The Colts will sure look to take advantage of this mismatch.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
WR Tandon Doss-Ankle-QST
S Bernard Pollard-Chest-QST
T Jah Reid-Toe-QST
Colts
Player-Injury-Status
G Joe Reitz-Concussion-OUT
RB Delone Carter-Ankle-QST
NT Antonio Johnson-Ankle-QST
T Winston Justice-Shoulder-QST
C A.Q. Shipley-Knee-QST
S Tom Zbikowski-Knee-QST
Playoff Scenarios: With a win on Sunday, the Ravens will go to one of two places. If the Bengals beat the Texans in Houston on Saturday night, the Ravens will go to New England and the Bengals will go to Denver. If the Texans win, the Texans will head to New England, and the Ravens to Denver.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Bernard Pierce-22 attempts, 89 rushing yards
Key Takeaway from this Game: Don't read into this loss too much. At the most, this was a third pre-season game. The Ravens had nothing to lose and very little to gain with a win and this game. John Harbaugh smartly opted to give his players some rest.
This Sunday, the Ravens open their run to the Lombardi trophy by hosting the Indianapolis Colts, who went 11-5 on the season. There is certainly no shortage of story lines in this one. Of course there's the animosity that Baltimoreans feel for losing their Colts to the city of Indianapolis back in 1984, however I don't think that anger is the same that it used to be. The departure of Peyton Manning may have something to do with that. On Sunday, the Colts may still be announced as the "professional football team from Indianapolis" when they enter the playing field. You've also got the return of Chuck Pagano, the Colts head coach who spent the past four seasons as an assistant coach for the Ravens. Pagano was diagnosed with leukemia back in September, but is in remission and made his return to the sidelines just last week. To add to all that, Sunday could very well be the final home game for the face of the Ravens, with Ray Lewis announcing his intentions to retire at the end of the playoffs. To further read my thoughts on the career and legacy of #52, head to http://www.faniq.com/blog/Ray-Lewis-Retirement-Blog-60018 to check it out.
The Colts have had quite a season, gaining much of their energy and momentum from the situation they were put in after losing their leader. After having the worst record in the NFL last season, the Colts used the #1 overall pick to add QB Andrew Luck from Stanford. Luck has led the Colts on seven game-winning drives this season, a rookie record. He threw for over 4,000 yards and 23 touchdowns, but was also picked off eighteen times. His favorite target is veteran WR Reggie Wayne, who racked up 106 catches on the year for over 1,000 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Fellow receivers Donnie Avery and T.Y. Hilton combined for similar numbers as Wayne, with ten touchdowns between them. The Colts' running game has been suspect however, ranking 22nd in the NFL with just 104 yards per game on the ground. Rookie RB Vick Ballard rushed for 800 with just two touchdowns. He will get the bulk of the carries on Sunday, but he's had trouble with consistency over long periods of time.
On defense, the Colts rank in the bottom half of the NFL in all four major defensive categories. They are led by DE Dwight Freeney, who hasn't been nearly as productive this year as in previous years. The Colts also have two former Ravens on defense, Cory Redding and Tom Zbikowski, who have helped introduce Pagano's defensive philosophy to their Colts teammates. Other factors on this side of the ball for the Colts include LB Jerrell Freeman, who led the team in tackles, and S Antoine Bethea, who has two sacks on the year. The defense is definitely the Colts' greatest liability, and one that Joe Flacco can take advantage off with a sound game of his own.
Prediction: This game will be quite an emotional roller-coaster. But with the announcement this week of Ray Lewis' retirement, I can't see the Ravens losing this one. That team is playing for Ray, and they want to make his final ride one to remember. Plus, the fans will be loud the entire game, so expect the Ravens to feed off of that. I have the Ravens winning, 27-17.
Key Matchups for Colts at Ravens
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Colts WR Reggie Wayne Edge: Wayne
Analysis: In a matchup of the former Miami teammates, Wayne's speed and explosive ability will propel him over a struggling and beat-down Reed.
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs vs. Colts QB Andrew Luck Edge: Suggs
Analysis: Luck has a knack for getting out of the pocket, so Sizzle and the rest of the Ravens pass rush will have a tough task of getting to Luck, but I believe they'll do it.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Colts CB Vontae Davis Edge: Smith
Analysis: I think Smith's speed and vertical ability will give Davis some tough times throughout the game.
Ravens LT Michael Oher vs. Colts LB Robert Mathis Edge: Mathis
Analysis: Oher has been struggling mightily and Mathis is possibly the best pass rusher the Colts have. The Colts will sure look to take advantage of this mismatch.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
WR Tandon Doss-Ankle-QST
S Bernard Pollard-Chest-QST
T Jah Reid-Toe-QST
Colts
Player-Injury-Status
G Joe Reitz-Concussion-OUT
RB Delone Carter-Ankle-QST
NT Antonio Johnson-Ankle-QST
T Winston Justice-Shoulder-QST
C A.Q. Shipley-Knee-QST
S Tom Zbikowski-Knee-QST
Playoff Scenarios: With a win on Sunday, the Ravens will go to one of two places. If the Bengals beat the Texans in Houston on Saturday night, the Ravens will go to New England and the Bengals will go to Denver. If the Texans win, the Texans will head to New England, and the Ravens to Denver.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 17 2012
Coming into last week's Giants/Ravens game, both teams had a chance to solidify themselves as serious playoff contenders. But you wouldn't have known that with the way the Giants played. In an inspired effort, the Ravens took down the dispassionate Giants, 33-14. With this win, the Ravens have clinched their second-consecutive AFC North title and at least one home playoff game. The Ravens put up two impressive scoring drives to open the game, but the Giants answered with one of their own to finish off the first quarter. After a Justin Tucker field goal, the Ravens put the finishing touches on a superb first half when Flacco found Rice up the middle for a 27-yard touchdown on a play-call that we haven't seen often this year. The play is actually one of the offense's base routes, and in the past has been called on for important third-and-fourth-down situations. In the second half, Justin Tucker would put up three more field goals, and the Giants would score once more in the fourth quarter to end the game.
Player of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-25/36 for 309 passing yards, 2 passing touchdowns, 1 rushing touchdown
Key to the Win: This was a statement win that the Ravens needed badly. After losing three straight games, a chance to beat a team like the Giants was one that was too opportune to give up. The Ravens showed up in all three phases of the game. Justin Tucker was perfect from field goal range, and luckily we didn't see too much of Sam Koch. Flacco was clicking offensively and both Ray Rice and Bernard Pierce ran for over 100 yards. The defense kept an explosive Giants offense in check, limiting key receivers Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz.
This Sunday, the Ravens will wrap up the regular season in Cincinnati against a 9-6 Bengals team. When the two teams met in Baltimore back in Week 1, the Ravens handed down a 44-13 beat-down. But that game is nearly irrelevant now as now these two teams are in vastly different places. This is an odd game when it comes to playoff implications. The Bengals are locked into the #6 seed, while the Ravens look to be in the #4 spot, barring a Dolphins upset over the Patriots in New England (they would jump to #3). Neither team has too large of an incentive for winning this game. But that doesn't mean they won't be trying to win it. The Bengals have lost four straight to the Ravens, and will be looking to knock that monkey off their backs. They believe that in order to get where they want to go, they need to go through a Ravens team that has owned them in recent years. Also, both teams will be looking to get momentum heading into the playoffs, and can do so with a win. Don't expect to see either team benching too many of their non-injured starters. The Ravens may give a break to some of their more banged-up players, such as Haloti Ngata and Marshal Yanda, so don't expect to see much if any from them this weekend.
On offense, the Bengals are led by a youth movement consisting of second-year QB Andy Dalton and his favorite partner, Pro-Bowl WR A.J. Green, who has established himself as one of the better up-and-coming receivers in the league. Green has over 1,000 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns on the season thus far. Though he has had some troubles hanging on to the ball, he is extremely dangerous when he does hang on. Bengals RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, in contrast, has fumbled just three times in his five-year career. All three, however, happened this season. Green-Ellis has started in all fifteen games this season, racking up six rushing touchdowns and over 1,000 rushing yards. The Bengals are also helped out offensively by rookie weapon Andrew Hawkins, who caught eight balls back in Week 1, and TE Jermaine Gresham, who has five touchdown catches on the year.
The Bengals are much flashier on defense, however. Ranked ninth in the NFL in total defense, they are third-best in the AFC with 44 sacks. DT Geno Atkins has a team-high 12.5 sacks on the year, coupled with four forced fumbles. Rookie LB Vontaze Burfict, who the Ravens passed on following the draft, has been a huge help to the Bengals on defense. He is second on the team in tackles, just a few behind fellow LB Rey Maualuga, who has become a staple on the Bengals defense. In the secondary, the Bengals have received jolts from veteran CBs Leon Hall and Adam Jones, who have rejuvenated their careers with good seasons in Cincinnati. If the Ravens can hold off the dangerous Bengals pass rush, Joe Flacco should have enough time to find an open receiver against a talented secondary lacking in depth.
Prediction: Whoever wants it more will get it. If the Ravens treat this game like a third pre-season game, they won't win. Both teams want to have something to ride with heading into the playoffs, which start next week for both teams. Expect both teams to come out in full force to try and take this finale. I have the Ravens winning, 23-13.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Bengals
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Bengals WR A.J. Green Edge: Green
Analysis: While Cary has had a remarkable year, he will have a tough afternoon going up against the size and physicality of Green.
Ravens LB Dannell Ellerbe vs. Bengals RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis Edge: Ellerbe
Analysis: This is one of the matchups the Ravens desperately want to win. Ellerbe has had a great year, and will continue against Green-Ellis.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Bengals CB Leon Hall Edge: Smith
Analysis: Smith's vertical game will help him in this matchup against a size-disadvantaged Leon Hall. His leaping ability will give him the win here.
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Bengals DT Geno Atkins Edge: Atkins
Analysis: Atkins has been dominant off the edge, especially of late. He'll continue his success against a struggling Ravens offensive line.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
WR Anquan Boldin-Shoulder-QST
WR Tandon Doss-Ankle-QST
DE Arthur Jones-Thigh-QST
FB Vonta Leach-Ankle-QST
LB Albert McLellan-Shoulder/Thigh-QST
DT Haloti Ngata-Knee-QST
G/T Marshal Yanda-Shoulder/Knee-QST
Bengals
Player-Injury-Status
K Mike Nugent-Calf-OUT
CB Jason Allen-Hamstring-QST
CB Terence Newman-Groin-QST
Ravens Playoff Outlook: The Ravens will be playing at home next week to open up the playoffs. Barring a Dolphins upset of the Patriots, the Ravens will be hosting the Indianapolis Colts. With a Ravens win and a Dolphins win, the Ravens will be hosting, ironically enough, the Bengals.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-25/36 for 309 passing yards, 2 passing touchdowns, 1 rushing touchdown
Key to the Win: This was a statement win that the Ravens needed badly. After losing three straight games, a chance to beat a team like the Giants was one that was too opportune to give up. The Ravens showed up in all three phases of the game. Justin Tucker was perfect from field goal range, and luckily we didn't see too much of Sam Koch. Flacco was clicking offensively and both Ray Rice and Bernard Pierce ran for over 100 yards. The defense kept an explosive Giants offense in check, limiting key receivers Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz.
This Sunday, the Ravens will wrap up the regular season in Cincinnati against a 9-6 Bengals team. When the two teams met in Baltimore back in Week 1, the Ravens handed down a 44-13 beat-down. But that game is nearly irrelevant now as now these two teams are in vastly different places. This is an odd game when it comes to playoff implications. The Bengals are locked into the #6 seed, while the Ravens look to be in the #4 spot, barring a Dolphins upset over the Patriots in New England (they would jump to #3). Neither team has too large of an incentive for winning this game. But that doesn't mean they won't be trying to win it. The Bengals have lost four straight to the Ravens, and will be looking to knock that monkey off their backs. They believe that in order to get where they want to go, they need to go through a Ravens team that has owned them in recent years. Also, both teams will be looking to get momentum heading into the playoffs, and can do so with a win. Don't expect to see either team benching too many of their non-injured starters. The Ravens may give a break to some of their more banged-up players, such as Haloti Ngata and Marshal Yanda, so don't expect to see much if any from them this weekend.
On offense, the Bengals are led by a youth movement consisting of second-year QB Andy Dalton and his favorite partner, Pro-Bowl WR A.J. Green, who has established himself as one of the better up-and-coming receivers in the league. Green has over 1,000 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns on the season thus far. Though he has had some troubles hanging on to the ball, he is extremely dangerous when he does hang on. Bengals RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, in contrast, has fumbled just three times in his five-year career. All three, however, happened this season. Green-Ellis has started in all fifteen games this season, racking up six rushing touchdowns and over 1,000 rushing yards. The Bengals are also helped out offensively by rookie weapon Andrew Hawkins, who caught eight balls back in Week 1, and TE Jermaine Gresham, who has five touchdown catches on the year.
The Bengals are much flashier on defense, however. Ranked ninth in the NFL in total defense, they are third-best in the AFC with 44 sacks. DT Geno Atkins has a team-high 12.5 sacks on the year, coupled with four forced fumbles. Rookie LB Vontaze Burfict, who the Ravens passed on following the draft, has been a huge help to the Bengals on defense. He is second on the team in tackles, just a few behind fellow LB Rey Maualuga, who has become a staple on the Bengals defense. In the secondary, the Bengals have received jolts from veteran CBs Leon Hall and Adam Jones, who have rejuvenated their careers with good seasons in Cincinnati. If the Ravens can hold off the dangerous Bengals pass rush, Joe Flacco should have enough time to find an open receiver against a talented secondary lacking in depth.
Prediction: Whoever wants it more will get it. If the Ravens treat this game like a third pre-season game, they won't win. Both teams want to have something to ride with heading into the playoffs, which start next week for both teams. Expect both teams to come out in full force to try and take this finale. I have the Ravens winning, 23-13.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Bengals
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Bengals WR A.J. Green Edge: Green
Analysis: While Cary has had a remarkable year, he will have a tough afternoon going up against the size and physicality of Green.
Ravens LB Dannell Ellerbe vs. Bengals RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis Edge: Ellerbe
Analysis: This is one of the matchups the Ravens desperately want to win. Ellerbe has had a great year, and will continue against Green-Ellis.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Bengals CB Leon Hall Edge: Smith
Analysis: Smith's vertical game will help him in this matchup against a size-disadvantaged Leon Hall. His leaping ability will give him the win here.
Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Bengals DT Geno Atkins Edge: Atkins
Analysis: Atkins has been dominant off the edge, especially of late. He'll continue his success against a struggling Ravens offensive line.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
WR Anquan Boldin-Shoulder-QST
WR Tandon Doss-Ankle-QST
DE Arthur Jones-Thigh-QST
FB Vonta Leach-Ankle-QST
LB Albert McLellan-Shoulder/Thigh-QST
DT Haloti Ngata-Knee-QST
G/T Marshal Yanda-Shoulder/Knee-QST
Bengals
Player-Injury-Status
K Mike Nugent-Calf-OUT
CB Jason Allen-Hamstring-QST
CB Terence Newman-Groin-QST
Ravens Playoff Outlook: The Ravens will be playing at home next week to open up the playoffs. Barring a Dolphins upset of the Patriots, the Ravens will be hosting the Indianapolis Colts. With a Ravens win and a Dolphins win, the Ravens will be hosting, ironically enough, the Bengals.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 16 2012
Last Sunday, the Ravens fell for the third consecutive week, beaten to a pulp by a rejuvenated Broncos team, 34-17. The Broncos jumped out to a 10-0 lead in the final minutes of the first half. Joe Flacco began to drive the Ravens down the field to get a score, finding Torrey Smith near the goal line with 30 seconds left. Although the Ravens still had all three timeouts, they opted not to use one. Flacco rushed to the line and was picked off by Chris Harris, who took the ball back 98 yards for a touchdown, giving the Broncos a 17-0 lead at halftime. The Ravens got on the board with a field goal in the second half, but the Broncos answered with two touchdowns of their own, blowing the game open. In the beginning of the fourth quarter, Flacco finally got it going, throwing a 31-yard touchdown score to Dennis Pitta. Later in the game, Flacco found Pitta again, who broke tackles and scampered his way 61 yards down the field and into the end zone, finishing off the scoring for the day. The Ravens defense did not play all that badly, but the offense gave them no time to rest on the bench, tiring them out by the second half of the game. Despite the Ravens loss, a Steelers loss helped the Ravens clinch their fifth consecutive playoff berth, making the Flacco-Harbaugh tandem perfect in their years in Baltimore.
Player of the Game: Broncos WR Eric Decker-8 catches, 133 receiving yards, 1 receiving touchdown
Key Takeaway from this Game: It seemed as if the Ravens players, and fans for that matter, conceded this loss before we even kicked off. Peyton Manning knows how to take advantage of teams' weaknesses; the Ravens' weakness being their defense. The Ravens won't have it easy against playoff teams. We can only hope that they can stay in games and give our defense the rest it needs.
This Sunday, the Ravens host their regular season home finale against the 8-6 New York Giants, who are coming off a blowout loss of their own, losing 34-0 last week in Atlanta. In a matchup of two teams desperate for bounce-back victory, the Giants could be fighting for their playoff lives. And we all know how the Giants are able to pull things together late in the season, including last year's late-season run to a Super Bowl championship. We'll see which side of these two two-faced teams comes out to play Sunday afternoon. On offense, Eli Manning leads a dangerous attack which has been weakened on the ground, but still remains a large threat in the air. Running back Ahmad Bradshaw has been sidelined with an injury, but expects to return (possibly on a limited basis) on Sunday. Backup running back David Wilson has taken over the reins and run for 155 over the past two games. In the air, the Giants present two very dangerous threats in Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. Cruz has caught nine touchdowns, and remains Manning's favorite target. But tight end Martellus Bennett has become another favorite of Manning's, racking up nearly 600 yards and five touchdowns. Bennett presents a matchup problem for the Ravens depleted linebackers corps. On defense, the Giants rank in the bottom 10 in three of the four major defensive categories, including yards per game. The most daunting of the Giants unit defensively comes on the defensive line. Linemen Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, and Jason Pierre-Paul have combined for 15.5 sacks on the season, and could prove to be game-changers against a struggling offensive line unit for the Ravens. The Giants are significantly less scary on other parts of the defense, including a secondary that is ranked 28th in the league in passing yards. If the offensive line can give Joe Flacco time in the pocket, he could use it to beat the weaker parts of this Giants defense.
Prediction: The Ravens need this one bad. Then again, so do the Giants. A Ravens win seals the division, and this team would love to have that off their backs heading to Cincinnati next week. If the Ravens offensive line can hold their ground, and give Joe Flacco time to throw in the pocket, the Giants could be in for a long day. But if they let their strong defensive lineman get to Flacco, it could be a long day for the Ravens. Expect the Ravens to open with a strong ground attack to open up play-action later in the game. I have the Ravens winning the game, 27-23.
Key Matchups for Giants at Ravens
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Giants WR Victor Cruz Edge: Cruz
Analysis: Manning loves Cruz, and makes him one of the better receivers in the game. While Cary has made some big plays on pass deflections, he also has the tendency to let a receiver get away from him. If that happens against Cruz, we're in trouble.
Ravens LB Brendon Ayanbadejo vs. Giants TE Martellus Bennett Edge: Ayanbadejo
Analysis: This is a close one, but Ayanbadejo has had a nice year filling this role. If he doesn't let this matchup affect other parts of his game, he'll win this one. Bennett is having a good year as well, and could very well take this one.
Ravens T Michael Oher vs. Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul Edge: Pierre-Paul
Analysis: Pierre-Paul is one of the premier pass rushers in the league, and will easily beat Oher in this matchup. Oher just can't lose it in a blowout.
Ravens WR Anquan Boldin vs. Giants CB Corey Webster Edge: Boldin
Analysis: I have a feeling Boldin will have a good day as Torrey Smith will be limited (if he plays at all) with a concussion. Webster is also known for giving up some big plays.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
LB Jameel McClain-Neck-OUT (will miss remainder of season)
S Bernard Pollard-Chest-DBT
WR Tandon Doss-Ankle-QST
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle-QST
FB Vonta Leach-Ankle-QST
LB Albert McClellan-Thigh/Shoulder-QST
RB Bernard Pierce-Head-QST
WR Torrey Smith-Head-QST
G/T Marshal Yanda-Ankle-QST
Giants
Player-Injury-Status
C David Baas-Hip/Shoulder-QST
TE Travis Beckum-Knee-QST
RB Ahmad Bradshaw-Knee/Foot-QST
S Kenny Phillips-Knee-QST
S Tyler Sash-Hamstring-QST
G Chris Snee-Hip-QST
DE Justin Tuck-Shoulder-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 9 5
Bengals 8 6
Steelers 7 7
Browns 5 9
AFC North Outlook: If the Ravens win one of the final two games, the division is theirs.The Bengals host the Steelers, with a Bengals win eliminating the Steelers from playoff contention. The Browns visit the Broncos.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report. See you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Broncos WR Eric Decker-8 catches, 133 receiving yards, 1 receiving touchdown
Key Takeaway from this Game: It seemed as if the Ravens players, and fans for that matter, conceded this loss before we even kicked off. Peyton Manning knows how to take advantage of teams' weaknesses; the Ravens' weakness being their defense. The Ravens won't have it easy against playoff teams. We can only hope that they can stay in games and give our defense the rest it needs.
This Sunday, the Ravens host their regular season home finale against the 8-6 New York Giants, who are coming off a blowout loss of their own, losing 34-0 last week in Atlanta. In a matchup of two teams desperate for bounce-back victory, the Giants could be fighting for their playoff lives. And we all know how the Giants are able to pull things together late in the season, including last year's late-season run to a Super Bowl championship. We'll see which side of these two two-faced teams comes out to play Sunday afternoon. On offense, Eli Manning leads a dangerous attack which has been weakened on the ground, but still remains a large threat in the air. Running back Ahmad Bradshaw has been sidelined with an injury, but expects to return (possibly on a limited basis) on Sunday. Backup running back David Wilson has taken over the reins and run for 155 over the past two games. In the air, the Giants present two very dangerous threats in Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. Cruz has caught nine touchdowns, and remains Manning's favorite target. But tight end Martellus Bennett has become another favorite of Manning's, racking up nearly 600 yards and five touchdowns. Bennett presents a matchup problem for the Ravens depleted linebackers corps. On defense, the Giants rank in the bottom 10 in three of the four major defensive categories, including yards per game. The most daunting of the Giants unit defensively comes on the defensive line. Linemen Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, and Jason Pierre-Paul have combined for 15.5 sacks on the season, and could prove to be game-changers against a struggling offensive line unit for the Ravens. The Giants are significantly less scary on other parts of the defense, including a secondary that is ranked 28th in the league in passing yards. If the offensive line can give Joe Flacco time in the pocket, he could use it to beat the weaker parts of this Giants defense.
Prediction: The Ravens need this one bad. Then again, so do the Giants. A Ravens win seals the division, and this team would love to have that off their backs heading to Cincinnati next week. If the Ravens offensive line can hold their ground, and give Joe Flacco time to throw in the pocket, the Giants could be in for a long day. But if they let their strong defensive lineman get to Flacco, it could be a long day for the Ravens. Expect the Ravens to open with a strong ground attack to open up play-action later in the game. I have the Ravens winning the game, 27-23.
Key Matchups for Giants at Ravens
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Giants WR Victor Cruz Edge: Cruz
Analysis: Manning loves Cruz, and makes him one of the better receivers in the game. While Cary has made some big plays on pass deflections, he also has the tendency to let a receiver get away from him. If that happens against Cruz, we're in trouble.
Ravens LB Brendon Ayanbadejo vs. Giants TE Martellus Bennett Edge: Ayanbadejo
Analysis: This is a close one, but Ayanbadejo has had a nice year filling this role. If he doesn't let this matchup affect other parts of his game, he'll win this one. Bennett is having a good year as well, and could very well take this one.
Ravens T Michael Oher vs. Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul Edge: Pierre-Paul
Analysis: Pierre-Paul is one of the premier pass rushers in the league, and will easily beat Oher in this matchup. Oher just can't lose it in a blowout.
Ravens WR Anquan Boldin vs. Giants CB Corey Webster Edge: Boldin
Analysis: I have a feeling Boldin will have a good day as Torrey Smith will be limited (if he plays at all) with a concussion. Webster is also known for giving up some big plays.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
LB Jameel McClain-Neck-OUT (will miss remainder of season)
S Bernard Pollard-Chest-DBT
WR Tandon Doss-Ankle-QST
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle-QST
FB Vonta Leach-Ankle-QST
LB Albert McClellan-Thigh/Shoulder-QST
RB Bernard Pierce-Head-QST
WR Torrey Smith-Head-QST
G/T Marshal Yanda-Ankle-QST
Giants
Player-Injury-Status
C David Baas-Hip/Shoulder-QST
TE Travis Beckum-Knee-QST
RB Ahmad Bradshaw-Knee/Foot-QST
S Kenny Phillips-Knee-QST
S Tyler Sash-Hamstring-QST
G Chris Snee-Hip-QST
DE Justin Tuck-Shoulder-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 9 5
Bengals 8 6
Steelers 7 7
Browns 5 9
AFC North Outlook: If the Ravens win one of the final two games, the division is theirs.The Bengals host the Steelers, with a Bengals win eliminating the Steelers from playoff contention. The Browns visit the Broncos.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report. See you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 15 2012
Last Sunday, the Ravens fell to 9-4 following yet another heart-breaking loss, a 31-28 overtime thriller against the Redskins. For the first time in three years, the Ravens have lost consecutive games. The game was a shootout from the beginning, with the two teams exchanging passing touchdowns on their first possessions. After Alfred Morris gave the 'Skins the lead back with a TD, Joe Flacco and the Ravens offense answered with two touchdowns of their own, including Anquan Boldin's 2nd of the game, to take a 21-14 lead into halftime. Two long-distance field goals from Kai Forbath brought the Redskins to within a point with a quarter remaining to play. Joe Flacco led the Ravens on a crucial late-game drive, going 62 yards in a matter of four minutes, and extending the Ravens lead to 28-20 after a Ray Rice rushing TD. But the Redskins refused to fade. Robert Griffin III, who had a least been somewhat neutralized by the Ravens defense thus far, began a drive to attempt to send the game into overtime. But his quest was cut short after a gruesome injury that proved him unable to walk, sending him to the sidelines. Fellow rookie QB Kirk Cousins entered the game to take over where RGIII left off. On third down from the Ravens 11, Cousins rolled out and floated a touchdown pass to Pierre Garcon, making it a two-point game. On the two-point conversions, the Ravens defense read pass, and Cousins made them pay. He took it himself up the middle to tie up the game. During the overtime period, the Ravens got the ball first but could not do anything. On the punt, rookie Richard Crawford returned the ball deep into Ravens territory, with punter Sam Koch hunting him down to prevent a touchdown. Just a few plays later, Kai Forbath hit from 34 yards out, giving the Ravens their second consecutive loss on a field goal. With the Bengals and Steelers both losing, a Ravens win would have sealed the division.
Player of the Game: Redskins K Kai Forbath-3/3 (49, 48, 34)
Key Takeaway from the Game: They can't finish. Right now, the Ravens cannot finish the job. They lost a very winnable game to the Steelers in the final minutes, and did it again last week in Raljon. The defense could not come up with the key stop late in the game, as they usually are able to do. The offense was dead in the second half, possibly because they "did enough" in the first half. This lack of a killer instinct does not bode well for a team looking to be playing football late in January and into February.
This Sunday, the Ravens will return home to face Peyton Manning's rejuvenated 10-3 Denver Broncos, who have won eight consecutive games. The playoff implications on both sides for this game are difficult to overlook. With a Broncos win, the Ravens will not be able to clinch a first-round bye. With a Ravens win and and at least one Patriots loss the rest of the way, the Ravens will control their own destiny for a first-round bye and a #2 seed in the conference. The Ravens have never lost at home to the Broncos, but they'll have a whole new kind of test with Manning under center. Peyton has thrown for close to 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in a comeback season for the ages. He has lead the Broncos to be the 4th ranked offense in the NFL, scoring the second-most points per game. An injury to former Ravens RB Willis McGahee has given Peyton more opportunities to pass the ball, which he is gladly accepting. Manning is known for his poise and quick decision-making, an ability that has been furthered with an offensive line that ranks second-best in the AFC in sacks. Manning has helped make WR Demaryius Thomas one of the more dangerous receiving threats in the league. Thomas has reeled in over 1,000 receiving yards and eight touchdowns on the season. Manning's other targets include Eric Decker, Jacob Tamme, and former Ravens WR Brandon Stokley. On defense, the Broncos rank in the top ten in all four major categories. Their pass rush is led by linebackers Elvis Dumervil and Von Miller, who have combined for 24 sacks on the season. They will prove quite a test for a struggling, beaten-down Ravens offensive line that has surrendered nine sacks in the past three games. The biggest question mark on the Ravens offensive line is Michael Oher, who can't seem to match himself up with any pass rusher with any kind of speed or agility. In the secondary, the Broncos are headed by the ageless Champ Bailey, who is still as productive a corner as ever. That 4th-ranked Broncos defense will be facing a Ravens offense that is undergoing a change late in the season. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron was canned, leaving way for Jim Caldwell to step in, who had been the team's quarterbacks coach prior to his upgrade. You may remember Caldwell from his days in Indianapolis, where he coached none other than Peyton Manning himself. Don't expect a major upheaval in offensive gameplanning, but expect some more no huddle, if anything. Ray Rice's touches per game dropped drastically with Cameron at the helm, so he is taking a deep breath with the change. He could be a major factor in keeping the Ravens in this game. The Ravens are about as beaten and bruised as you'll see them. Will they fall in the face of pressure or rise to the occasion?
Prediction: No one is giving the black and purple any shot to win this game. The team is surely listening. Their response is a whole different story altogether. For a team that has not fared well historically against Peyton Manning, this could be a rough afternoon. Or they could step up and inspire us all. I almost never pick against the Ravens, mainly because I think they can beat just about every team in this league. But given all the factors coming into the game, I think the Broncos have the edge. They'll win this one, 23-17.
Key Matchups for Broncos at Ravens
Ravens CB Corey Graham vs. Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas Edge: Thomas
Analysis: Thomas has a size and speed edge over Graham, and is quickly becoming one of the better receivers in the league. This matchup could prove fatal for the Ravens.
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Broncos QB Peyton Manning Edge: Manning
Analysis: Two future residents of Canton will both need to be on their game Sunday in Baltimore. Reed didn't do well reading RGIII last week, which isn't a good omen with Manning coming his way.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Broncos LB Keith Brooking Edge: Rice
Analysis: Ah, the one shining light for the Ravens. If Rice goes off, we've got a ball game. If he can't get it going, we're in some major trouble.
Ravens LT Michael Oher vs. Broncos LB Von Miller Edge: Miller
Analysis: This is a mismatch all the way. Oher has been struggling of late, while Miller is one of the better pass rushers in the league.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
LB Jameel McClain-Neck-OUT
TE Ed Dickson-Knee-DBT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle-QST
DE Arthur Jones-Shoulder-QST
FB Vonta Leach-Ankle-QST
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-QST
S Bernard Pollard-Chest-QST
CB Jimmy Smith-Abdomen-QST
LB Terrell Suggs-Biceps-QST
G/T Marshal Yanda-Ankle-QST
Broncos
Player-Injury-Status
G Chris Kuper-Ankle-QST
LB Wesley Woodyard-Ankle-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 9 4
Steelers 8 6
Bengals 7 6
Browns 5 8
AFC North Outlook: A Ravens win and the division race is over. The only situation in which the Ravens do not make the playoffs is if the Ravens lose out, and the Bengals-Steelers game next week ends in a tie. This week, the Steelers play in Dallas and the Browns host the Redskins. The Bengals beat the Eagles in Philly on Thursday Night Football.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Redskins K Kai Forbath-3/3 (49, 48, 34)
Key Takeaway from the Game: They can't finish. Right now, the Ravens cannot finish the job. They lost a very winnable game to the Steelers in the final minutes, and did it again last week in Raljon. The defense could not come up with the key stop late in the game, as they usually are able to do. The offense was dead in the second half, possibly because they "did enough" in the first half. This lack of a killer instinct does not bode well for a team looking to be playing football late in January and into February.
This Sunday, the Ravens will return home to face Peyton Manning's rejuvenated 10-3 Denver Broncos, who have won eight consecutive games. The playoff implications on both sides for this game are difficult to overlook. With a Broncos win, the Ravens will not be able to clinch a first-round bye. With a Ravens win and and at least one Patriots loss the rest of the way, the Ravens will control their own destiny for a first-round bye and a #2 seed in the conference. The Ravens have never lost at home to the Broncos, but they'll have a whole new kind of test with Manning under center. Peyton has thrown for close to 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in a comeback season for the ages. He has lead the Broncos to be the 4th ranked offense in the NFL, scoring the second-most points per game. An injury to former Ravens RB Willis McGahee has given Peyton more opportunities to pass the ball, which he is gladly accepting. Manning is known for his poise and quick decision-making, an ability that has been furthered with an offensive line that ranks second-best in the AFC in sacks. Manning has helped make WR Demaryius Thomas one of the more dangerous receiving threats in the league. Thomas has reeled in over 1,000 receiving yards and eight touchdowns on the season. Manning's other targets include Eric Decker, Jacob Tamme, and former Ravens WR Brandon Stokley. On defense, the Broncos rank in the top ten in all four major categories. Their pass rush is led by linebackers Elvis Dumervil and Von Miller, who have combined for 24 sacks on the season. They will prove quite a test for a struggling, beaten-down Ravens offensive line that has surrendered nine sacks in the past three games. The biggest question mark on the Ravens offensive line is Michael Oher, who can't seem to match himself up with any pass rusher with any kind of speed or agility. In the secondary, the Broncos are headed by the ageless Champ Bailey, who is still as productive a corner as ever. That 4th-ranked Broncos defense will be facing a Ravens offense that is undergoing a change late in the season. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron was canned, leaving way for Jim Caldwell to step in, who had been the team's quarterbacks coach prior to his upgrade. You may remember Caldwell from his days in Indianapolis, where he coached none other than Peyton Manning himself. Don't expect a major upheaval in offensive gameplanning, but expect some more no huddle, if anything. Ray Rice's touches per game dropped drastically with Cameron at the helm, so he is taking a deep breath with the change. He could be a major factor in keeping the Ravens in this game. The Ravens are about as beaten and bruised as you'll see them. Will they fall in the face of pressure or rise to the occasion?
Prediction: No one is giving the black and purple any shot to win this game. The team is surely listening. Their response is a whole different story altogether. For a team that has not fared well historically against Peyton Manning, this could be a rough afternoon. Or they could step up and inspire us all. I almost never pick against the Ravens, mainly because I think they can beat just about every team in this league. But given all the factors coming into the game, I think the Broncos have the edge. They'll win this one, 23-17.
Key Matchups for Broncos at Ravens
Ravens CB Corey Graham vs. Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas Edge: Thomas
Analysis: Thomas has a size and speed edge over Graham, and is quickly becoming one of the better receivers in the league. This matchup could prove fatal for the Ravens.
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Broncos QB Peyton Manning Edge: Manning
Analysis: Two future residents of Canton will both need to be on their game Sunday in Baltimore. Reed didn't do well reading RGIII last week, which isn't a good omen with Manning coming his way.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Broncos LB Keith Brooking Edge: Rice
Analysis: Ah, the one shining light for the Ravens. If Rice goes off, we've got a ball game. If he can't get it going, we're in some major trouble.
Ravens LT Michael Oher vs. Broncos LB Von Miller Edge: Miller
Analysis: This is a mismatch all the way. Oher has been struggling of late, while Miller is one of the better pass rushers in the league.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
LB Jameel McClain-Neck-OUT
TE Ed Dickson-Knee-DBT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle-QST
DE Arthur Jones-Shoulder-QST
FB Vonta Leach-Ankle-QST
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-QST
S Bernard Pollard-Chest-QST
CB Jimmy Smith-Abdomen-QST
LB Terrell Suggs-Biceps-QST
G/T Marshal Yanda-Ankle-QST
Broncos
Player-Injury-Status
G Chris Kuper-Ankle-QST
LB Wesley Woodyard-Ankle-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 9 4
Steelers 8 6
Bengals 7 6
Browns 5 8
AFC North Outlook: A Ravens win and the division race is over. The only situation in which the Ravens do not make the playoffs is if the Ravens lose out, and the Bengals-Steelers game next week ends in a tie. This week, the Steelers play in Dallas and the Browns host the Redskins. The Bengals beat the Eagles in Philly on Thursday Night Football.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 14 2012
Last week, the Ravens suffered a heart-breaking home loss to the Steelers, 23-20, giving the Ravens their first home loss since 2010, also against the Steelers. The teams exchanged field goals to begin the game, but the Ravens would waste no time taking the lead. A Justin Tucker field goal coupled with Anquan Boldin's second touchdown catch of the season helped the Ravens jump out to a 13-6 halftime lead. On their first drive of the second half, Isaac Redman found a hole and rushed sixteen yards to the end zone, tying the game. But late in the third, Ray Rice bounced to the outside and sped 34 yards to the end zone, giving the Ravens the lead with a quarter left to play. After a key interception by Ed Reed, the Ravens gave the ball back when Joe Flacco was sacked, fumbling the ball and giving the Steelers prime field positon. Just over a minute later, Charlie Batch found Heath Miller in the end zone to tie the game once again. The Ravens were forced to punt on their next drive, giving the Steelers the ball back with 6:14 remaining on the clock. Batch used his time management skills to help drive the Steelers down the field, and set up a 42-yard game-winning field goal as time expired. The Steelers took home a win that prevented the Ravens from clinching a spot in the playoffs. Batch, who has thrown in his 15-year career about as many passes as Drew Brees does in two typical seasons, got an emotional boost to his waning life as a backup NFL quarterback.
Player of the Game: Steelers QB Charlie Batch-25/36 for 276 yards, 1 passing touchdown, 1 interception
Key Takeaway from the Game: In reality, this loss isn't crucial in terms of the Ravens' playoff race. But, as with every loss to the Steelers, it hurts. Joe Flacco underperformed, giving his doubters another moment to point there fingers at and scream "you see" and seem smart. Will Flacco ever be the elite quarterback he once seemed destined to be? Who knows. But here is what we do know. Joe Cool has taken us to four consecutive playoff appearances (almost five), two AFC championship games, and a 53-23 record. No one knows what we'll say of Flacco ten years from now, but right now, he is finding a way to get the job done.
Ray Rice touched the ball thirteen times on Sunday. Yes, you read that right. And yes, that's unacceptable, but it isn't as easy as just giving him the ball. Cam Cameron needs to find opportunities for Rice to get open all over the field, both on the ground and out of the backfield. Our main offensive weapon should have a main role in the offense.
Next Sunday, the Ravens travel to face the other team from Maryland, the up-and-coming 6-6 Washington Redskins. The recent irrelevancy of the Redskins has given Ravens fans a lot to brag about, but the "Battle of the Beltways" has taken on a new life this year. The 'Skins are lead by their mobile rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III, who is just as much of a threat with his feet on the ground as his arm is in the air. RGIII has rushed for over 700 yards this season, and is tied for the team lead with six rushing touchdowns, while only turning the ball over six times. On offense, the Redskins' attack is centered upon their ability to use the play-action to set up the passing game and Griffin III's running game. Their upstart "pistol" offense makes it difficult for defenses to read the offense's play call. Don't discount RB Alfred Morris, whose physical but elusive running approach could prove to be kryptonite against a Ravens defense that has struggled with tackling the ball-carrier. This style of offense will be put to the test again against an experienced Ravens defense. RGIII lives on the ability to trick the safety into going the wrong direction. Ed Reed lives on his ability to read where the quarterback is going. You can see where I'm going with this. But the Redskins are a lot less daunting on defense, where injuries have crippled their early success. They are ranked next to last in the league in passing yards allowed per game, which will allow Flacco to open up the playbook. Their 4th ranked rush defense is lead by a few of the more underrated defenders in the league, including LB Ryan Kerrigan and veteran LB London Fletcher. You can expect Ray Rice to see some burn out of the backfield as Flacco and Cameron hope to avoid dealing with the rush, and get the ball away quicker, something Flacco had trouble with against the Steelers.
Prediction: All in all, the Ravens could have a really rough day if they are unable to put a lid on RGIII. If he has his way, who knows how ugly this could get. But I don't think it will get too ridiculous. On defense, the Ravens need to be able to read the play-action. I think they may have some struggles, but they'll pull it together when they need to. I have the Ravens winning, 27-23. Also remember that the Ravens haven't lost consecutive games since 2009.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Redskins
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Redskins QB Robert Griffin III Edge: Push
Analysis: Hands down the best matchup on the field Sunday. As I mentioned earlier, these two are each other's foil. Reed is the key to neutralizing RGIII. RGIII is the key to neutralizing Reed. Get your popcorn ready.
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Redskins WR Santana Moss Edge: Moss
Analysis: Moss is one of the best veteran receivers in the league, and has formed a relationship with RGIII that proves lethal to opposing corner-backs. Williams won't be able to keep up with him for sixty minutes.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Redskins LB Ryan Kerrigan Edge: Rice
Analysis: After a down week against the Steelers, Rice could break out Sunday at FedEx. After all, Rice leads all other NFL running backs with 1,646 rushing yards in December and January since 2009.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Redskins CB DeAngelo Hall Edge: Smith
Analysis: Smith can break out in this game against a weak Redskins secondary. Hall is not the corner-back he once was, and has had major self-control issues this season.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
TE Ed Dickson-Knee-OUT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle-OUT
CB Jimmy Smith-Abdomen-DBT
CB Asa Jackson-Shoulder-QST
DB Chris Johnson-Thigh-QST
LB Terrell Suggs-Biceps-QST
Redskins
Player-Injury-Status
LB London Fletcher-Ankle-QST
CB DeAngelo Hall-Ankle/Knee-QST
OT Trent Williams-Thigh-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 9 3
Steelers 7 5
Bengals 7 5
Browns 4 8
AFC North Outlook: The Ravens can clinch the division with a win and losses by the Steelers (vs. Chargers) and the Bengals (vs. Cowboys). The Browns will host the Chiefs.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Steelers QB Charlie Batch-25/36 for 276 yards, 1 passing touchdown, 1 interception
Key Takeaway from the Game: In reality, this loss isn't crucial in terms of the Ravens' playoff race. But, as with every loss to the Steelers, it hurts. Joe Flacco underperformed, giving his doubters another moment to point there fingers at and scream "you see" and seem smart. Will Flacco ever be the elite quarterback he once seemed destined to be? Who knows. But here is what we do know. Joe Cool has taken us to four consecutive playoff appearances (almost five), two AFC championship games, and a 53-23 record. No one knows what we'll say of Flacco ten years from now, but right now, he is finding a way to get the job done.
Ray Rice touched the ball thirteen times on Sunday. Yes, you read that right. And yes, that's unacceptable, but it isn't as easy as just giving him the ball. Cam Cameron needs to find opportunities for Rice to get open all over the field, both on the ground and out of the backfield. Our main offensive weapon should have a main role in the offense.
Next Sunday, the Ravens travel to face the other team from Maryland, the up-and-coming 6-6 Washington Redskins. The recent irrelevancy of the Redskins has given Ravens fans a lot to brag about, but the "Battle of the Beltways" has taken on a new life this year. The 'Skins are lead by their mobile rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III, who is just as much of a threat with his feet on the ground as his arm is in the air. RGIII has rushed for over 700 yards this season, and is tied for the team lead with six rushing touchdowns, while only turning the ball over six times. On offense, the Redskins' attack is centered upon their ability to use the play-action to set up the passing game and Griffin III's running game. Their upstart "pistol" offense makes it difficult for defenses to read the offense's play call. Don't discount RB Alfred Morris, whose physical but elusive running approach could prove to be kryptonite against a Ravens defense that has struggled with tackling the ball-carrier. This style of offense will be put to the test again against an experienced Ravens defense. RGIII lives on the ability to trick the safety into going the wrong direction. Ed Reed lives on his ability to read where the quarterback is going. You can see where I'm going with this. But the Redskins are a lot less daunting on defense, where injuries have crippled their early success. They are ranked next to last in the league in passing yards allowed per game, which will allow Flacco to open up the playbook. Their 4th ranked rush defense is lead by a few of the more underrated defenders in the league, including LB Ryan Kerrigan and veteran LB London Fletcher. You can expect Ray Rice to see some burn out of the backfield as Flacco and Cameron hope to avoid dealing with the rush, and get the ball away quicker, something Flacco had trouble with against the Steelers.
Prediction: All in all, the Ravens could have a really rough day if they are unable to put a lid on RGIII. If he has his way, who knows how ugly this could get. But I don't think it will get too ridiculous. On defense, the Ravens need to be able to read the play-action. I think they may have some struggles, but they'll pull it together when they need to. I have the Ravens winning, 27-23. Also remember that the Ravens haven't lost consecutive games since 2009.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Redskins
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Redskins QB Robert Griffin III Edge: Push
Analysis: Hands down the best matchup on the field Sunday. As I mentioned earlier, these two are each other's foil. Reed is the key to neutralizing RGIII. RGIII is the key to neutralizing Reed. Get your popcorn ready.
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Redskins WR Santana Moss Edge: Moss
Analysis: Moss is one of the best veteran receivers in the league, and has formed a relationship with RGIII that proves lethal to opposing corner-backs. Williams won't be able to keep up with him for sixty minutes.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Redskins LB Ryan Kerrigan Edge: Rice
Analysis: After a down week against the Steelers, Rice could break out Sunday at FedEx. After all, Rice leads all other NFL running backs with 1,646 rushing yards in December and January since 2009.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Redskins CB DeAngelo Hall Edge: Smith
Analysis: Smith can break out in this game against a weak Redskins secondary. Hall is not the corner-back he once was, and has had major self-control issues this season.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
TE Ed Dickson-Knee-OUT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle-OUT
CB Jimmy Smith-Abdomen-DBT
CB Asa Jackson-Shoulder-QST
DB Chris Johnson-Thigh-QST
LB Terrell Suggs-Biceps-QST
Redskins
Player-Injury-Status
LB London Fletcher-Ankle-QST
CB DeAngelo Hall-Ankle/Knee-QST
OT Trent Williams-Thigh-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 9 3
Steelers 7 5
Bengals 7 5
Browns 4 8
AFC North Outlook: The Ravens can clinch the division with a win and losses by the Steelers (vs. Chargers) and the Bengals (vs. Cowboys). The Browns will host the Chiefs.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 13 2012
Last Sunday night, the Ravens pulled off one of the most remarkable and miraculous wins in franchise history, finishing off the Chargers in overtime, 16-13. The Chargers drew first blood, putting up 10 points in the second quarter to take a two-possession lead into halftime. Justin Tucker put the Ravens on the board in the third quarter, leaving the Ravens trailing 10-3 with a quarter remaining. The Ravens' failure to convert on fourth and short from deep in Chargers territory gave the Chargers momentum, and the chance to extend their lead. They did so, making it 13-3 on a field goal from Nick Novak. Joe Flacco proceeded to lead the Ravens eighty yards on nine plays, finishing the drive off with a touchdown pass to Dennis Pitta, giving the Ravens defense an opportunity to stop the Chargers and therefore give the offense a chance to win or send the game into overtime. The defense did their part, and the Ravens took over possession at their own fourty with three minutes remaining. After a crucial holding penalty in Chargers territory, Joe Flacco fumbled the ball on 3rd and 20. The Ravens recovered, bringing up a decisive 4th and 29, a highly unlikely conversion. If the Ravens convert, they still have a chance to win. A failed conversion, and the game is all but over. After Flacco found no one open down the field, he effectively raised the white flag, checking the ball down to Ray Rice. Rice reversed up-field, made three Chargers miss, and continued up-field towards the marker. He then received a key block from Anquan Boldin, and propelled himself past the marker. What followed this most unlikely play was ten minutes of reviewing the play and repositioning the ball. After the review and the measure, Rice had picked up the first down by a yard in one of the greatest moments of sheer will you will ever see. Rice self-proclaimed "Hey diddle diddle, Ray Rice up the middle" will go down in Ravens lore forever. A few plays later, Tucker hit a 38-yard field goal, sending the game into overtime. The Ravens defense stepped up again, stopping the Chargers twice, leaving it up to Flacco and the offense. With five minutes remaining in the overtime period, the Ravens took over deep in their own territory. On third down from the Chargers 47, a spectacular catch by Torrey Smith put the Ravens in field goal territory. Coach Harbaugh decided to make the Chargers burn their timeouts, leaving them with no timeouts and little time in case of a Tucker miss. Well Tucker didn't miss, and the Ravens took home a win for the ages.
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Ray Rice-97 rushing yards, 67 receiving yards
Key to the Win: What can you say? This was a great team effort in all three phases of the game. The offense put up just enough points when it mattered, despite struggling early. The defense made key stops late in the game to give the offense its opportunities. On special teams, rookie Justin Tucker knocked through two high-pressure field goals to tie, and later win, the game. Tucker now has two game-winning field goals this year (Patriots).
Next Sunday, the Ravens will host the 6-5 Steelers in a reprisal of a game we saw just two weeks ago. The Ravens, of course, pulled out a close 13-10 that night in Pittsburgh. But this game will be different that of two weeks ago. Byron Leftwich hasn't played since he broke two ribs in that game. Instead, veteran backup Charlie Batch will be under center for the Steelers. Batch started his first game last week in Cleveland, and the Steelers lost 20-14, turning the ball over an embarrassing eight times, including five lost fumbles. The Steelers' 37-year old quarterback was picked off three times. All this against a defense inferior to that of the Ravens. After the Ravens picked up a season-high six sacks last week against the Chargers, expect more blitzing against a depleted Steelers offensive line. If Batch is pressured all game and the Ravens can strip the ball the way the Browns did, this one should be in the bag. But it isn't that easy, and the Steelers got good news on the other side of the ball. The top-ranked Steelers defense will be welcoming back Pro Bowl S Troy Polamalu, who has been sidelined since Week 5 with a calf injury. The Ravens offense went without a touchdown in Pittsburgh, but has scored 36 points per game at home. Back in the game two weeks ago, one of Flacco's favorite targets, TE Dennis Pitta, was knocked out of the game on the very first play. His presence this week could help Flacco find more of a rhythm, especially with fellow TE Ed Dickson unlikely to suit up. Ray Rice was also limited in that game, so his productivity could once again be in question. The question will be, if Rice struggles early, does Cam Cameron continue to pound the ball, or does he give up on the running game and let Flacco throw the ball 50 times? That answer will be crucial to a sound game-plan offensively for the Ravens.
Prediction: With the long-haired Polamalu looming, Flacco's ability to audible will be put to the test. If he can avoid Polamalu and get things going, the Steelers injury-ridden offense will not be able to keep up. The key to stopping them is limiting the ground game and maintaining pressure on the quarterback. I have the Ravens pulling out a 23-13 win.
Key Matchups for Steelers at Ravens
Ravens LB Dannell Ellerbe vs. Steelers RB Jonathan Dwyer Edge: Ellerbe
Analysis: Ellerbe has been outstanding in recent weeks, and will continue to do so, limiting Dwyer and forcing him to fumble once or twice.
Ravens CB Corey Graham vs. Steelers WR Antonio Brown Edge: Brown
Analysis: This is a close one. Brown didn't play in the first game, and the Ravens consider him the most dangerous receiver the Steelers have. He could be a difference-maker. But keep in mind Graham had a pick in the first game.
Ravens QB Joe Flacco vs. Steelers S Troy Polamalu Edge: Polamalu
Analysis: Flacco doesn't have to win this matchup, he just can't get blown out. He can't let Polamalu come off his blind side, as he had done so well. Smart audibles could help avoid game-changing turnovers.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Steelers CB Keenan Lewis Edge: Smith
Analysis: After Lewis trash-talked Smith before the last game, Smith was rendered a non-factor. He will make up for it at home in Baltimore, catching a key touchdown.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
CB Jimmy Smith-Abs-OUT
TE Ed Dickson-Knee-DBT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle/Knee/Finger-QST
DB Chris Johnson-Thigh-QST
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-QST
Steelers
Player-Injury-Status
OT Mike Adams-Ankle-OUT
QB Ben Roethlisberger-Shoulder-OUT
QB Byron Leftwich-Ribs-OUT
LB LaMarr Woodley-Anke-OUT
G/T Willie Colon-Knee-QST
WR Jerricho Cotchery-Ribs-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 9 2
Steelers 6 5
Bengals 6 5
Browns 3 8
AFC North Outlook: With a win and a Bengals loss, the Ravens would clinch their second consecutive AFC North title. The Bengals play the Chargers in San Diego. The Browns play at the Oakland Raiders.
News: For some good news, Ravens LB Ray Lewis, who has been out with torn triceps since Week 6, is expected to return for Week 15, when the Ravens will host Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Ray Rice-97 rushing yards, 67 receiving yards
Key to the Win: What can you say? This was a great team effort in all three phases of the game. The offense put up just enough points when it mattered, despite struggling early. The defense made key stops late in the game to give the offense its opportunities. On special teams, rookie Justin Tucker knocked through two high-pressure field goals to tie, and later win, the game. Tucker now has two game-winning field goals this year (Patriots).
Next Sunday, the Ravens will host the 6-5 Steelers in a reprisal of a game we saw just two weeks ago. The Ravens, of course, pulled out a close 13-10 that night in Pittsburgh. But this game will be different that of two weeks ago. Byron Leftwich hasn't played since he broke two ribs in that game. Instead, veteran backup Charlie Batch will be under center for the Steelers. Batch started his first game last week in Cleveland, and the Steelers lost 20-14, turning the ball over an embarrassing eight times, including five lost fumbles. The Steelers' 37-year old quarterback was picked off three times. All this against a defense inferior to that of the Ravens. After the Ravens picked up a season-high six sacks last week against the Chargers, expect more blitzing against a depleted Steelers offensive line. If Batch is pressured all game and the Ravens can strip the ball the way the Browns did, this one should be in the bag. But it isn't that easy, and the Steelers got good news on the other side of the ball. The top-ranked Steelers defense will be welcoming back Pro Bowl S Troy Polamalu, who has been sidelined since Week 5 with a calf injury. The Ravens offense went without a touchdown in Pittsburgh, but has scored 36 points per game at home. Back in the game two weeks ago, one of Flacco's favorite targets, TE Dennis Pitta, was knocked out of the game on the very first play. His presence this week could help Flacco find more of a rhythm, especially with fellow TE Ed Dickson unlikely to suit up. Ray Rice was also limited in that game, so his productivity could once again be in question. The question will be, if Rice struggles early, does Cam Cameron continue to pound the ball, or does he give up on the running game and let Flacco throw the ball 50 times? That answer will be crucial to a sound game-plan offensively for the Ravens.
Prediction: With the long-haired Polamalu looming, Flacco's ability to audible will be put to the test. If he can avoid Polamalu and get things going, the Steelers injury-ridden offense will not be able to keep up. The key to stopping them is limiting the ground game and maintaining pressure on the quarterback. I have the Ravens pulling out a 23-13 win.
Key Matchups for Steelers at Ravens
Ravens LB Dannell Ellerbe vs. Steelers RB Jonathan Dwyer Edge: Ellerbe
Analysis: Ellerbe has been outstanding in recent weeks, and will continue to do so, limiting Dwyer and forcing him to fumble once or twice.
Ravens CB Corey Graham vs. Steelers WR Antonio Brown Edge: Brown
Analysis: This is a close one. Brown didn't play in the first game, and the Ravens consider him the most dangerous receiver the Steelers have. He could be a difference-maker. But keep in mind Graham had a pick in the first game.
Ravens QB Joe Flacco vs. Steelers S Troy Polamalu Edge: Polamalu
Analysis: Flacco doesn't have to win this matchup, he just can't get blown out. He can't let Polamalu come off his blind side, as he had done so well. Smart audibles could help avoid game-changing turnovers.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Steelers CB Keenan Lewis Edge: Smith
Analysis: After Lewis trash-talked Smith before the last game, Smith was rendered a non-factor. He will make up for it at home in Baltimore, catching a key touchdown.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
CB Jimmy Smith-Abs-OUT
TE Ed Dickson-Knee-DBT
LB Dannell Ellerbe-Ankle/Knee/Finger-QST
DB Chris Johnson-Thigh-QST
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-QST
Steelers
Player-Injury-Status
OT Mike Adams-Ankle-OUT
QB Ben Roethlisberger-Shoulder-OUT
QB Byron Leftwich-Ribs-OUT
LB LaMarr Woodley-Anke-OUT
G/T Willie Colon-Knee-QST
WR Jerricho Cotchery-Ribs-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 9 2
Steelers 6 5
Bengals 6 5
Browns 3 8
AFC North Outlook: With a win and a Bengals loss, the Ravens would clinch their second consecutive AFC North title. The Bengals play the Chargers in San Diego. The Browns play at the Oakland Raiders.
News: For some good news, Ravens LB Ray Lewis, who has been out with torn triceps since Week 6, is expected to return for Week 15, when the Ravens will host Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 12 2012
Last Sunday, the Ravens picked up a statement 13-10 win over the rival Steelers in Pittsburgh in front of a national audience. Now, seven of the last nine games between the two teams have ended with a 3-point differential. Byron Leftwich was at the helm for the Steelers with the injury to Ben Roethlisberger. I remarked last week that Leftwich is one of the slowest quarterbacks in the league. Well, he was apparently adamant at proving everyone wrong. On just the third play of the game from scrimmage, Leftwich rolled out to the left, dodging Ravens defenders on his way to a 31-yard touchdown run in one of the more shocking plays of the game. During his celebration, Leftwich fell to the ground and injured his shoulder. He would later suffer another injury, breaking two of his ribs, affecting his play throughout most of the second half. A few minutes later, the Ravens put 3 points on the board following a Steelers fumble forced by Chris Johnson, playing his first game in the purple and black. After the Ravens defense forced another three and out, the Steelers were forced to punt from deep in their own territory. Jacoby Jones fielded the punt at the Ravens 37, and then raced 63 yards to the end zone to put the Ravens on top. He finished the run off with one of his signature dances. Jones now has 3 special teams touchdowns on the season, including two in as many games. Defense dominated the second quarter, and the Ravens took a 10-7 lead into halftime. On the Steelers' second possession of the second half, Byron Leftwich led his offense into Ravens territory. But an ill-advised pass was picked off by Corey Graham, giving the Ravens the ball with good field position. The Ravens once again capitalized on a Steelers turnover, cashing this one in for another Justin Tucker field goal. In the final minute of the third quarter, the Steelers kicked a field goal of their own, making the score 13-10. The Steelers' best chance to even up the game came with just over four minutes remaining. On a third-and-long, S James Ihedigbo stormed untouched into the backfield, brutally sacking Leftwich from his blind-side and giving the Ravens the ball back. The Steelers would attempt a last-resort "Music City Miracle" play with a minute remaining to no avail, and the Ravens took a two-game lead in the AFC North.
Player of the Game: Ravens CB Corey Graham-4 tackles, 1 interception
Key to the Win: This was your classic Ravens-Steelers matchup. The teams once again made their case to be the best rivalry in football. In my opinion, you're a moron if you don't think it is. The Ravens won this game because they finally put pressure on the quarterback, no matter how immobile Leftwich is.
This Sunday, the Ravens will make a cross-country trip to San Diego to take on the struggling 4-6 Chargers. You may remember back to last year's game in San Diego, where the Chargers embarrassed the Ravens, winning 34-14 on national television. Revenge will certainly be on the minds of some of these Ravens. The Chargers, however, have a funny Ravens feel to them this year. Former Ravens Le'Ron McClain, Jarret Johnson, and Jared Gaither all suit up for the powder blue. Gaither was placed on the IR this week, and will miss the remainder of the season. The Chargers offense has been head-scratchingly inconsistent this season. QB Phillip Rivers shows random signs of brillance, then throws a pass that makes you question his sanity. Rivers has thrown an AFC-high 14 interceptions this year, while also fumbling the ball 9 times (4 times lost). Rivers and his penchant for turnovers could be a major factor in this game. RB Ryan Matthews, who has also shown signs of potential, has been limited by his weak offensive line. Matthews and the Chargers running game ranks 23rd in the NFL in yards per game. The most dangerous aspect of the Chargers offense is their receiving corps. Danario Alexander has been one of the best surprises in the league this season, catching three touchdowns with nearly 300 receiving yards. The Chargers are complete with tall, physical receivers that will pose serious challenges to a smaller Ravens pass defense. If the Ravens want to keep up with some of these receivers, they will need to make up for their size with skill. Defensively, the Chargers are 3rd in the NFL in rushing yards per game with the help of Jarret Johnson off the edge. Their young and powerful front seven will prove difficult if the Ravens want to establish a running game. Cam Cameron may choose to go after a much weaker Chargers secondary to pick up major yardage. The Chargers have suffered some emotional losses this season, and the Ravens will hope to avoid a trap game sandwiched between two emotional games against the Steelers. Don't overlook these Chargers.
Prediction: This will be close and uncomfortable. But if you have been watching the Ravens this season, that's nothing new. The Chargers have a good chance at winning this game, but I think Phillip Rivers will make one too many mistakes, and the Ravens will ultimately bring home a 27-23 win.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Chargers
Ravens CB Corey Graham vs. Chargers WR Danario Alexander Edge: Alexander
Analysis: Graham was all over the ball last week, and if he can do that again, this matchup is his. But Alexander could prove too big and too physical for the smaller Graham.
Ravens LB Jameel McClain vs. Chargers RB Ryan Matthews Edge: McClain
Analysis: Matthews often can't find the room to create holes for himself, leaving McClain and the rest of the Ravens rushing defense to prey on Matthews in the backfield.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Chargers LB Jarret Johnson Edge: Push
Analysis: Two of the most talented at their respective positions, Rice has a knack for finding the hole and bursting through it, while Johnson fills up those holes. This one will be fun.
Ravens QB Joe Flacco vs. Chargers S Eric Weddle Edge: Flacco
Analysis: Picking Flacco to win this rests on his ability to avoid his usual road struggles and exploit a weak Chargers secondary.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
CB Jimmy Smith-Abs-OUT
CB Chris Johnson-Thigh-DBT
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-QST
Chargers
Player-Injury-Status
WR/KR Eddie Royal-Hamstring-OUT
OT Jared Gaither-Groin-OUT
LB Larry English-Calf-OUT
TE Dante Rosario-Hamstring-DBT
DE Tyronne Green-Hamstring-DBT
DT Aubrayo Franklin-Knee-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 8 2
Steelers 6 4
Bengals 5 5
Browns 2 8
AFC North Outlook: The Ravens are in a great position, leading the Steelers by two games, and currently holding on to the tie-breaker. The Bengals are beginning to recover from early struggles, and will play the Raiders at home this week. The Browns will host the Steelers in an old rivalry game.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Ravens CB Corey Graham-4 tackles, 1 interception
Key to the Win: This was your classic Ravens-Steelers matchup. The teams once again made their case to be the best rivalry in football. In my opinion, you're a moron if you don't think it is. The Ravens won this game because they finally put pressure on the quarterback, no matter how immobile Leftwich is.
This Sunday, the Ravens will make a cross-country trip to San Diego to take on the struggling 4-6 Chargers. You may remember back to last year's game in San Diego, where the Chargers embarrassed the Ravens, winning 34-14 on national television. Revenge will certainly be on the minds of some of these Ravens. The Chargers, however, have a funny Ravens feel to them this year. Former Ravens Le'Ron McClain, Jarret Johnson, and Jared Gaither all suit up for the powder blue. Gaither was placed on the IR this week, and will miss the remainder of the season. The Chargers offense has been head-scratchingly inconsistent this season. QB Phillip Rivers shows random signs of brillance, then throws a pass that makes you question his sanity. Rivers has thrown an AFC-high 14 interceptions this year, while also fumbling the ball 9 times (4 times lost). Rivers and his penchant for turnovers could be a major factor in this game. RB Ryan Matthews, who has also shown signs of potential, has been limited by his weak offensive line. Matthews and the Chargers running game ranks 23rd in the NFL in yards per game. The most dangerous aspect of the Chargers offense is their receiving corps. Danario Alexander has been one of the best surprises in the league this season, catching three touchdowns with nearly 300 receiving yards. The Chargers are complete with tall, physical receivers that will pose serious challenges to a smaller Ravens pass defense. If the Ravens want to keep up with some of these receivers, they will need to make up for their size with skill. Defensively, the Chargers are 3rd in the NFL in rushing yards per game with the help of Jarret Johnson off the edge. Their young and powerful front seven will prove difficult if the Ravens want to establish a running game. Cam Cameron may choose to go after a much weaker Chargers secondary to pick up major yardage. The Chargers have suffered some emotional losses this season, and the Ravens will hope to avoid a trap game sandwiched between two emotional games against the Steelers. Don't overlook these Chargers.
Prediction: This will be close and uncomfortable. But if you have been watching the Ravens this season, that's nothing new. The Chargers have a good chance at winning this game, but I think Phillip Rivers will make one too many mistakes, and the Ravens will ultimately bring home a 27-23 win.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Chargers
Ravens CB Corey Graham vs. Chargers WR Danario Alexander Edge: Alexander
Analysis: Graham was all over the ball last week, and if he can do that again, this matchup is his. But Alexander could prove too big and too physical for the smaller Graham.
Ravens LB Jameel McClain vs. Chargers RB Ryan Matthews Edge: McClain
Analysis: Matthews often can't find the room to create holes for himself, leaving McClain and the rest of the Ravens rushing defense to prey on Matthews in the backfield.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Chargers LB Jarret Johnson Edge: Push
Analysis: Two of the most talented at their respective positions, Rice has a knack for finding the hole and bursting through it, while Johnson fills up those holes. This one will be fun.
Ravens QB Joe Flacco vs. Chargers S Eric Weddle Edge: Flacco
Analysis: Picking Flacco to win this rests on his ability to avoid his usual road struggles and exploit a weak Chargers secondary.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
CB Jimmy Smith-Abs-OUT
CB Chris Johnson-Thigh-DBT
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-QST
Chargers
Player-Injury-Status
WR/KR Eddie Royal-Hamstring-OUT
OT Jared Gaither-Groin-OUT
LB Larry English-Calf-OUT
TE Dante Rosario-Hamstring-DBT
DE Tyronne Green-Hamstring-DBT
DT Aubrayo Franklin-Knee-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 8 2
Steelers 6 4
Bengals 5 5
Browns 2 8
AFC North Outlook: The Ravens are in a great position, leading the Steelers by two games, and currently holding on to the tie-breaker. The Bengals are beginning to recover from early struggles, and will play the Raiders at home this week. The Browns will host the Steelers in an old rivalry game.
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 11 2012
Last week, the Ravens put a thrashing on the Oakland Raiders, winning in convincing 55-20 fashion. On the way, the Ravens set a franchise record for most points scored in a game. The team started off slowly, putting up 10 points in the first quarter, including a quarterback sneak that put Joe Flacco in the end zone for a touchdown. After a Raiders field goal, Flacco drove the Ravens down the field and finished it off with a touchdown pass to his new favorite target, Dennis Pitta. Pitta and fellow TE Ed Dickson combined for 7 of Flacco's 21 completions, and 126 of his 341 yards. The Raiders finally found the end zone in the closing minutes of the first half on a catch-and-run 55-yard score by Darrius Heyward-Bey, Maryland alumni and a former teammate of Torrey Smith. The two exchanged their jerseys following the game. The Ravens made sure they responded, as Flacco drove the offense 80 yards in just over a minute. Ray Rice finished the drive with a 7-yard run on a beautifully-executed play. At the half, the Ravens held a commanding 27-10 lead. In the first minutes of the second half, the Ravens attempted to step on the Raiders' throats. Joe Flacco launched a 47-yard touchdown pass to Torrey Smith to extend the Ravens' lead. Flacco's deep-field accuracy Sunday was the best I've ever seen from him. After the Raiders' responded by splitting the Ravens' secondary for a score, Flacco proved that his day was not yet done. He found Smith once again, this time from 20 yards out, to give the Ravens a 41-17 lead. The offense had put up points, the defense had limited the Raiders, the only thing missing was a special teams score. Well, we got two. It all started on the Ravens' next drive. When the Ravens failed to convert on third down deep in Raiders territory, Raiders CB Joselio Hanson began celebrating the stop by getting in Anquan Boldin's face and repeatedly signaling an incomplete pass (Boldin was the intended receiver on the play). This prompted what could be one of the great images of the season. Boldin gave Hanson the classic "in-your-face," waving his index finger at the scoreboard to show the Ravens' dominating lead. In what was possibly a subtle act of retribution for Hanson's actions, the Ravens faked a field goal on fourth down, and punter Sam Koch rushed 7 yards untouched into the end zone. Following another Raiders' field goal, the Ravens put up their other special teams score, the final score of the game. Jacoby Jones caught the ball 5 yards into the end zone, and followed his blockers 100 more yards, untouched, to finish off the afternoon. It was Jones' second kickoff return for a touchdown this year. He was subsequently named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week.
Player of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-21/33 for 341 yards, 3 passing touchdowns, 1 rushing touchdown
Honorable Mention: Ravens offensive coordinator Cam Cameron-I have been one of those Cameron doubters, as have many. From top to bottom, this may have been the greatest game-plan he has concocted as a Raven. Kudos to Cam.
Key to the Win: The Raiders had no idea what they were in for when they ran onto the gridiron, and the Ravens took advantage of it. This was a complete team win. Most complaints about this game would be knit-picking.
Next Sunday, the greatest rivalry in the NFL will be renewed. The first of two matchups in just three weeks against the Steelers will be Sunday night in front of a national audience. The Steelers are 6-3 on the year, just one game back of the first-place Ravens in the AFC North. But this game will be different. This could be a look into the near future of this great rivalry. Both defenses, known for their physicality, will be without their respective leaders. Ray Lewis of course, for the Ravens, and Troy Polamalu for the Steelers, who has missed five consecutive games with a calf injury. Despite the loss, the Steelers have not missed a beat this year on defense. They rank first in the NFL in yards given up per game and passing yards given up per game. This will present a large challenge for a Ravens offense reeling off of an explosion against the Raiders. But those points last week mean nothing if they can't back it up in this game. The Steelers' offense is a whole different story. Their stalwart leader, Ben Roethlisberger, was sidelined last week with injuries to his throwing shoulder and ribs. He will miss this game and possibly more. Many people have argued that Roethlisberger's toughness will propel him to play this game, but they are sadly misinformed. Big Ben's rib is dangerously close to his heart, and if they touch each other, it could become life-threatening. As for his shoulder, it's not a matter of toughness, yet a matter of "Can you throw the football?" Ben's replacement will be the highly-touted but disappointing Byron Leftwich, a top-10 draft pick out of Marshall in 2003 who never realized his potential. Leftwich is notoriously sedentary in the pocket, and has been called one of the least mobile quarterbacks in the league, an interesting juxtaposition for Ben Roethlisberger's backup. He does have a very strong arm, one that he showed Monday night against the Chiefs. Controlling that arm is another story. But I expect the Steelers to rely on their two-headed rushing attack of Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer. The two backs are very similar, using physical running to beat down defenses. Dwyer is a scary resurrection of Jerome Bettis, while Redman is more of a finesse back. If they have their way against an inconsistent Ravens rush defense, this could turn into an ugly game. There is no quantifying the loss of Roethlisberger, and it could end up deciding not just the game, but the division.
Prediction: If the Ravens can break from bad habits and put pressure on an immobile Byron Leftwich, the Steelers pass attack will be virtually shut down. But if Leftwich has time in the pocket, and uses his arm to burn the Ravens, this game won't be nearly as easy as some project. Also, make sure not to overlook the top-ranked Steelers defense. And remember this is still Ravens-Steelers, the bloodiest game played in the NFL today. I have the Ravens winning another hard battle, 20-13.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Steelers
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Steelers CB Keenan Lewis Edge: Smith
Analysis: There was some trash-talking on Lewis' part this week, directly at Smith. Expect Smith to reprise his role as Steelers' killer for some revenge.
Ravens offensive line vs. Steelers pass rush Edge: Steelers
Analysis: This could go either way, but there is a better chance of the Steelers getting to the pocket quickly, as we've seen in the past. Could be dangerous.
Ravens linebackers vs. Steelers running backs Edge: Steelers
Analysis: The Steelers have proven to be an effective rushing team this year, and I don't have to tell you about the Ravens' inability to guard against the run.
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs vs. Steelers QB Byron Leftwich Edge: Suggs
Analysis: If there was a week for Suggs to break out, this would be the one. He would love to put a dagger in the Steelers' hearts, and Leftwich is the perfect target for a good pass rusher. Suggs will be in his face all night.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
CB Jimmy Smith-Abs-OUT
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-DBT
S Christian Thompson-Thigh-QST
NT Terrence Cody-Arm-QST
Steelers
Player-Injury-Status
WR Antonio Brown-Ankle-OUT
QB Ben Roethlisberger-Shoulder-OUT
S Troy Polamalu-Calf-OUT
T Marcus Gilbert-Ankle-OUT
LB Stevenson Sylvester-Hamstring-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 7 2
Steelers 6 3
Bengals 4 5
Browns 2 7
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Ravens QB Joe Flacco-21/33 for 341 yards, 3 passing touchdowns, 1 rushing touchdown
Honorable Mention: Ravens offensive coordinator Cam Cameron-I have been one of those Cameron doubters, as have many. From top to bottom, this may have been the greatest game-plan he has concocted as a Raven. Kudos to Cam.
Key to the Win: The Raiders had no idea what they were in for when they ran onto the gridiron, and the Ravens took advantage of it. This was a complete team win. Most complaints about this game would be knit-picking.
Next Sunday, the greatest rivalry in the NFL will be renewed. The first of two matchups in just three weeks against the Steelers will be Sunday night in front of a national audience. The Steelers are 6-3 on the year, just one game back of the first-place Ravens in the AFC North. But this game will be different. This could be a look into the near future of this great rivalry. Both defenses, known for their physicality, will be without their respective leaders. Ray Lewis of course, for the Ravens, and Troy Polamalu for the Steelers, who has missed five consecutive games with a calf injury. Despite the loss, the Steelers have not missed a beat this year on defense. They rank first in the NFL in yards given up per game and passing yards given up per game. This will present a large challenge for a Ravens offense reeling off of an explosion against the Raiders. But those points last week mean nothing if they can't back it up in this game. The Steelers' offense is a whole different story. Their stalwart leader, Ben Roethlisberger, was sidelined last week with injuries to his throwing shoulder and ribs. He will miss this game and possibly more. Many people have argued that Roethlisberger's toughness will propel him to play this game, but they are sadly misinformed. Big Ben's rib is dangerously close to his heart, and if they touch each other, it could become life-threatening. As for his shoulder, it's not a matter of toughness, yet a matter of "Can you throw the football?" Ben's replacement will be the highly-touted but disappointing Byron Leftwich, a top-10 draft pick out of Marshall in 2003 who never realized his potential. Leftwich is notoriously sedentary in the pocket, and has been called one of the least mobile quarterbacks in the league, an interesting juxtaposition for Ben Roethlisberger's backup. He does have a very strong arm, one that he showed Monday night against the Chiefs. Controlling that arm is another story. But I expect the Steelers to rely on their two-headed rushing attack of Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer. The two backs are very similar, using physical running to beat down defenses. Dwyer is a scary resurrection of Jerome Bettis, while Redman is more of a finesse back. If they have their way against an inconsistent Ravens rush defense, this could turn into an ugly game. There is no quantifying the loss of Roethlisberger, and it could end up deciding not just the game, but the division.
Prediction: If the Ravens can break from bad habits and put pressure on an immobile Byron Leftwich, the Steelers pass attack will be virtually shut down. But if Leftwich has time in the pocket, and uses his arm to burn the Ravens, this game won't be nearly as easy as some project. Also, make sure not to overlook the top-ranked Steelers defense. And remember this is still Ravens-Steelers, the bloodiest game played in the NFL today. I have the Ravens winning another hard battle, 20-13.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Steelers
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Steelers CB Keenan Lewis Edge: Smith
Analysis: There was some trash-talking on Lewis' part this week, directly at Smith. Expect Smith to reprise his role as Steelers' killer for some revenge.
Ravens offensive line vs. Steelers pass rush Edge: Steelers
Analysis: This could go either way, but there is a better chance of the Steelers getting to the pocket quickly, as we've seen in the past. Could be dangerous.
Ravens linebackers vs. Steelers running backs Edge: Steelers
Analysis: The Steelers have proven to be an effective rushing team this year, and I don't have to tell you about the Ravens' inability to guard against the run.
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs vs. Steelers QB Byron Leftwich Edge: Suggs
Analysis: If there was a week for Suggs to break out, this would be the one. He would love to put a dagger in the Steelers' hearts, and Leftwich is the perfect target for a good pass rusher. Suggs will be in his face all night.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
CB Jimmy Smith-Abs-OUT
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-DBT
S Christian Thompson-Thigh-QST
NT Terrence Cody-Arm-QST
Steelers
Player-Injury-Status
WR Antonio Brown-Ankle-OUT
QB Ben Roethlisberger-Shoulder-OUT
S Troy Polamalu-Calf-OUT
T Marcus Gilbert-Ankle-OUT
LB Stevenson Sylvester-Hamstring-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 7 2
Steelers 6 3
Bengals 4 5
Browns 2 7
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 10 2012
Last week, the Ravens came away with yet another close win, defeating the Browns in Cleveland, 25-15. John Harbaugh has not lost to the Browns yet in his career with the Ravens, who have now won 10 consecutive games against Cleveland. At the beginning of the game, it looked as if the Ravens were headed for the blowout win they desperately needed. On their first drive they drove down the length of the field, finishing the drive off with a Ray Rice touchdown run. After the defense forced a three-and-out, the Ravens drove down again, this time with rookie Bernard Pierce getting in the end zone for the first TD of his career. But the Ravens would not get back on the board again until the fourth quarter. Browns K Phil Dawson notched five consecutive field goals, ranging from the beginning of the second quarter to the middle of the fourth, ultimately giving the Browns a 15-14 lead with just under nine minutes remaining. The struggling Ravens offense, incapable of getting anything going, finally got the message and woke up. A drive that started with a big pass play to Anquan Boldin finished when Flacco found Torrey Smith, who turned away from his man and found the end zone. The Ravens would attempt to go for two, and on a smart audible called by Flacco, Boldin ended up wide open in the back of the end zone, giving the Ravens a 22-15 lead. The Browns would try to come back but an incomplete pass on fourth down gave the Ravens the ball back with great field position, helping to seal a Ravens victory.
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Ray Rice-98 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD
Key to the Win: As uncomfortably close as this game was, Ravens fans can find some solace in the fact that the Browns never reached the end zone. A Browns touchdown was called back, but the Ravens defense came up with some big stops in the red zone, keeping the team in the game. The offense disappeared in the middle of the game, but executed well in the beginning and the end to get the win.
On Sunday, the Ravens will host the 3-5 Oakland Raiders in Baltimore in the team's first home game in a month. The Raiders lost a shootout at home last week against the Buccaneers, surrendering over 250 rushing yards to rookie Doug Martin. But the Raiders wounds from that loss surpass the game itself. The Raiders' biggest offensive playmaker, RB Darren McFadden, went down with a high ankle sprain and will miss this Sunday's game. Backup RB Mike Goodson will also miss the game with an ankle injury, leaving 3rd-stringer Marcel Reese to handle the duties in the backfield along with rookie Taiwan Jones. For a Ravens run defense that is now ranked 28th in the NFL, this could either be a morale-boosting performance, or an embarrassing loss of confidence and enthusiasm. If this defense can't stop a 3rd-stringer, we're in some serious trouble. Raiders QB Carson Palmer is no foreigner to playing in Baltimore against the Ravens. The former Bengals QB has had great success against the Ravens, but he'll be playing with a different group of guys Sunday than he's played with in previous years. His weapons with the Bengals were far greater than what he'll have to work with on Sunday. One of his biggest targets is former Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, who has reached the end zone twice this season. The Raiders are also dealing with injuries on the defensive side. DE Richard Seymour, a staple on the defensive line, has been ruled out of this week's game with a hamstring injury. The Raiders defense has been struggling as it is, giving up an average of 28.6 points per game. Expect the Ravens to use a heavy dose of the no-huddle offense to wear down the Raiders defense and put up some quick points. Also, keep in mind that east coast teams have unprecedented success when hosting west coast teams at 1 PM. Just another small advantage the Ravens will hold come Sunday afternoon.
Prediction: There is definitely a formula for success for the Ravens this week, but executing it is another issue altogether. The Ravens need to take advantage of the lack of a strong Raiders running game. Since they will be relying heavily on the passing game, the defense needs to put constant pressure on Carson Palmer, even if it just means a hand in his face. On offense, it means mixing up play calls and making sure you get first downs. I think the Ravens will put it all together this week, getting a much-needed 27-16 win.
Key Matchups for Raiders at Ravens
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Raiders WR Denarius Moore Edge: Moore
Analysis: Moore is a speedy, scrappy receiver that could challenge Williams, who has trouble with those types of receivers. He will need to keep up with and contain Moore to win this matchup.
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Raiders QB Carson Palmer Edge: Reed
Analysis: This is a classic AFC North matchup that brings back memories on both sides. These two guys have had plenty of back-and-forths when they played each other twice a year. Palmer's lack of targets in Oakland could put a damper on a great reminder of days gone by.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Raiders LB Rolando McClain Edge: Rice
Analysis: Rice is just too fast and too agile for McClain to keep up with. This is a matchup the Ravens will surely take advantage of.
Ravens QB Joe Flacco vs. Raiders S Michael Huff Edge: Flacco
Analysis: Flacco could have a lot of fun playing around with Huff all afternoon. Expect play-fakes to dictate the winner of this one.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-OUT
DT Haloti Ngata-Shoulder-QST
G Bobbie Williams-Knee-QST
G Marshal Yanda-Ankle-QST
Raiders
Player-Injury-Status
RB Darren McFadden-Ankle-OUT
RB Mike Goodson-Ankle-OUT
CB Shawntae Spencer-Foot-OUT
DT Richard Seymour-Hamstring-OUT
T Khalif Barnes-Groin-QST
K Sebastian Janikowski-Left Groin-PRB
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 6 2
Steelers 5 3
Bengals 3 5
Browns 2 7
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Ravens RB Ray Rice-98 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD
Key to the Win: As uncomfortably close as this game was, Ravens fans can find some solace in the fact that the Browns never reached the end zone. A Browns touchdown was called back, but the Ravens defense came up with some big stops in the red zone, keeping the team in the game. The offense disappeared in the middle of the game, but executed well in the beginning and the end to get the win.
On Sunday, the Ravens will host the 3-5 Oakland Raiders in Baltimore in the team's first home game in a month. The Raiders lost a shootout at home last week against the Buccaneers, surrendering over 250 rushing yards to rookie Doug Martin. But the Raiders wounds from that loss surpass the game itself. The Raiders' biggest offensive playmaker, RB Darren McFadden, went down with a high ankle sprain and will miss this Sunday's game. Backup RB Mike Goodson will also miss the game with an ankle injury, leaving 3rd-stringer Marcel Reese to handle the duties in the backfield along with rookie Taiwan Jones. For a Ravens run defense that is now ranked 28th in the NFL, this could either be a morale-boosting performance, or an embarrassing loss of confidence and enthusiasm. If this defense can't stop a 3rd-stringer, we're in some serious trouble. Raiders QB Carson Palmer is no foreigner to playing in Baltimore against the Ravens. The former Bengals QB has had great success against the Ravens, but he'll be playing with a different group of guys Sunday than he's played with in previous years. His weapons with the Bengals were far greater than what he'll have to work with on Sunday. One of his biggest targets is former Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, who has reached the end zone twice this season. The Raiders are also dealing with injuries on the defensive side. DE Richard Seymour, a staple on the defensive line, has been ruled out of this week's game with a hamstring injury. The Raiders defense has been struggling as it is, giving up an average of 28.6 points per game. Expect the Ravens to use a heavy dose of the no-huddle offense to wear down the Raiders defense and put up some quick points. Also, keep in mind that east coast teams have unprecedented success when hosting west coast teams at 1 PM. Just another small advantage the Ravens will hold come Sunday afternoon.
Prediction: There is definitely a formula for success for the Ravens this week, but executing it is another issue altogether. The Ravens need to take advantage of the lack of a strong Raiders running game. Since they will be relying heavily on the passing game, the defense needs to put constant pressure on Carson Palmer, even if it just means a hand in his face. On offense, it means mixing up play calls and making sure you get first downs. I think the Ravens will put it all together this week, getting a much-needed 27-16 win.
Key Matchups for Raiders at Ravens
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Raiders WR Denarius Moore Edge: Moore
Analysis: Moore is a speedy, scrappy receiver that could challenge Williams, who has trouble with those types of receivers. He will need to keep up with and contain Moore to win this matchup.
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Raiders QB Carson Palmer Edge: Reed
Analysis: This is a classic AFC North matchup that brings back memories on both sides. These two guys have had plenty of back-and-forths when they played each other twice a year. Palmer's lack of targets in Oakland could put a damper on a great reminder of days gone by.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Raiders LB Rolando McClain Edge: Rice
Analysis: Rice is just too fast and too agile for McClain to keep up with. This is a matchup the Ravens will surely take advantage of.
Ravens QB Joe Flacco vs. Raiders S Michael Huff Edge: Flacco
Analysis: Flacco could have a lot of fun playing around with Huff all afternoon. Expect play-fakes to dictate the winner of this one.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-OUT
DT Haloti Ngata-Shoulder-QST
G Bobbie Williams-Knee-QST
G Marshal Yanda-Ankle-QST
Raiders
Player-Injury-Status
RB Darren McFadden-Ankle-OUT
RB Mike Goodson-Ankle-OUT
CB Shawntae Spencer-Foot-OUT
DT Richard Seymour-Hamstring-OUT
T Khalif Barnes-Groin-QST
K Sebastian Janikowski-Left Groin-PRB
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 6 2
Steelers 5 3
Bengals 3 5
Browns 2 7
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and go Ravens!
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Ravens Report-Week 9 2012
Two weeks ago, the Ravens' ways of slipping by their opponents came to a screeching halt. After close wins in the final minutes categorized the team's first six games, the Texans delivered a 43-13 blow to hopefully wake up our boys in purple and black. In the first game without Ray Lewis and Lardarius Webb, the Ravens defense surrendered 36 points and 420 total yards to a potent Texans offense. On the bright side, reigning Defensive Player of the Year Terrell Suggs picked up 3 tackles and a sack in his first game of the year, after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon. Following a Justin Tucker field goal to open the afternoon, the Ravens began a long and painful downhill climb. What began with Joe Flacco being sacked in the end zone for a safety would opened the door for 29 consecutive Texans points, giving them a 29-3 lead at halftime. The Ravens would attempt a comeback early in the third quarter on a touchdown pass from Flacco to second-year receiver Tandon Doss, his first career touchdown catch. But the attempt would be in vain, as the Texans responded with two touchdowns, finally sealing the win on an Arian Foster 2-yard touchdown run midway through the fourth quarter. It was an abysmal performance from the Ravens, but luckily, we are still in a good position. Heading into last week's much-needed bye, we are 2nd in the AFC with a 5-2 record, and we are one game ahead of the Steelers in the division.
Player of the Game: Texans RB Arian Foster-98 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns
Key to the Win: They kicked our asses. Simply said. There's no other way to communicate it. They played better than we did; wanted it more than we did. Part of me believes that the Ravens came in with the mindset that "we'll be fine if we lose this game. Going into the bye week, we'd be comfortable at 5-2." While this is true, it's not the way you treat a football game, especially given that you only play 16 a year. It sure looked like that played that way.
On Sunday, the Ravens will head into the Dawg Pound of Cleveland to face the 2-6 Browns. The Browns have picked up their two wins in the last three weeks, including home wins against the Bengals and Chargers. This will be the first time that the Ravens play in Cleveland since the death of Art Modell, who owned the Browns from 1961 to 1995, when he moved the team to Baltimore to become the Ravens. He isn't very well liked out in Cleveland. When the two teams met in Baltimore back in Week 4, the Ravens escaped with a 23-16 win on national television. But this is not a matchup between those two teams. The Browns defense has vastly improved since we last saw them, while it seems that the Ravens defense has regressed since then. The Browns rank higher than the Ravens in two defensive categories (Yards per Game, Rushing Yards per Game). Browns CB Joe Haden missed the first game, but will play Sunday. The Ravens will also need to worry about Browns LB D'Qwell Jackson, a former Terrapin who leads the team in sacks and tackles this year. With a Ravens offensive line that has surrendered 18 sacks (12th worst in the NFL), Jackson and fellow pass rushers Jaqua Parker and Frostee Rucker could become dangerous game-changers. On offense, the Browns' young slew of talent has been improving by the week. Rookie QB Brandon Weeden has not been picked off in three weeks, and has added four touchdowns in the meantime. Fellow rookie, RB Trent Richardson, has been battling multiple injuries. But he has still been effective, garnering almost 500 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns during the season. He has established himself as a tough, physical runner, who won't go to the ground without a fight. One of the biggest surprises for the Browns has been WR Josh Gordon, a supplemental draft pick this past year who is leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns. For an older, struggling, beaten-down Ravens defense, these youngsters could pose some serious threats. The Ravens will also be dealing with injuries on the defensive line. Pernell McPhee has already been ruled out for the game, while Haloti Ngata's status is still up in the air as he looks to play through a shoulder injury.
Prediction: Many people in Baltimore already have this game penciled in as a win, but I'd like to think of myself as cautiously optimistic. If we see the Ravens road team we've come to know and hate, this won't be as easy as we'd like. If they come out strong, we could be in for a fun afternoon. Keep in mind that under John Harbaugh, the Ravens have never lost coming off their bye week (shouldn't have mentioned that). And after an embarrasing loss in Houston, expect them to come out hungry to prove a point. I have the Ravens winning, 26-17.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Browns
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Browns WR Josh Gordon Edge: Williams
Analysis: Gordon is fast and has some nice hands. Williams has come up clutch in tough situations at points this year, so let's pray that that is the Cary Williams we see Sunday. But remember he still has that uncanny knack for letting fast receivers like Gordon burn him.
Ravens LB Jameel McClain vs. Browns RB Trent Richardson Edge: Richardson
Analysis: Despite Richardson's injury, I don't think McClain has the focus or intensity to keep up with and tackle a tough back like Richardson. Let's pray that I'm wrong.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Browns LB D'Qwell Jackson Edge: Rice
Analysis: In my opinion, this is the biggest, most important matchup of the game. If Rice can consistently get past Jackson, he could have a big day with a weak secondary behind Jackson. If Jackson wins this one, which he very well could, the Ravens will look for other ways to beat the Browns defense. Ways that don't involve Rice.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Browns CB Joe Haden Edge: Haden
Analysis: Haden is great at limiting big-play receivers like Smith. But it only takes one good cut or one big play from Smith to turn this matchup the other way.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-OUT
DT Haloti Ngata-Shoulder-QST
Browns
Player-Injury-Status
DL Brian Sanford-Knee-OUT
DL Ahtyba Rubin-DL-Calf-DBT
WR Josh Cooper-Thigh-QST
LB D'Qwell Jackson-Calf/Foot/Toe-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 5 2
Steelers 4 3
Bengals 3 4
Browns 2 6
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and Go Ravens!
Player of the Game: Texans RB Arian Foster-98 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns
Key to the Win: They kicked our asses. Simply said. There's no other way to communicate it. They played better than we did; wanted it more than we did. Part of me believes that the Ravens came in with the mindset that "we'll be fine if we lose this game. Going into the bye week, we'd be comfortable at 5-2." While this is true, it's not the way you treat a football game, especially given that you only play 16 a year. It sure looked like that played that way.
On Sunday, the Ravens will head into the Dawg Pound of Cleveland to face the 2-6 Browns. The Browns have picked up their two wins in the last three weeks, including home wins against the Bengals and Chargers. This will be the first time that the Ravens play in Cleveland since the death of Art Modell, who owned the Browns from 1961 to 1995, when he moved the team to Baltimore to become the Ravens. He isn't very well liked out in Cleveland. When the two teams met in Baltimore back in Week 4, the Ravens escaped with a 23-16 win on national television. But this is not a matchup between those two teams. The Browns defense has vastly improved since we last saw them, while it seems that the Ravens defense has regressed since then. The Browns rank higher than the Ravens in two defensive categories (Yards per Game, Rushing Yards per Game). Browns CB Joe Haden missed the first game, but will play Sunday. The Ravens will also need to worry about Browns LB D'Qwell Jackson, a former Terrapin who leads the team in sacks and tackles this year. With a Ravens offensive line that has surrendered 18 sacks (12th worst in the NFL), Jackson and fellow pass rushers Jaqua Parker and Frostee Rucker could become dangerous game-changers. On offense, the Browns' young slew of talent has been improving by the week. Rookie QB Brandon Weeden has not been picked off in three weeks, and has added four touchdowns in the meantime. Fellow rookie, RB Trent Richardson, has been battling multiple injuries. But he has still been effective, garnering almost 500 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns during the season. He has established himself as a tough, physical runner, who won't go to the ground without a fight. One of the biggest surprises for the Browns has been WR Josh Gordon, a supplemental draft pick this past year who is leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns. For an older, struggling, beaten-down Ravens defense, these youngsters could pose some serious threats. The Ravens will also be dealing with injuries on the defensive line. Pernell McPhee has already been ruled out for the game, while Haloti Ngata's status is still up in the air as he looks to play through a shoulder injury.
Prediction: Many people in Baltimore already have this game penciled in as a win, but I'd like to think of myself as cautiously optimistic. If we see the Ravens road team we've come to know and hate, this won't be as easy as we'd like. If they come out strong, we could be in for a fun afternoon. Keep in mind that under John Harbaugh, the Ravens have never lost coming off their bye week (shouldn't have mentioned that). And after an embarrasing loss in Houston, expect them to come out hungry to prove a point. I have the Ravens winning, 26-17.
Key Matchups for Ravens at Browns
Ravens CB Cary Williams vs. Browns WR Josh Gordon Edge: Williams
Analysis: Gordon is fast and has some nice hands. Williams has come up clutch in tough situations at points this year, so let's pray that that is the Cary Williams we see Sunday. But remember he still has that uncanny knack for letting fast receivers like Gordon burn him.
Ravens LB Jameel McClain vs. Browns RB Trent Richardson Edge: Richardson
Analysis: Despite Richardson's injury, I don't think McClain has the focus or intensity to keep up with and tackle a tough back like Richardson. Let's pray that I'm wrong.
Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Browns LB D'Qwell Jackson Edge: Rice
Analysis: In my opinion, this is the biggest, most important matchup of the game. If Rice can consistently get past Jackson, he could have a big day with a weak secondary behind Jackson. If Jackson wins this one, which he very well could, the Ravens will look for other ways to beat the Browns defense. Ways that don't involve Rice.
Ravens WR Torrey Smith vs. Browns CB Joe Haden Edge: Haden
Analysis: Haden is great at limiting big-play receivers like Smith. But it only takes one good cut or one big play from Smith to turn this matchup the other way.
Injury Report
Ravens
Player-Injury-Status
DE Pernell McPhee-Thigh-OUT
DT Haloti Ngata-Shoulder-QST
Browns
Player-Injury-Status
DL Brian Sanford-Knee-OUT
DL Ahtyba Rubin-DL-Calf-DBT
WR Josh Cooper-Thigh-QST
LB D'Qwell Jackson-Calf/Foot/Toe-QST
AFC North Standings
Team W L
Ravens 5 2
Steelers 4 3
Bengals 3 4
Browns 2 6
That's it for this week's version of my Ravens Report, see you next week and Go Ravens!
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