2009 NFL Football Preview - Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens made a notable run through the playoffs last fall, winning in Miami and Nashville before eventually succumbing to division rival Pittsburgh in a 23-14 battle for the AFC crown. Rookie quarterback Joe Flacco had a highly-successful season, one most notable for him NOT making mistakes, as most young signal-callers in the league are prone to do. Credit first-year coach John Harbaugh with holding a steady hand with Flacco, as well. Rex Ryan leaves Baltimore after 10 largely successful seasons, taking over as head coach of the Jets. |
Despite filling out the injury list with notable players weekly, the Ravens still ranked second in yards allowed, third in scoring, third against the run, second against the pass and led the league in interceptions. Greg Mattison will now call the defense, and he figures to do most of the same penetrating, zone-blitzing developed for Ryan for these heady defenders over the years. While most would be concerned after 13 veterans depart for one reason or another, shrewd GM Ozzie Newsome just puts in highly-capable replacements, figuring that the depth developed during last year's injuries should be ready in some key positions. Matt Stover has made 14 game-winning field goals, most all-time, and departs. In steps Florida State draftee Graham Gano, who was 24-of-26 last fall to win the Lou Groza Award. Corners Chris McAlister and Corey Ivy depart, but Domonique Foxworth (Atlanta) and Chris Carr (Tennessee) figure to get chances to prove themselves. Ray Lewis, Haloti Ngata, Terrell Suggs and Ed Reed are all back, as well. Flacco will be the key, as he'll need to improve on solid rookie numbers of 60 percent completions, 14 TDs and 12 interceptions.
ASK the bookie - The Bookie was not necessarily impressed with the Ravens during the season and they cost him money for stacking against them in the first two playoff games. The rest of the league should take Baltimore a tad more serious and/or know more about the Ravens now that Harbaugh enters his season. The overall toughness of the conference will have The Bookie (not in resent mode, promise!) calling for Baltimore to only win eight games and miss the playoffs this winter. Let's try UNDER for the Ravens.
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