Doubtful - Ogden (toe)
Questionable - Bart Scott - Ankle, Jason Brown - Ankle, Adalius Thomas - Ankle
Probably - Daniel Wilcox
Thursday, December 28, 2006
News and Notes from Around the League
- There are 20 teams in contention for the Super Bowl right now. This is the most since the new schedule (16 games) in 1978. The previous high was 19 in 2002.
- 3 clubs have receiving duos with 80 or more catches. The league record is 5 teams, and that could be reached this week. (Cincy, Indy and St. Louis are in, Lions and Jets are close)
- Brett Favre is one win away from tying second all time with John Elway for most career wins. (Marino 148, Elway 147, Favre 146)
- 19 RB's have gained 1,000 yards or more, 5 more are within reach. The league record of 23 RB's with over 1,000 yards could be broken this weekend.
- 3 clubs have receiving duos with 80 or more catches. The league record is 5 teams, and that could be reached this week. (Cincy, Indy and St. Louis are in, Lions and Jets are close)
- Brett Favre is one win away from tying second all time with John Elway for most career wins. (Marino 148, Elway 147, Favre 146)
- 19 RB's have gained 1,000 yards or more, 5 more are within reach. The league record of 23 RB's with over 1,000 yards could be broken this weekend.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Some Notes...
It is Christmas weekend, and I presents to wrap, so we will take a field trip to Extreme Ravens for the preview this week. Ravens vs. Steelers HERE
Other notes around the league:
Indy will clinch a first round bye if Baltimore loses
Cinci clinches a playoff spot if they win and Buffalo loses and etiher the Jets or Jax loses.
Chargers gain home field advantage with a Chargers win, and a Baltimore loss and/ or Indy loss or tie
Other notes around the league:
Indy will clinch a first round bye if Baltimore loses
Cinci clinches a playoff spot if they win and Buffalo loses and etiher the Jets or Jax loses.
Chargers gain home field advantage with a Chargers win, and a Baltimore loss and/ or Indy loss or tie
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Remaining Schedules
Chargers (12-2)
at Sea. (8-6) vs. Ari. (4-10)
Ravens (11-3)
at Pit. (7-7) vs. Buf. (7-7)
Colts (11-3)
at Hou. (4-10) Mia. (6-8)
Patriots (10-4)
at Jac. (8-6) at Ten. (7-7)
at Sea. (8-6) vs. Ari. (4-10)
Ravens (11-3)
at Pit. (7-7) vs. Buf. (7-7)
Colts (11-3)
at Hou. (4-10) Mia. (6-8)
Patriots (10-4)
at Jac. (8-6) at Ten. (7-7)
BOO on Ravnens Fans
Wow. Way to NOT show up for All Star voting. The fan voting finished up December 15th. The Pro Bowl roster is a consensus of fans, players, and coaches. Each groups vote counts for 1/3 of the total.
Top Vote getters for the NFL
Peyton Manning 1,183,468
LaDainian Tomlinson 1,111,684
Drew Brees 907,684
Tiki Barber 882,594
Larry Johnson 772,734
Top Ravens Vote getters
Jonathon Ogden 188,329
Ed Reed 161,732
The full list of Ravens going is:
Jonathon Ogden - 10th Pro Bowl
Terrell Suggs - 2nd Pro Bowl
Adalius Thomas - 2nd Pro Bowl
Ed Reed 3rd Pro Bowl
Chris McAlister - 3rd Pro Bowl
Alternatives -
Matt Stover
Ray Lewis
Todd Heap
Gary Stills
Not a very impressive showing for Ravens fans.
Top Vote getters for the NFL
Peyton Manning 1,183,468
LaDainian Tomlinson 1,111,684
Drew Brees 907,684
Tiki Barber 882,594
Larry Johnson 772,734
Top Ravens Vote getters
Jonathon Ogden 188,329
Ed Reed 161,732
The full list of Ravens going is:
Jonathon Ogden - 10th Pro Bowl
Terrell Suggs - 2nd Pro Bowl
Adalius Thomas - 2nd Pro Bowl
Ed Reed 3rd Pro Bowl
Chris McAlister - 3rd Pro Bowl
Alternatives -
Matt Stover
Ray Lewis
Todd Heap
Gary Stills
Not a very impressive showing for Ravens fans.
Ravens Clinch!
With a routing of the Bengals last night, the Colts have helped the Ravens clinch the AFC North.
This is good news and bad, so here is where they go from here:
STATISTICALLY it may have even been better for the Bengals to win, but here is the run-down -
The Ravens are currently a No. 3 seed. The only way to move up is if the Chargers or Colts lose one of the last two games, and the Ravens win the last two games.
If the Ravens remain a No. 3 seed, they host a wild card team in the first round of the playoffs, WHEN (not if) they win that game, they would move on to face Indy or San Diego
This is good news and bad, so here is where they go from here:
STATISTICALLY it may have even been better for the Bengals to win, but here is the run-down -
The Ravens are currently a No. 3 seed. The only way to move up is if the Chargers or Colts lose one of the last two games, and the Ravens win the last two games.
If the Ravens remain a No. 3 seed, they host a wild card team in the first round of the playoffs, WHEN (not if) they win that game, they would move on to face Indy or San Diego
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Rules Rewind #3 - Simultaneous Recovery
This is a short one, but even researching it, it doesn't seem like this is called correctly.
Simultaneous Recovery - IF there is a fumble, and both teams "have possesion" or there is not a clear recovery EVEN if one team comes up with it, the ball goes to the offensvie team.
Simultaneous Recovery - IF there is a fumble, and both teams "have possesion" or there is not a clear recovery EVEN if one team comes up with it, the ball goes to the offensvie team.
Ravens vs. Browns Recap
It was almost like the old days. Baltimore Ravens fans saw Kyle Boller do what he has done for years - get nervous, force throws, and not go through his progressions. Fortunately for Ravens fans though, he also seems to have learned a thing or two by watching Steve McNair.
McNair started the game 0-4 before getting his hand stepped on. Boller came in and had and up and down day, but finished 13 for 21 for 238 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 pic. He also had a fumble.
Jamal ran 22 times for 109, his long run was a solid 52 yard trot. It was evident then he does not have the same open field speed we have seen from him in the past, either that or he was so excited from actually getting into the open field it wore him out. If you take away the 52 yarder, he only averaged about 2.7 yards a carry. Still, he was hitting some holes, and clearly the Browns had to respect him, which helped Boller out immensely.
Heap led the receiving corps with 5 receptions for 58 yards, it was Demetrius Williams though that stole the show, connecting on a 77 yard pass going over the top and flat outrunning the entire Cleveland team.
There were some high notes that the Ravens can be pleased with:
- The defense held the Browns 0-11 on third down conversion attempts.
- The team was able to control the penalties, only getting flagged 4 times for 30 yards.
- On their side of the ball, they converted 7 of 15 3rd downs.
Defense:
When the D gets tired, or starts sitting back, or not moving and showing different looks, they are getting punished. The quarterbacks are getting too much time to wait for open receivers. For at least the last 5 games, if the opposing team is marching down the field, the D is usually in what I call "rest mode".
Offense
Billick is starting to call some long balls. This is not something Ravens fans have seen in quite some time, but it has worked each of the last two weeks. The Ravens today continued to show good ran/pass balance, and they were able to overcome Boller's two big turnovers to stay in the game, and put some points on the board.
Special Teams
The Ravens simply need to find a way to produce positive yards on special teams. Ross did a solid if unspectacular job against the Browns, but it will be much harder when the Ravens face playoff times.
Congratulations on the Playoff spot. The Ravens could use a Bengals loss on Monday to get home field advantage. Time to rest up and prepare for the Steelers on Christmas Eve. I would look for Billick to go easy on the team the last two games, maybe even sitting some of the starters for large portions of the game to save them for a playoff run. Especially the way they have been hit with injuries the last few games. Go Ravens!
P.S. Baltimore wins the division if Cinci loses Monday night.
McNair started the game 0-4 before getting his hand stepped on. Boller came in and had and up and down day, but finished 13 for 21 for 238 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 pic. He also had a fumble.
Jamal ran 22 times for 109, his long run was a solid 52 yard trot. It was evident then he does not have the same open field speed we have seen from him in the past, either that or he was so excited from actually getting into the open field it wore him out. If you take away the 52 yarder, he only averaged about 2.7 yards a carry. Still, he was hitting some holes, and clearly the Browns had to respect him, which helped Boller out immensely.
Heap led the receiving corps with 5 receptions for 58 yards, it was Demetrius Williams though that stole the show, connecting on a 77 yard pass going over the top and flat outrunning the entire Cleveland team.
There were some high notes that the Ravens can be pleased with:
- The defense held the Browns 0-11 on third down conversion attempts.
- The team was able to control the penalties, only getting flagged 4 times for 30 yards.
- On their side of the ball, they converted 7 of 15 3rd downs.
Defense:
When the D gets tired, or starts sitting back, or not moving and showing different looks, they are getting punished. The quarterbacks are getting too much time to wait for open receivers. For at least the last 5 games, if the opposing team is marching down the field, the D is usually in what I call "rest mode".
Offense
Billick is starting to call some long balls. This is not something Ravens fans have seen in quite some time, but it has worked each of the last two weeks. The Ravens today continued to show good ran/pass balance, and they were able to overcome Boller's two big turnovers to stay in the game, and put some points on the board.
Special Teams
The Ravens simply need to find a way to produce positive yards on special teams. Ross did a solid if unspectacular job against the Browns, but it will be much harder when the Ravens face playoff times.
Congratulations on the Playoff spot. The Ravens could use a Bengals loss on Monday to get home field advantage. Time to rest up and prepare for the Steelers on Christmas Eve. I would look for Billick to go easy on the team the last two games, maybe even sitting some of the starters for large portions of the game to save them for a playoff run. Especially the way they have been hit with injuries the last few games. Go Ravens!
P.S. Baltimore wins the division if Cinci loses Monday night.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Playoff Notes
The NFL playoffs are not based on a pure bracket system. In the divisional playoffs, the No. 1 seed is assured of playing the lowest-seeded Wild Card survivor. There are no restrictions on intra-division games and the higher seed of any matchup will have home-field advantage.
AFC Tiebreakers
• Indianapolis is the No. 2 seed based on a better strength of victory over Baltimore (.504 to Ravens' .477).
• Cincinnati is the No. 5 seed based on conference record over Jacksonville (6-3 to Jets' 5-4).
Christmas wishes for Baltimore:
- Indy to keep losing, Go Cinci...I think
- San Diego to start losing... Ummm, go Chiefs?
- Miracle cures for Sams and Mulitalo
- A perfect end to Baltimore's season
AFC Tiebreakers
• Indianapolis is the No. 2 seed based on a better strength of victory over Baltimore (.504 to Ravens' .477).
• Cincinnati is the No. 5 seed based on conference record over Jacksonville (6-3 to Jets' 5-4).
Christmas wishes for Baltimore:
- Indy to keep losing, Go Cinci...I think
- San Diego to start losing... Ummm, go Chiefs?
- Miracle cures for Sams and Mulitalo
- A perfect end to Baltimore's season
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Intentional Grounding
This rule has baffled me a bit, as we have seen some very different calls on what look like the same things.
From NFL.COM
Here are some other notes:
Intentional grounding is a "Combination Penalty". It is a 10 yard penalty and a loss of down. It is a safety if the passer is in his own endzone. If the passer is more then 10 yards behind the line of scrimmage, the penalty is assesed at the spot of the throw.
Notes on defensive influence:
If the QB has started the throwing motion, then gets contacted by the defensive player, the defensive player is seen to have affected the throw, and therefore no penalty.
If the QB gets hit first, recovers or shakes off the block, then cocks and throws, contact has already been made (first) and the pass can be called intentional grounding.
From NFL.COM
1. Intentional grounding of a forward pass is a foul: loss of down and 10 yards from previous spot if passer is in the field of play or loss of down at the spot of the foul if it occurs more than 10 yards behind the line or safety if passer is in his own end zone when ball is released.
2. Intentional grounding will be called when a passer, facing an imminent loss of yardage due to pressure from the defense, throws a forward pass without a realistic chance of completion.
3. Intentional grounding will not be called when a passer, while out of the pocket and facing an imminent loss of yardage, throws a pass that lands at or beyond the line of scrimmage, even if no offensive player(s) have a realistic chance to catch the ball (including if the ball lands out of bounds over the sideline or end line).
Here are some other notes:
Intentional grounding is a "Combination Penalty". It is a 10 yard penalty and a loss of down. It is a safety if the passer is in his own endzone. If the passer is more then 10 yards behind the line of scrimmage, the penalty is assesed at the spot of the throw.
Notes on defensive influence:
If the QB has started the throwing motion, then gets contacted by the defensive player, the defensive player is seen to have affected the throw, and therefore no penalty.
If the QB gets hit first, recovers or shakes off the block, then cocks and throws, contact has already been made (first) and the pass can be called intentional grounding.
Gameday News Roundup
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
McNair's Fresh Perspective
There is a good article on NFL.COM about the Raven's improvement since Billick started calling the plays. Full article HERE
Under Fassel, McNair completed 95 of 169 passes for five touchdowns, seven interceptions and a 64.1 passer rating. Under Billick, the three-time Pro Bowl passer has six touchdowns and two interceptions on 109 of 159 accuracy (68.5 percent) for 1,153 yards and a 99.1 average passer rating.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Ravens vs. Bengals Preview
Baltimore (9-2) at Cincinnati (6-5)
The Ravens go west, as they visit the Cincinnati Bengals this week, after a very short break. The game is televised on the NFL Network, as well as Channel 2 in Baltimore. This game has turned out to be a big one, with the AFC North not wanting to go quite as the preseason analysts had predicted. The Ravens can clinch the division title with a win, and the Bengals are fighting to stay right in the middle of the playoff hunt.
A Closer Look
Baltimore’s offense, that has been revamped since Jim Fassel left brings an unprecedented five game winning streak to the Bengals, who are also playing with a lot of fire, winners of two in a row on the road, after routing the Saints and Cleveland.
Carson Palmer’s (4th in the league in passing) Bengals are clicking of late, putting aside some of the internal turmoil that plagued them early in the season. Chad Johnson, when not working on his hairstyles and end zone celebrations, is averaging 16.5 yards per catch and leading the NFL, and Houshmandzadeh close behind with 12.2 yards per catch. The Bengals top 5 receivers (Johnson, Houshmandzadeh, Henry, Kelly, Washington) all average over 10 yards per catch. Rudy Johnson throws in a respectable 3.9 yards per carry on the ground, but this is predominantly an aerial team right now.
Baltimore’s 2nd ranked defense, coming off a shutout of the defending Super Bowl Champion Steelers, will have to get into gear early to close down the receiving corps.
The keys to the game for Baltimore are:
• Get to Carson Palmer early and often
• Shut down the receivers without PI calls
• Don’t let the Bengals go deep
The way the Ravens offense is playing, and the way the Bengals defense is playing, the Ravens should be able to move the ball. The greater challenge will be containing the Bengals offense.
The Ravens go west, as they visit the Cincinnati Bengals this week, after a very short break. The game is televised on the NFL Network, as well as Channel 2 in Baltimore. This game has turned out to be a big one, with the AFC North not wanting to go quite as the preseason analysts had predicted. The Ravens can clinch the division title with a win, and the Bengals are fighting to stay right in the middle of the playoff hunt.
A Closer Look
Baltimore’s offense, that has been revamped since Jim Fassel left brings an unprecedented five game winning streak to the Bengals, who are also playing with a lot of fire, winners of two in a row on the road, after routing the Saints and Cleveland.
Carson Palmer’s (4th in the league in passing) Bengals are clicking of late, putting aside some of the internal turmoil that plagued them early in the season. Chad Johnson, when not working on his hairstyles and end zone celebrations, is averaging 16.5 yards per catch and leading the NFL, and Houshmandzadeh close behind with 12.2 yards per catch. The Bengals top 5 receivers (Johnson, Houshmandzadeh, Henry, Kelly, Washington) all average over 10 yards per catch. Rudy Johnson throws in a respectable 3.9 yards per carry on the ground, but this is predominantly an aerial team right now.
Baltimore’s 2nd ranked defense, coming off a shutout of the defending Super Bowl Champion Steelers, will have to get into gear early to close down the receiving corps.
The keys to the game for Baltimore are:
• Get to Carson Palmer early and often
• Shut down the receivers without PI calls
• Don’t let the Bengals go deep
The way the Ravens offense is playing, and the way the Bengals defense is playing, the Ravens should be able to move the ball. The greater challenge will be containing the Bengals offense.
Rules Rewind #1 - Horse Collar Tackle
In this series, I will try to research some of the confusing calls we see each week, hoping to add some clarity to the subject.
#1 - Horse Collar tackle. Most of us know what this is, but here are some of the points you may not be aware of. We saw this last week in the Houston vs. Giants game.
1 - The defender (or person the foul is being called on) must grab the player "inside the collar".
2 - The player must be pulled all the way to the ground. For instance, if a player has the opposing player by the collar and either lets go or the player gets away, it is not a foul.
3 - It must immediate.
4 - This DOES NOT apply to the quarterback in the pocket.
5- This DOES NOT apply to a runner in "close line play" or tackle vs. tackle
#1 - Horse Collar tackle. Most of us know what this is, but here are some of the points you may not be aware of. We saw this last week in the Houston vs. Giants game.
1 - The defender (or person the foul is being called on) must grab the player "inside the collar".
2 - The player must be pulled all the way to the ground. For instance, if a player has the opposing player by the collar and either lets go or the player gets away, it is not a foul.
3 - It must immediate.
4 - This DOES NOT apply to the quarterback in the pocket.
5- This DOES NOT apply to a runner in "close line play" or tackle vs. tackle
Monday, November 27, 2006
Sunday Recap - Ravens end Steelers Season
9 sacks. The most sacks in a game EVER was 12. The Ravens shut out the Super Bowl Champs, held them to a meager 26 YARDS in the first half. The most fans ever for a home game, just under 71,000. The 12th man was huge. It was loud. They gave the fans a lot to cheer about.
From a fans perspective: They made it look easy. It is, from those of us watching, what we have been looking for for years. 6-8 yard passes, 4-6 yard runs. They put it all together. I think the Ravens still won't get as much respect because (surprisingly) they aren't a flashy team, short of the D. McNair threw for 140, #31 ran for 66 yards. This isn't the 249 that Vince Young put up, or the 349 that Brees threw for. That doesn't matter. At 9-2 Baltimore is one of the top teams in the NFL. The team looks like it is having fun, for the first time in a long time. Even more fun then 2000. The result is that they are fielding a much more balanced team then ever before. Special Teams, Defense, Offense, all contribute.
Unfortunately, there isn't much time to gloat, as a tough game at Cinci is coming up quick.
Some Ravens stats:
13th in the league in penalties
2nd in the league in team defense, allowing 4.5 yards a play second only to Chicago at 4.4 yards
From a fans perspective: They made it look easy. It is, from those of us watching, what we have been looking for for years. 6-8 yard passes, 4-6 yard runs. They put it all together. I think the Ravens still won't get as much respect because (surprisingly) they aren't a flashy team, short of the D. McNair threw for 140, #31 ran for 66 yards. This isn't the 249 that Vince Young put up, or the 349 that Brees threw for. That doesn't matter. At 9-2 Baltimore is one of the top teams in the NFL. The team looks like it is having fun, for the first time in a long time. Even more fun then 2000. The result is that they are fielding a much more balanced team then ever before. Special Teams, Defense, Offense, all contribute.
Unfortunately, there isn't much time to gloat, as a tough game at Cinci is coming up quick.
Some Ravens stats:
13th in the league in penalties
2nd in the league in team defense, allowing 4.5 yards a play second only to Chicago at 4.4 yards
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Sams named POW
Congrats to BJ, he was named the NFL's Special Teams player of the week. This is 2 weeks in a row, as Trevor Pryce was the winner last week.
Thanksgiving Day Schedule (So you know when NOT to get caught in the kitchen)
• MIAMI DOLPHINS at DETROIT LIONS (CBS, 12:30 PM ET): Former Lions first-round draft choice JOEY
HARRINGTON returns to face the club he quarterbacked from 2002-05. Detroit, hosting its 67th Thanksgiving
game, will confront a team with three consecutive wins, reminiscent of Miami’s six victories in a row to conclude
2005. The Dolphins will have to defend against the NFL’s fifth-ranked passing game.
• TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS at DALLAS COWBOYS (FOX, 4:15 PM ET): Two young quarterbacks
experiencing their first year of NFL action go at it – Bucs rookie BRUCE GRADKOWSKI and Cowboys four-year
vet TONY ROMO, who has built a 3-1 record in his first regular season play. Tampa Bay’s leading receiver JOEY
GALLOWAY (38 catches, 626 yards) will play his first game against his former team (2000-03).
• DENVER BRONCOS at KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (NFL Network, 8:00 PM ET): An AFC West battle between
second- (Denver, 7-3) and third-place teams (Kansas City, 6-4). The Chiefs have won five of the past seven
second meetings between the clubs. KC sends the league’s top rusher, LARRY JOHNSON (1,045 yards),
against Denver’s No. 5 NFL rush defense.
from NFL.com
HARRINGTON returns to face the club he quarterbacked from 2002-05. Detroit, hosting its 67th Thanksgiving
game, will confront a team with three consecutive wins, reminiscent of Miami’s six victories in a row to conclude
2005. The Dolphins will have to defend against the NFL’s fifth-ranked passing game.
• TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS at DALLAS COWBOYS (FOX, 4:15 PM ET): Two young quarterbacks
experiencing their first year of NFL action go at it – Bucs rookie BRUCE GRADKOWSKI and Cowboys four-year
vet TONY ROMO, who has built a 3-1 record in his first regular season play. Tampa Bay’s leading receiver JOEY
GALLOWAY (38 catches, 626 yards) will play his first game against his former team (2000-03).
• DENVER BRONCOS at KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (NFL Network, 8:00 PM ET): An AFC West battle between
second- (Denver, 7-3) and third-place teams (Kansas City, 6-4). The Chiefs have won five of the past seven
second meetings between the clubs. KC sends the league’s top rusher, LARRY JOHNSON (1,045 yards),
against Denver’s No. 5 NFL rush defense.
from NFL.com
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Notes and Updates
- Head coach Brian Billick is optimistic for Ray Lewis to start this week against the Steelers
- His back-up Mike Smith was moved to Injured Reserve
- B.J. Sams is ranked 5th in the NFL in returns but still has no TD's, I guess we'll have to settle for all those yards
- Baltimore's Defense
- His back-up Mike Smith was moved to Injured Reserve
- B.J. Sams is ranked 5th in the NFL in returns but still has no TD's, I guess we'll have to settle for all those yards
- Baltimore's Defense
- Ranked #2 in the NFL behind only Chicago (Cincinatti is last)
- Has only recieved 49 penalties totaling 381 yards, the fewest in the NFL
- Only allows an average of 14.9 first downs per game, the second fewest in the NFL
Some food for thought.
- Steelers haven't allowed a 100 yard rusher since last Thanksgiving (James/Colts)
- McNair is 10-4 vs. the Steelers lifetime, but the Steelers hold a 13-7 record against the Ravens.
Playoff Scenarios
The race begins! Here are the slots up for grabs this week. I will update this weekly
AFC South
Indianapolis can clinch division title with:
IND win + JAX lass tonight and in week 12
(If JAX wins tonight, IND can't clinch next week)
NFC North
Chicago can clinch division title with:
CHI win + GB loss or tie + MINN loss or tie OR
CHI tie + GB loss + MINN loss
Easy, Right?
AFC South
Indianapolis can clinch division title with:
IND win + JAX lass tonight and in week 12
(If JAX wins tonight, IND can't clinch next week)
NFC North
Chicago can clinch division title with:
CHI win + GB loss or tie + MINN loss or tie OR
CHI tie + GB loss + MINN loss
Easy, Right?
Week 10 Synopsis on Ravens Roost
A great article by Mike Johnson on Ravens Roost HERE. I bet he didn't sell his tickets to Steelers Fans.
Billick draws a line in the sand
See the complete article HERE
Amen.
“We’re 8-2, playing the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Billick said. “Fans who are going to sell their tickets this week, the other fans around them, this is pretty much a declaration. Before, we’ve talked about it, and what does it mean when they sell their tickets to Steelers fans? And God love them, you’ve got to respect for doing it, but at 8-2 and the way we’re going right now, the guy next to you had doled out his tickets to some Steeler fan, he’s pretty much showed his colors.”
Amen.
Monday, November 20, 2006
The 12th Man
Being one of the 70,940 fans to attend the Falcons loss to the Ravens, I can truly attest to the deafening power of the 12th man on the defense. I have no actual measurement of the decibel level on the field but it was deafening in the stands. No to mention the fact that several out of town Falcon's fans were shocked to see just how many die hard tailgaters there were. Pre-game festivities included an off chance meeting with head coach Brian Billick, who nonchalantly ambled across the Light Rail bridge at 10:45. Where he was comming from, I have no idea. All that to say this, it feels great to be associated with the best fans in the NFL.
Lackluster Dominance
What does it take to get some damn coverage nationally for the Ravens. After attending a very exciting Ravens vs. Falcons game, I arrived home, plopped down in my chair, and started perusing the sports channels looking for game highlights to remind me of the greatness that i just witnessed. At 6:30 pm on a Sunday I could find very little. I guess ESPN shows golf or tennis or some other sport that simply doesn’t matter at that time, but shouldn’t the team that sits at second place in the AFC receive at least a few minutes in the spotlight. I finally succumbed to watching two commentators on the NFL Network go on and on about team after team (Colts, Cowboys, Steelers, Browns, Bengals etc…) using video spots, press conferences, stat comparisons, and just about every other visual aid under the sun. But, when the Ravens scores finally pop up they read them and “poof”, on to the next team in 3rd place in their division. Maybe that’s a good thing though. This way when the Birds do battle, people won’t see the freight train that is about to hit them. So for me it's Tivo or Bust.
Do you want to buy Ray's home?
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis is looking to sell an oceanfront home in Florida for $10.9 million. Lewis bought the 6,788-square-foot home in March 2004 for $5.2 million.
See the listing here
See the listing here
Raven vs. Falcons Recap
Let's start with the good stuff. It is tempting to say the Falcons defense was already fairly beat up before coming in, but that would put a footnote on the win. Jamal was running great. (I put my previous post at least on hold), BJ was incredible. 3 - 60 yard returns?? McNair was solid. Play calling was good. Kelly Gregg chased down Vick in the open field. Defense shut them down the entire second half (again). Good times. 8-2. RIP Stover's streak.
Mike Preston's Report Card (SUN)
MVP Raven's Roost Report
Mike Preston's Report Card (SUN)
MVP Raven's Roost Report
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Ed Hartwell on Ray Lewis
I haven't posted too much on this topic, because I don't usually like to get into this kind of thing. But this one is getting blown out of proportion. There have been a few posts saying Ed said he didn't get anything from Ray, etc. etc. What he said wasn't GREAT, but wasn't that bad either Here it is: From Falcons Chat
Update: Did I hear they were inducting him (Hartwell) into the ring of honor today? I wonder if that will change after he has brought some heat this week.
MO: Somebody who you also learned some lessons from in Baltimore is Ray Lewis. You knew we were going to have to talk about Ray. Ghoticov in the FalconsChat room asks:
"Can you also talk about what you've taken from Ray Lewis?"
Hartwell: I think, from him and Singletary, really just how you go about your business. Coming in, I knew how to play football. You're going to learn the tweaks and the different things that you're going to learn on your way. So I wouldn't really say he made me a better football player playing football, but just putting the whole thing together as far as football and everything in order to be a complete football player, that's what I'd say I can take from Ray.
"Do you look to prove anything tomorrow against your former teammates?"
Hartwell: It's special, but I wouldn't say I want to prove something to them.
This is disappointing. I don't really remember him as a prick, but maybe I wasn't paying attention? I guess we will see how it goes in a few hours........."Ed you played in the 3-4 defense last year in Baltimore, you were second on the team in total tackles next to Ray Lewis. What influence do you expect 4-3 here in Atlanta to have your production? In your mind, what are some of the benefits in switching to a 4-3?"
Hartwell: Well, first of all, actually, I went back and I looked at the eye in the sky and I actually led the team with 187 and he [Ray Lewis] had 178.
Update: Did I hear they were inducting him (Hartwell) into the ring of honor today? I wonder if that will change after he has brought some heat this week.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Schedule
There has been much talk about the Raven's weak "home stretch" schedule. Many are saying that this schedule is one of the easier ones out there. The problem with that is there is SO much parity in the league. There is no weak schedule. Even teams who aren't doing well (Pittsburgh) are dangerous.
The Falcons game isn't a gimme. At 5-4 they are hardly out of the run, and still have a lot to play for. They are one game behind the Saints and I am not sure why everyone seems to be discounting them so much. They are an up and down team, but can play up.
We have the Steelers twice. Forgive me for stating the obvious, but less then a season removed from the Super Bowl, they have plenty of weapons. They would also love to beat the Ravens, and that game is always a tough one for both sides.
We have the Bengals that are 4-5 currently, but only trail us in the AFC North. They are well within the running still with 7 weeks left. They have a potent offense, albeit a somewhat whiny one. And we play at Cinci.
Kansas City is also 5-4, and the Bills and Browns are both 3-6, but can show up any Sunday. The Browns are a division game, which gives it added pressure.
The Falcons game isn't a gimme. At 5-4 they are hardly out of the run, and still have a lot to play for. They are one game behind the Saints and I am not sure why everyone seems to be discounting them so much. They are an up and down team, but can play up.
We have the Steelers twice. Forgive me for stating the obvious, but less then a season removed from the Super Bowl, they have plenty of weapons. They would also love to beat the Ravens, and that game is always a tough one for both sides.
We have the Bengals that are 4-5 currently, but only trail us in the AFC North. They are well within the running still with 7 weeks left. They have a potent offense, albeit a somewhat whiny one. And we play at Cinci.
Kansas City is also 5-4, and the Bills and Browns are both 3-6, but can show up any Sunday. The Browns are a division game, which gives it added pressure.
Game Preview
For this week's Game Preview, we visit Extreme Ravens
As Tim says, it all depends on which Vick shows up on Sunday, We are at the top though, so WE are the ones everyone wants to knock off. Expect all the teams to feel like underdogs.
As Tim says, it all depends on which Vick shows up on Sunday, We are at the top though, so WE are the ones everyone wants to knock off. Expect all the teams to feel like underdogs.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Jim Mora Press Conference (excerpts)
Q: Opening Statement
Mora: The injury report is pretty much the same. Jimmy Williams did not practice today because he is sore, he is questionable. He will be a game time decision. Ed Hartwell looked good. He did a round-off back flip just to prove he had spring back in his legs. Todd Weiner practiced and he is still questionable. Chris Crocker practiced, Grady Jackson practiced, Alge Crumpler practiced and Jerious Norwood practiced. Jimmy was the only guy who didn’t practice. Marlion Jackson apparently tore his pectoral muscle. He did it this morning lifting weights. They just told him and he will have to have surgery. You have to just keep fighting. We have some things going on around here that I am not accustomed to, but that is okay. We will keep fighting.
How do you get going against these guys?
Mora: You would like to set yourself up with good special teams play and hopefully get a takeaway and put a drive together and put some points on the board. If you can pin them back there on special teams, you can eventually shorten the field for you offense. They are a good defense. They are a solid team. They have bounced back from last year and are 7-2 and playing well.
From the INBOX
The Ravens are 7-2. That is frigging great. The Raven’s are off to their best record in franchise history. This also is frigging great. Steve McNair, the offensive leader of the team, has the coolest head in the NFL and rarely gets flustered. Again, great to the friggingest of levels. Why then, does no one want to write on these topics instead of ripping the team apart regarding the running, and offensive blocking. Maybe I am cocky, or foolishly positive, but I am happy about what the Birds are doing and am looking forward to more of the same.
- bigploch, Sr. Sports Correspondent
Have a thought? Email it at baltimoreravenstalk at gmail dot com
Manning Leads the ProBowl Voting
Peyton Manning is leading the charge with 530,733 votes. Top 10 looks like this:
Some Ravens are leading for the position votes though:
Jonathon Ogden - T
Ray Lewis - ILB
Ed Reed - FS
- Peyton Manning, Colts
- LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers
- Tiki Barber, Giants
- Donovan McNabb, Eagles
- Marvin Harrison, Colts
- Antonio Gates, Chargers
- Torry Holt, Rams
- Tom Brady, Patriots
- Drew Brees, Saints
- Alge Crumpler, Falcons
Some Ravens are leading for the position votes though:
Jonathon Ogden - T
Ray Lewis - ILB
Ed Reed - FS
Jamal "not really sure" why he averages 3 yards a carry
Hmm. I have some ideas.
The Ravens have gained 100 yards only 4 of 9 games (as a team, Lewis only once). Even against the Titan's 31st ranking run defense, they struggled to get the running game "running".
When will we stop comparing Jamal to 3 years ago?
Source: Carroll County Times
“No, there’s no easy answer,” Lewis said. “You could say the running back has to run the ball harder. You can say that the linemen need to block better. You could say that we need to throw for 500 yards, but that’s not going to happen and we just have to go out and execute and keep on doing what we’re doing and we’ll get better.”
The Ravens have gained 100 yards only 4 of 9 games (as a team, Lewis only once). Even against the Titan's 31st ranking run defense, they struggled to get the running game "running".
When will we stop comparing Jamal to 3 years ago?
Injury Report 11/17/06 - Week 11
WR Derrick Mason, Baltimore Ravens Questionable (calf)-Mason will start in Week 11.
TE Todd Heap, Baltimore Ravens Questionable (ankle)-Heap will start in Week 11.
TE Todd Heap, Baltimore Ravens Questionable (ankle)-Heap will start in Week 11.
Ravens vs. Falcons Preview
The Falcons limp to Baltimore this week to battle the Ravens.
Mike Duffy's article
Falcons Gameday Report
(Atlanta's Journal Constitution requires a subscription)
The Falcons are having some injury issues, but Vick, Crumpler and crew can NEVER be understimated. The Ravens will need to protect the deep ball, which they have had some difficulty with in past games.
Mike Duffy's article
Falcons Gameday Report
(Atlanta's Journal Constitution requires a subscription)
The Falcons are having some injury issues, but Vick, Crumpler and crew can NEVER be understimated. The Ravens will need to protect the deep ball, which they have had some difficulty with in past games.
Ray Lewis out for Falcons game
As reported in the Baltimore Sun HERE
Ray will probably sit out Sunday's game. This is a bit of a disappointment, there was more then one play last Sunday where they could have used him, but with the Falcons already reeling from injuries, the D should be able to hold it together. It is reported that Johnson will fill in.
Ray will probably sit out Sunday's game. This is a bit of a disappointment, there was more then one play last Sunday where they could have used him, but with the Falcons already reeling from injuries, the D should be able to hold it together. It is reported that Johnson will fill in.
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