2010 NFL Predictions: Baltimore Ravens

June 27, 2010

Always known for their defensive prowess, the Baltimore Ravens have been making huge strides on offense. Since drafting quarterback Joe Flacco in the first round, the Ravens have been piecing together an offense that has gone from the cellar to 13th in the league in 2009.

Baltimore’s head coach John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Cam Cameron have decided to open up the passing attack. Joe Flacco passed for 2971 yards and had 14 touchdown passes during his rookie season in 2008. Last season he threw 71 more passes and had over 600 more yards through the air while completing 7 more touchdown passes for a total of 21. The reason for the confidence in the passing game is due to the tremendous rush offense. Ray Rice had a breakout year in 2009. He went from being the second option, to the starting running back, and took advantage of it. Rice rushed for 1339 yards with 7 touchdowns in 2009, and should have similar numbers in 2010. The fact that defenses are now crowding the box to contain the Ravens running game is why Flacco has increased his productivity so dramatically from his 1st to 2nd season.

Flacco will have many options in the passing game this year as Baltimore picked up Anquan Boldin in the off-season. Derrick Mason, Todd Heap and Ray Rice were the top 3 receivers for the Ravens last year, but none of the 3 could be considered a number 1. Boldin brings that number 1 receiver threat to the Baltimore offense. This team is in a division that is dominated by defense, but they should find themselves ahead of the pack on both sides of the ball this year.

Defensively, Baltimore has been dominant for almost a decade. The defense has been centered around Ray Lewis since he was drafted out of Miami. Despite being in his 15th NFL season, Lewis is still the leader on defense. He led the team with 95 tackles last season, and demands excellence from the rest of his unit. The coaching staff has given Lewis and company some help for the upcoming season as they used their first 2 draft picks to sure up the defensive line. Defensive end Sergio Kindle and tackle Terrence Cody were both taken in the second round of the NFL draft, and should contribute right out of the gate.

Overall the Baltimore Ravens are in great shape to win the AFC North division title and are currently listed by Vegas oddsmakers as 7-1 to win the AFC title. The majority of NFL handicappers feel as though this team will cover many “over” bets this season as the offense should be firing on all cylinders. Typically Baltimore games have low totals due to their reputation as defensive juggernauts, but that may all change in 2010. Expect the Ravens to easily make the playoffs as they have a futures win total over/ under of 10. What they do from there all depends on who they face and how well the offense is clicking.

Written by Glenn Andrew · Filed Under NFL

Comments

Got something to say?