Last Sunday we got our first glimpse of what “The Next Flight” will look like for the Baltimore Ravens. Their 41-23 victory over the Indianapolis Colts was a statement win and a solid first step among many that will make up the marathon of this year’s NFL season. However, that doesn’t mean we should start printing the playoff tickets just yet.
It is after all only Week Two.
First the positive, Lamar Jackson looked healthy and in MVP form as he threw for 324 yards and added a Rushing touchdown. Any championship hopes rest on the fact that Jackson is available and playing at his usual high level. Derrick Henry once again showed that age is just a number as he ran for 144 yards with 3 touchdowns. And Zay Flowers, fresh off a $140 million dollar – 4 year extension showed why the franchise put their faith in him as he finished with 150 yards and a touchdown before leaving with a hamstring injury.
Declan Doyle delivered an offense that was centered around its best offensive players and was very creative in keeping the opponent on their heels. My favorite call was the fake reverse into a screen pass to Henry. It’s that type of game planning and execution that a Jackson led unit needs as he enters his ninth season. The offense finished with total of 506 yards gained.
The defense started shaky on the first drive as the Colts marched down the field on their opening possession. They settled in the rest of the way as they held Indy to 251 total yards, had nine quarterback hits and two takeaways.
Minter’s defense gave up 23 points and even he would admit that he wasn’t truly satisfied with himself or the defense and hopes for improvement as we move into the home opener this Sunday.
Looking Ahead
New Orleans comes into Baltimore this week after taking Detroit to overtime before losing 31-30 in a wild game that included a controversial overturned defensive touchdown. Quarterback Tyler Shough is also coming off a season in which he went from backup to starter, and the Saints clearly believe he’s ready to take another step. He was named a team captain this season, and expectations are considerably higher for him and New Orleans in Year two under Kellen Moore.
That said, this is a game that many would expect the Ravens to win and move to 2-0.
The Ravens have been given an opportunity that they haven’t always had in recent seasons: a chance to build momentum early.
The first seven teams on Baltimore’s schedule — Indianapolis, New Orleans, Dallas, Tennessee, Atlanta, Cleveland and Cincinnati — did not make the playoffs last season. The Ravens’ schedule provides a chance to build a foundation before things get considerably more difficult later in the season.
What I’m Watching Sunday
1.The Receiver situation
If Zay Flowers can’t play, who becomes the guy Lamar trusts when the Ravens need a big play?
Flowers was featured prominently last week and with a designation of Day to Day with a hamstring issue I don’t expect him to be on the field. Rashod Bateman should be in line for a much bigger role and the time for him to step up is now. He was targeted only once and didn’t catch a pass against the Colts. Vet Mark Andrews could also see more passes and he needs a bigger performance than the 4 catches for 49 yards he notched last week. Sure, Chris Moore surprised everyone with a big catch but is he really the player that could and should get an expanded role?
2. The Offensive Line
Baltimore had three new starters up front and still ran for 202 yards. That’s extremely encouraging. However, they had seven penalties and it’s obvious that some real questions are going to be asked about this unit as tougher defensive challenges await. If this team is to make return to the playoffs and beyond and lot will ride on the how this group gels together each week.
3. Does Lamar’s new offense continue to evolve?
We know what Lamar can do when things break down. His Houdini act was especially satisfying to watch on 3rd down when it looked like the Colts had him and he slipped out for a first down. It’s a clear sign that he’s healthy and ready for a great season.
The offense was centered around it’s stars in week one as it should be but they will need continue to evolve and find ways to rest Henry over a long season and find ways to integrate other options in the passing game.
4. Loop …There he is
Tyler Loop is the kicker for season. His 57 yard bomb at the end of the half seemed to put everyone at ease. I was a bit worried heading into this year after such a huge miss in Pittsburgh. The fans will be with him .. for now.
Matt has lived in Maryland his entire life and is a graduate of Calvert Hall and Towson University. has always been an avid Baltimore sports fan. Since 2007, he has been writing and talking about Baltimore sports, especially the Ravens. His work has appeared on Ravens Gab, Russell Street Report, and he currently co-hosts a podcast “The Blitz- A Ravens podcast” with Brent Harris.