I do not care if the Baltimore Ravens are unexpectedly pushed today, as long as they win. In the NFL, there is no credit for style points. The only thing that ever matters at the end of day, is did you put a W or an L in the ledger?
However, beyond getting a win, there are a few things I want to see accomplished today.
1) Total Domination of the KC offensive-line from the Ravens defensive-line. KC has a solid left-side with Albert, and Walter but have limitations from Center, RG, and RT. I want to see bodies rotating in-and-out for the Ravens, and I want to see the Ravens be able to collapse the pocket just with their front-4.
2) I want to see Flacco gain 300 yards in the air, and work on establishing Clayton, Williams, and Heap as weapons that have to be game-planned for.
3) KC has a front 7 that is full of former 1st-round picks. I want to see the Ravens offensive-line show they can win their individual match-ups without requiring additional blockers.
4) Dwayne Bowe is one of the most physically gifted receivers in football. Opposite of him, Mark Bradley also has good-size. I feel good about the ability of Washington, and Foxworth to cover most receivers, but they need to show they can match-up against stronger, taller wide-outs.
5) I think it is important for Hauschka to hit his first-attempt, and certainly any kick that winds-up carrying some pressure. Also with Special Teams, I want Carr to get off to a strong-start with the return-game.
Game 1 is a statement game. The Ravens need to take control of the game as quickly as possible, and impose their will. I get the impression that KC is debating internally about starting Cassell.
I am sure that KC wants unveil their new toy, that had 3,700 yards passing last year. However, they also have to protect their investment. If Cassell’s knee is going to make him a sitting-duck for the Ravens defense, they can not play him today.
I am also sure that KC realizes they will not be able to run the ball between the tackles. Their hope in winning today, is spreading the field a bit, and pulling Raven defenders out of the box. If Cassell is not able to play, it is difficult to envision a scenario where KC keeps the game close.
27-10 Ravens.
Owner
Chris Stoner founded Baltimore Sports and Life in 2009. He has appeared as a radio guest with 1090 WBAL, 105.7 The Fan, CBS 1300, Q1370, WOYK 1350, WKAV 1400, and WNST 1570. He has also been interviewed by The Baltimore Sun, Baltimore Business Journal, and PressBox (TV). As Owner, his responsibilities include serving as the Managing Editor, Publicist, & Sales Director.