Courtesy: Baltimore Sun
*FAN SUBMISSION by Sharvey Smith of Maryland, our first female contributor. Follow on her on twitter @SharSEsq.*
With much adversity this year regarding the Baltimore Ravens, the team is still on path to achieving their goal. First goal, win the division-DONE. Second goal, beat the Indianapolis Colts-DONE. As the Ravens focus their attention on the top seeded, Denver Broncos, the team yet again faces criticism, and doubt among pundits, and critics abroad. The lack of respect is thick in the air, and odds makers have deemed the Ravens as a 7 point underdog vs the Broncos. Last season, Denver was a playoff team, but was considered a joke among pundits. Notably, because the previous quarterback, Tim Tebow, was known as a runner, instead of a quarterback whom could accurately throw from the pocket. This season, future Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning is at the helm. Manning, who has had much success against the Ravens has been touted as MVP front-runner for this 2012 season.
The divisional round match up will be the second meeting between the two teams. The Broncos traveled to Baltimore week 15 to take on the Ravens. The Ravens were missing seven starters during this match up, with five on the defense, and two on offense. Denver, who was much healthier, had it pretty easy against second and third string linebackers for much of the day. The first half of the game, the Ravens stood their ground, and they held Peyton Manning to several 3-and-outs, forcing him off the field. However, the game quickly got out of hand as quarterback Joe Flacco committed two costly turn overs. The first turnover was a fumbled quarterback sneak, and an interception in the red zone, which was taken back to the house for 98 yards by CB Chris Harris. By half time, the score was 17-0 with Denver on top.
Courtesy: Carroll County Times
This second matchup is a totally different story. The Ravens are much healthier, and most of the players are back in the starting lineup. With the exception of CB Lardarius Webb on injured reserve, along with linebacker, Jameel McClain, the Ravens are back. The divisional round game, whom many have titled a mismatch for the Ravens will be 60 minutes of football. I promise you the Broncos are in for a real surprise, as they face a Ravens teams who have made a commitment to providing legendary linebacker, Ray Lewis a legendary finish. Lewis, who announced his retirement on January 2, 2013 will face Peyton Manning for his “Final Ride.” Only this time, the sports world will be shocked with the results of the outcome; I can’t wait for the reaction from the so-called “experts”. Ladies and Gentlemen, the 2012 Ravens are the version of the 2011 Giants. The Ravens have one down, and two remaining before that final game in the Big Easy.
