Storyline: This looks to be a rebound year for the Baltimore Ravens. With strong roster and favorable schedule the Ravens should go at least 10-6, perhaps even 13-3. Written by Justin V., Gambrills, MD.
After a rough season in 2015–with injuries plaguing the team–the Baltimore Ravens look to bounce back in grand fashion. They’ve done it before. Baltimore went 5-11 in 2007 and finished 11-5 the following year. So, if history’s any indication, 2016 will be better than 2015.
Mike Wallace with Coach John Harbaugh (photo, wbal.com)
To help, the Ravens made a number of off-season changes. Notable signings included WR Mike Wallace, TE Benjamin Watson, and S Eric Weddle. Those were offensive upgrades, boosted even more by the draft additions of RB Kenneth Dixon and WR Keenan Reynolds, two players that had prolific college careers. The Ravens also added O-lineman Ronnie Stanley from Notre Dame in the draft, a much needed addition after losing Kelechi Osemele to Free Agency.
In addition to new faces in Owings Mills, the team gets back injured players. The notables are RB Justin Forsett, QB Joe Flacco, WR Steve Smith Sr., LB Terrell Suggs, and maybe even TE Dennis Pitta, depending on his finger. Those guys are hungry for action.
Terrell Suggs (photo, USAToday.com)
But the secondary is still a problem area–as it has for the past two years. But with young blood and fresh motors (in Correa, Henry, and Judon) and Terrell Suggs coming back, Baltimore’s pass rush looks lethal. The stop crew can take some of the pressure off the secondary.
If the Ravens can stay healthy, they could go at least 10-6 or 11-5–at best, 13-3. The roster is generally strong and the schedule is favorable for a very good year. 13-3 may be a stretch, but 10-6 or 11-5 is clearly feasible.
I have faith in you guys. Go Ravens!
