After a week when we ALL were emotional wrecks, Ray Lewis and the Ravens eased everyone’s concerns. Twenty-four points and an unbelievable win later, the Baltimore Ravens are one step closer to New Orleans.
Sure, the next stop on the trip does land in Denver, but let’s dwell on that win for a day.
Be honest, after the defense surrendered a mere nine points and Ray Lewis made his victory lap, you were in tears. Of course we aren’t going to actually admit that we cried, but we all know there wasn’t a dry eye in Charm City. Why? Because the Defensive Player of the Game once again amazed us all…
Ray Lewis: With Sunday’s performance, Ray Lewis answered every person that said he didn’t “have it.” Could there have been a bigger “In Your Face”?
With his 13 tackles, he led the Ravens to a phenomenal defensive performance. You know, I found it almost comical when clueless commentators across the country bashed Ray Lewis all week. If there is anyone in the NFL who will take one man’s negative words and turn them into inspiration, it’s Suga’ Ray.
Lewis single-handedly turned M&T Bank Stadium into a nut-house. I have never heard Baltimore so loud in my life. And how fitting was it to have Ray Lewis in for the last kneel down of the game? That was a class act by Torrey Smith. To come out of the game and let Ray bask in his glory for one last time, was very appropriate.
Offensively, it was a very streaky day. Ray Rice has led the charge all year, but in this game he left his hands at home.
Joe Flacco also had a very off-and-on day, but I have to give credit where it is due! #5 led the O to an impressive 2nd half. His day was capped with a perfect strike to a guy who was the clear Offensive Player of the Game:
Anquan Boldin: Boldin caught almost half of Joe Flacco’s passes Sunday, and he made every one count. He averaged 29 yards on the five snags and helped Joe Flacco’s confidence throughout the day.
Before the game, Boldin talked to Flacco and told him that he was feeling 200 yards today. While he wasn’t quite at 200, he made the impact that Flacco and Co. needed.
If Jim Caldwell wants to keep up with Peyton Manning next week, Anquan Boldin has to be a leading factor.
Coaching was superb the entire game. John Harbaugh and his staff helped the team secure the victory and advance to Denver.
The Ravens will play the Broncos at 4:30 next Saturday.
