Texans down, Patriots on deck!
The NFL is all about winning and the Ravens win. Joe Flacco wins, Ray Lewis and Ed Reed win. For all the criticisms that Ray Lewis and Ed Reed took in the media last week, they answered the bell. For all the unrelenting criticism of Joe Flacco he answered the bell. He delivered the ball, unfortunately there were multiple dropped passes. On the other hand, there were a few highlight film catches. Lee Evans delivered one of the best receptions of the season. It reminds me of the ex-Raven Travis Taylor that would make the spectacular catch but have problems with the ball that hit him in the hands.
Don’t under estimate what the Texans brought to the Vault on Sunday; an excellent defense and a pounding offense. It was an improved Texans team from the one the Ravens had defeated earlier this year. What they lost in the passing game when Shaub was injured put more into their running game. Sound vaguely familiar? Great defense, running game… the Ravens took advantage and won. They played a fundamentally sound game, no penalties for the first time in Ravens history. The Ravens defense shut the Texans out in the second half and moved this team to their second AFC Championship in four years.
The Patriots bring different challenges this week in their high octane offense, the pass happy run up and down the field style. Tom Brady presents a huge challenge to the defense. The Ravens should be able to move the ball with more consistency this week. The style of defense that the Patriots play compared to the style that the Texans or other AFC North teams play is very different. The Ravens offense should be able to exploit weaknesses on the Patriots defense.
This is the type of game that the Ravens thrive on. They are getting very little respect as the early line has them as 7.5 point underdogs. The national media is giving them very little chance. The local media is giving them little chance. Enjoy the week, enjoy watching the Ravens. They have given the fans another great season.
Rise and Conquer!
