Ravens 2016 Finale Should be Interesting
Although it might not be all that exciting, Sunday’s game in Cincinnati should be interesting.
Betting sites list the Ravens (8-7) as 2.5 point underdogs to the Bengals (5-9), a line that raises a few eyebrows and one that suggests that the visitors might not bring their “A” game.
With nothing to play for other than pride, you have to wonder if the Ravens collective self-esteem is enough to attract their full attention and focus on the field. That mindset probably influences any online bet on sports, particularly one involving these teams on New Year’s Day.
After all the Ravens are fresh off a heartbreaking loss on Christmas Day to the Steelers and it will be their first game that has no bearing on playoff implications. Meanwhile the Bengals have been playing out the season with no playoff hopes for weeks. They’ve already adjusted to the prideful mindset.
It’s only natural for players with big dollar contracts to want to protect their bodies and not risk injury. Might Lardarius Webb shy away from a physical tackle with a big tight end bearing down? Could Mike Wallace showcase a set of alligator arms on a crosser with Vontaze Burfict waiting to tee off on him? In a way you can’t blame them. After all football is their livelihood.
For John Harbaugh the stakes may be a bit higher. ESPN’s Jamison Hensley reported a team source has indicated that Harbaugh’s current contract extends beyond 2017 which means he won’t enter next season as a lame duck. The length of the extension is anyone’s guess. If owner Steve Bisciotti’s past behaviors are any indication, he will not let a head coach’s extension influence what he believes is best for the team. Just ask Brian Billick.
Harbaugh has made it clear that they will play to win. But really, what else is he supposed to say? The smarter approach would be to play guys whose role might change next season. Chris Moore should see more snaps on offense than Wallace. Alex Lewis should play at right tackle instead of the roster-filling James Hurst. Matt Judon should start ahead of Terrell Suggs who is still dealing with a biceps injury.
Even Ryan Mallet should take the lion’s share of snaps at quarterback.
What’s the point of risking an injury to Joe Flacco?
To finish the day at (9-7) instead of (8-8)?
Let’s not worry about moral victories.
Let’s start focusing on how to make 2017 better.
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