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The Long Season Ahead

By JoeSequel, Section NFL
Posted on Fri Oct 14 2005 at 12:34 AM EST
More on: (all tags)

The preseason hype surrounding the Baltimore Ravens was amazing.  Many respected analysts even had the Ravens going to the Super Bowl.  As a result of Jim Fassel being promoted to Offensive Coordinator, and Derrick Mason being brought in as a #1 receiver, the Ravens were supposed to put up points this season.  However, after Week 5, the season may officially be over.

After squeaking out a win against a run down New York Jets team last week, Brian Billick and company looked to put a string of wins together against a struggling Detroit Lions team; minus Charles Rogers who was suspended this week for violating the league's substance abuse policy.  Unfortunately for the good people of Baltimore, Week 5 appeared to be more of the same.  On the Ravens first possession, Anthony Wright threw a crucial interception to start the game, leading to a rushing touchdown by Kevin Jones.  Things did not get better for Baltimore, as Kevin Jones picked up a Joey Harrington fumble and the Ravens defense basically stood around as Jones took the ball within the 5 yard line.  Overall, the Baltimore Ravens veteran team looked undisciplined in a 35-17 loss.  The game was truly out of control as the Ravens racked up a team record 21 penalties for 147 yards.  In addition, the four turnovers served as metaphorical nails in the coffin.  The ejections of both Terrell Suggs and B.J Ward for contact with the officials were perfect illustrations of a team truly falling apart.  It was sad watching, as 37 year old Deion Sanders missed coverage assignments, and got burned for a 77 yard touchdown run by Shawn Bryson.  Seriously, wasn't Deion considered done in Washington?

Last year, Brian Billick brought in former New York Giants head coach Jim Fassel as an executive consultant.  This year, Fassel was promoted to Offensive Coordinator and promises of a new and improved offense filled the headlines.  Although Jamal Lewis finally showed signs of his old self against the Lions, this incarnation of the Ravens offense appears to be one of the worst yet.  It is about time the people of Baltimore start holding Brian Billick accountable for his decisions.  The supposed offensive genius from the Vikings organization has made terrible choices during his tenure in Baltimore.  If it wasn't for Randy Moss and the spectacular Ravens defense over the years, Brian Billick would be without a job.  This stubborn coach continues to put his stock in Kyle Boller (expected to return next week), even though Boller has proven he cannot get the job done at the NFL level.  This is the 10th anniversary for the Ravens, who have yet to find the quarterback to run their offense.  In fact, does the name Elvis Grbac ring a bell?

The Baltimore Ravens are a team with serious problems.  This season is already a failure, and the feeling of a long drawn out season is apparent.  2005-2006 was supposed to be different, and Billick called on fans for their support this season.  However, the team has shown nothing to cheer for this year.  The true fans in Baltimore are left with a bitter taste in their mouth after the debacle on Sunday, and this time it's not from the cheap beer.