As we move on in the AFC North NFL previews we turn to the always dangerous Baltimore Ravens. This offseason has seen many moves for this team as they try and make one more push with an aging defense that has a ton of questions heading into the season. Lets take a swing at predicting the 2010 season for the Ravens as we break down the offense, defense, special teams and future odds.
A very disappointing sophomore slump year for QB Flaco for the Ravens in 2009. Still the offense produced some pretty good numbers thanks in big part to the emergence of Rice at RB. In the offseason the Ravens realized they must get more weapons for the passing game and made the big trade to get WR Boldin. The offensive line is young and might have the most upside of any team in the NFL on the Offensive Line. Still the question remains can Flaco make the big throws when it matters.
This is not the same defense that led this franchise to the Super Bowl and with aging veterans Lewis and Reed this might be the last time we see this group together. Many years this defense could win them 8 games by just showing up but this is the year where the defense gets exposed. Reed will miss the first 6-8 games at least, plus Ray Lewis is just getting slower. The secondary got exposed at times in 2009 and they did not upgrade in the offseason. Would not be surprised if 2010 is the year where the defense is in the bottom 15 in the NFL.
A big improvement in the kicking game as Shane Graham will win the job in training camp. Also they get Kock back at punter after a very good 2009. The return game used to be a huge plus for the Ravens of the past but lately they are just average at best.
Odds for 2010 Baltimore Ravens
- Odds to win 2011 Super Bowl +1000
- Odds to win AFC Championship +450
- Odds to win AFC North -145
- Over Under Wins 10 wins for 2010
This one leaves me scratching my head as this team might be a little better on offense with new WR Boldin but Flaco is no superstar and this defense is getting old. With Reed missing half the year we are betting they will really miss him and finsh the year with 9 wins at best. Bet the under wins but don't touch any of the futures as they won't win the division and will struggle to get into the playoffs.
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