Here is my analysis of the Ravens first preseason contest. I know .. its not like anyone wants to hear that… I mean most Ravens fans wouldn’t want to be bored with my analysis. But that is why I have a blog. So I can ramble on and on about what ever my heart desires. So here it goes…
Overall the Ravens looked good. The Defense, as expected, looked great. They kept Vick quiet (for all tree snaps he was allowed) and they did not allow Atlanta to score. A shut out is a shut out … preseason or not. In particular, I was happy to see the secondary playing well even while they were playing short handed. The Offense got off to a slow start, but Kyle Boller was able to lead the on a 95 yard drive down the field that resulted in a very pretty TD pass. There are still some who can’t seem to help themselves in criticizing Boller, but I think all thing considered he looker good. I was impressed with Kevin Johnson who stretched out and grabbed a pass to keep that drive alive. The first team Offense looked to me as though it was very much missing the presence of Orlando “Zeus” Brown at Right Tackle. Ethan Brooks was filling in and got beat by defenders several times letting the Atlanta defense in the back field.
Other Notes…
I thought Kordell Stewart looked horrible. This guy has oodles of experience and he led the Steelers to playoffs in 97 and 01. And there he was making poor decisions and looking confused against a second string defense. Not only that, but when he did manage to throw a touchdown pass , he ran towards the endzone like he was going to celebrate but no one was there for him to celebrate with. If he can’t inspire those he’s on the field with he serve no do us no good as a back up quarterback if we ever need him.
If Jamal Lewis is going to miss some time this season due to his pending legal situation (I’m sure I’ll have more to say about that as the court date gets closer,) Musa Smith is going to have to step it up. He looked OK, but I hope to see significant improvement from him over the next few preseason games.
Overall, this team looks to me as though they could go deep into the postseason this year, as long as Boller continues to develop and the team stay healthy (and out of jail.)