Coming out of the half, of Monday’s game against the Packers, Baltimore had scored two quick touchdowns and were poised to score another. They were down three points and were getting ready to erase that deficit.
When Joe Flacco dropped back to pass, even he didn’t realize how big this next throw would be. As to ball was in mid-air, all of Baltimore watched intently, hoping the pass would find wide receiver Mark Clayton for the touchdown. But, the ball was intercepted and the Packers’ defender may have taken away more than just the football from the Ravens.
Going into 2009 the Ravens had high expectations and everyone expected them to compete for a spot in the playoffs. Every Baltimore fan thought the second-year quarterback and head coach would have what it takes to bring their team to the next level. At 6-6 through 13 weeks, the playoffs are now something Ravens’ fans are worried they may not see.
“They looked so good when they were 3-0 and now they look average at best,” said Adam Kemmer, a Ravens’ season-ticket holder and avid fan. “Flacco looked better last year and he seems like he’s pressing too much this year and trying to do too much.”
In order for the Ravens to make the payoffs now, a lot of things need to happen. First, they need to win the rest of their games this season. Three of these games should be easy and the season may come down to the game against the Steelers. If they can beat them their chances greatly increase.
Also, the Ravens need help from a number of other teams. The Jacksonville Jaguars and Denver Broncos have to lose at least two games and the Ravens would have to finish with a better record than three other teams that are close below them.
“Last years success has given Baltimore higher standards and to have a .500 team is unacceptable to at least make the playoffs,” says Frank Donald, a Towson student who has been a Ravens’ fan since they first entered the league. “To be in this spot, almost not making the playoffs, is something I don’t think anyone saw coming.
If the Baltimore Ravens make a good run and somehow limp into the playoffs it would be the second time they have done so in the last two years, a feat they haven’t accomplished since the 2000-2001 seasons.
“If they get it together they can definitely win the last four games,” said Kemmer. “The [Detroit] Lions and [Chicago] Bears are easy wins at home and the Steelers on the road is possible because the 4-8 [Oakland] Raiders did it, but I wouldn’t be surprised if we finish 9-7 and miss the playoffs.”
There is hope in Baltimore though and some fans are finding light in this dark situation.
“Even if we don’t make the playoffs, I hope we at least beat the Steelers twice this year,” said Donald. “That would be my playoffs.”
