2008 Baltimore Ravens Season Preview

2008 Baltimore Ravens preview from MadduxSports.com. With the football season around the corner grab the internets best football picks handicapper Maddux Sports and turn a profit while betting against the nfl point spread each and every week.

2008 Baltimore Ravens Predictions
By Adam Barone

Rundown
A 13-3 record in 2006 brought expectations for the Ravens to repeat as division winners. They ended up finishing 5-11, resulting in the firing of head coach Brian Billick.

Injuries to key players were a large part of the problem, with offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden, quarterback Steve McNair, defensive tackle Trevor Pryce, cornerback Chris McAllister, and cornerback Samari Rolle all missing time. Their absence severely hindered Baltimore’s ability to execute.

Almost nothing happened in free agency for Baltimore, neither coming nor going. Quarterback Steve McNair retired, and linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo and cornerback Frank Walker were signed. With almost exactly the same team that went 13-3 returning, there wasn’t much need for any moves.

Despite finishing with such a poor record, the Ravens defense didn’t disappoint. It ranked sixth in the league despite the injuries. Their 22nd ranked offense could have some problems considering McNair’s retirement. Either Kyle Boller or rookie Joe Flacco will have the starting job, but passing opportunities should be limited. Expect Baltimore to rely heavily on running backs Willis McGahee and rookie Ray Rice, and their elite defense.

New head coach John Harbough just has to guide the ship and hope to limit injuries. Getting one of his two quarterbacks to manage the game and limit mistakes will be his toughest task.

Draft Analysis
Solving the signal-caller dilemma and adding depth to protect against more injuries were on every Ravens’ fan’s mind in April.

The tall, lanky Flacco was the choice out of Delaware at pick 18. Whether he’ll be able to translate his success into the pros is uncertain, but his arm strength will never be in doubt.

Rutgers running back Ray Rice, an intriguing compliment to McGahee, was the second round choice. Rice has a low center of gravity and can be expected to give maximum effort every time he touches the football.

Hard hitting strong safety Tom Zbikowski received a ton of hype at Notre Dame. He has only average speed and sometimes struggles in pass coverage, but is one of the most hard-nosed players in this rookie class. Zbikowski is the epitome of break-or-bust.

Now that you read the Baltimore Ravens preview check out the rest of the AFC North teams including the Bengals, Browns, and Steelers.

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