The Ravens were one of those football teams that got stronger and stronger as the season progressed. Rookie QB Joe Flacco continued to develop through the course of the 2008 NFL season and looked almost like a veteran by the end of the season.

The Ravens ended up making the post season and while they lost, they were certainly pleased with the caliber season they’d had, and looked forward to the 2009 football season.

Entering the 2009 season, there were a few small question marks, especially those relating to the departure of defensive coordinator Rex Ryan. Ryan, who had left the Ravens to take on the head coach position with the New York Jets, was largely credited for the defensive dominance in Baltimore through the course of this decade.

Overall, the defense is becoming older but their competitive spirit is as high as ever. Ray Lewis is their emotional on-field and locker room leader. As long as Lewis is still performing at a high level, the Ravens defense will be a force to be reckoned with. Ed Reed is still one of the best, if not THE, best free-safety in the game today as well.

While the defense in Baltimore seems to be somewhat weaker than in seasons past (the team allowed 24 and 26 points in weeks 1 and 2), this hasn’t been too much of an issue just yet. The offense has made up for it, as the Ravens have scored over 30 points in both week 1 and week 2.

The Ravens are averaging over 400 yards in total offense per game thus far. With the combination of a consistent offense and a defense that still strikes fear in other teams, there is no telling how far the Ravens can go.

Joe Flacco has made use of his receivers, but more importantly, a three-headed monster at running back between Ray Rice, Willis McGahee, and Le’Ron McClain makes for one of the best trios (if not the best) in the NFL.

If anything, the Ravens look stronger this year than last.

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