By Ryan Burnett, Staff Writer
With the 2023 preseason coming to an end, the regular season is right around the corner. The Ravens during the preseason went 1-2 this year. The last preseason loss was handed to the Ravens by the New York Giants in 2016.
During the preseason, fans got a glimpse into the future of the Ravens. Players such as Zay Flowers and Trenton Simpsons showcased their talents on the field. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley led the way just like the 2022 season without Lamar Jackson.
Lacking star players, the Ravens had an embarrassing 29-28 loss to the Washington Commanders. In that game the Ravens had a chance to stop the Commanders on their final drive, but they failed and lost the game.
Starting quarterback Lamar Jackson comes back to the Ravens for what possibly may be his biggest season yet. He has to prove to fans that he is worth all of the money that the team signed him for, which is $260 million for five years. If he does not perform well, the team might have to reconsider their QB situation. Sadly just like last year, Senior Cole Messina states “I think he will get injured and not play again.”
This off season the Ravens made a blockbuster deal signing star wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. to a one year $15 million deal. This adds to make the receiving core one of the best in the league. Odell can also be a mentor to younger players such as Zay Flowers and turn them into stars.
The Ravens also extended middle linebacker Roquan Smith to a 5 year $100 million contract with a $22.5 million signing bonus. This season he will have to showcase his talents to show he is worth his contract. Senior Alex Masih says “the defense will do good because we have all the best players.”
With such a high power offense and defense the Ravens are projected to be one of the best teams in the league. Senior Hao Bei Balentine explains “I think they will do pretty good… they have a kind of easy schedule.” Agreeing Nick Moss says “ I hope they will do well… I mean the Super Bowl is always the goal.” Only time will tell.
Now on to their third offensive coordinator since 2017, the team fired Greg Roman. He has been working on the team for several years. It will be interesting to see how the offense changes with all of their talents.
With all the hype the Ravens have shown, all fans can do is wait for September 10th when the ball is kicked off the tee when they play the Houston Texans.