Ravens Coach John Harbaugh Declares ‘Season Begins Now’ as Team Eyes Playoff Push
After a tumultuous start to the season, the Baltimore Ravens have emerged from the bye week with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Head coach John Harbaugh has issued a rallying cry, declaring that the “season begins now” for the 8-5 Ravens.
Background and Context
The Ravens have faced adversity throughout the 2022 campaign, with injuries and inconsistent play plaguing the team. However, a recent stretch of three consecutive wins has reignited optimism in Baltimore. The Ravens now sit in a three-way tie for first place in the AFC North, with a crucial matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers looming on Sunday.
Harbaugh’s Statement
In a press conference following the team’s bye week, Harbaugh emphasized the importance of playing their best football in the remaining games of the regular season. “We want to play our best football right now,” Harbaugh said. “This is where it all starts. We’re in a good position, but we have a lot of work to do. We need to take it one game at a time and focus on getting better every week.”
Key Players to Watch
The Ravens’ success will hinge on the contributions of several key players, including:
- Lamar Jackson: The reigning NFL MVP has been dealing with a foot injury but is expected to play against the Steelers. His mobility and playmaking ability are crucial to the Ravens’ offense.
- JK Dobbins: The running back has returned from a torn ACL and has provided a spark to the Ravens’ rushing attack. His explosiveness and versatility will be vital in the playoffs.
- Marlon Humphrey: The All-Pro cornerback is one of the best in the league at shutting down opposing receivers. His coverage skills will be tested by Pittsburgh’s talented wideouts.
Remaining Schedule
The Ravens have a challenging schedule ahead of them, with four of their remaining five games against teams currently in playoff contention. Their remaining opponents include:
- Pittsburgh Steelers (away)
- Cleveland Browns (home)
- Atlanta Falcons (away)
- Cincinnati Bengals (home)
- Pittsburgh Steelers (home)
Playoff Implications
The Ravens currently hold the sixth seed in the AFC playoff race. With a strong finish to the regular season, they could potentially secure a home playoff game. However, a few slip-ups could drop them out of the playoff picture entirely.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Ravens have reached a critical juncture in their season. Coach John Harbaugh’s message of urgency has resonated with the team, who are determined to make a playoff push. With key players returning from injury and a challenging schedule ahead, the Ravens’ fate lies in their own hands. The “season begins now” for Baltimore, and their fans will be eagerly watching to see if they can rise to the occasion.