2021 Baltimore Raves: They Know How to Win

The Ravens enter 2021 seeking their 4th straight playoff berth. They have had the best rushing attack in the league the last two seasons and as long as Lamar Jackson is healthy that should continue. They have taken steps to improve their receiver group and hope to add more big downfield plays. They are always good on defense and their franchise has shown stability and patience over the years as Coach John Harbaugh is entering his 14th season.

Jackson combined for 3762 total yards and was the team’s leading rusher. He is a dynamic player and gives opposing defenses fits. The running back duo of J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edmonds combined for 1528 yards in 2020 and they are both back. The Ravens tried to upgrade their receiving group by signed free agent Sammy Watkins from the Chiefs. He will help if healthy. They also drafted Tylan Wallace in the 4th round and he was a playmaker in college and could be a steal. They also have Mark Andrews at tight end and they plan on utilizing him more in 2021.

The defensive front is not a worry as Calais Campbell, Derek Wolfe, and Brandon Williams all return. The leading tackler was rookie Patrick Queen and fellow rookie Malik Harrison should both take big steps forward in their second year. They are in good shape in the secondary with safeties, DeShon Elliott and Chuck Clark (96 tackles) and Marion Humphrey one of the best cornerbacks in the league.

Schedule:

Must Wins: Indianapolis, LA Chargers, Cincinnati, Minnesota, at Detroit, at Denver, at Chicago, at Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Cleveland

Toss-Up Games: Kansas City, Green Bay, LA Rams, at Miami

Probable Losses: at Las Vegas, at Pittsburgh, at Cleveland

Summary in Two Sentences: If they can improve their passing game and provide balance for their dominant running attack, they will be tough to beat. They are well-coached, physical, hard-nosed, and know how to win.

Predicted Finish: 1st Place in AFC North *Playoff Team*