As an avid sports fan, writing an eulogy for the team I cheer for is possibly the worst task I have to do. This season after countless obstacles though, I am anything but disappointed while I write this article. Losing a heartbreaking divisional round game to the Mighty Patriots in a back and forth battle, was a culmination of the roller coaster type season this Baltimore team had.
Back in training camp many media pundits were quick to count the Ravens out, pegging them as an 8-8 team at best. Theories began to build on the fact that Joe Flacco and his larger than life contract were detrimental to the success of his team. Heading into September with Ray Rice suspended for the first two games, the mindset was clear. The hopes of making the postseason and challenging for a Super Bowl hung on the arm of Joe Cool. New offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak was up to the challenge and to combat the stagnant ground game he brought a much different style to a once monotone offense, resulting in outstanding success in the run department. Thus propelling Justin Forsett to career highs in all categories, claiming the 5th spot amongst running backs for total rushing yards.
The first obstacle in the way, arguably the biggest one at that , was the Ray Rice scandal previously mentioned. What started off as a two game suspension, soon turned to an indefinite verdict and a contract termination from the team barring new evidence that had surfaced. With a lengthy hassle of a court case on the horizon, players and coaches alike shot down allegations and questions regarding their teammate and proverbial brother. Focusing largely on their own careers the team distanced themselves as far from the situation as possible, only to be forced back into it every time they approached the podium for a meeting with the media. Nonetheless they responded with class and professionalism, exuding confidence from the first time they stepped onto the field until the last.
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