Why Ravens boo birds should return to their corner

“Poe v. The Flock: Round 1 of 17” | © Andrew Sgroi. All Rights Reserved

This past Monday night’s back-and-forth season opener in Las Vegas, Nevada, left Ravens fans crestfallen at the end of the 33-27 defeat in overtime—and for good reason.

For Baltimore to squander a 14-point lead in the second quarter, a pair of seven-point cushions during the second half, and then a three-point advantage with less than a minute remaining in regulation was simply too much to forgive.

Compounding the misery was how almost certain victory was jettisoned—abandoning the run game late, sieve-like pass protection, and interminable blitz packages left exposing a significantly depleted secondary.

And now, with the two-time defending AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs up next for the Ravens—during a prime time, nationally-televised home opener, no less—a still-wounded flock of fans readies itself for its worst fear…a potential 0-2 start to the season.

The Ravens haven’t experienced such a dubious distinction since 2015, the last time they finished the season with a losing record. And before that, it had been another 10 years (in 2005). It’s fair to say that The Flock isn’t used to early-season angst, so one can understand the universal hand-wringing all across social media following Monday night’s loss.

But this isn’t the time to lose hope.

Sure, Kansas City has dominated the series since Patrick Mahomes was handed the keys to the franchise. And yes, his supporting cast is as advertised—fast, polished and dangerous.

So let’s make no mistake about it. This is the mother of all tests, at an already critical juncture for a spanking brand new season.

But as Coach Harbaugh has repeatedly said in the past, “Iron sharpens iron.” Which is fancy coach-speak for “grow a set.”

Although he’s intended that expression to motivate his players, it fittingly extends to the fans as well.

That’s not to say that hearty, passionate critique isn’t warranted. There was plenty to be disappointed about during Monday’s winnable game.

But the persistent whining from fans should not be what defines us.

Remember when Baltimore was left without a franchise from 1984-1995? If you don’t, then you should count your blessings that you didn’t have to live through those dozen, dark seasons.

And if you do, then you probably shouldn’t complain too much.

Maybe the Ravens will start the season 0 and 2.

Just keep this in mind: in football terms, Baltimore has literally been a reclamation project before.

That’s the prevailing reason why it can always do it again.