NFL Predictions for 2010 Season: The Baltimore Ravens

After searching for something to write about, I found it. This morning on an ESPN radio and TV show, Mike & Mike, they continued their 11-year NFL training camp tradition of previewing two teams each day. Today, they previewed the Baltimore Ravens and the Chicago Bears, so I've decided to do this myself. I admit this is not original, but I will do it anyway. I am going to have the four questions they answered, followed by predicting a record. I will start with a preview of the Baltimore Ravens.

1. Have the Ravens surrounded Joe Flacco with enough weapons to be a 4,000 yard passer?

Yes, they added Anquan Boldin and Donte Stallworth this offseason. Boldin now becomes one of the top wide receivers in the AFC, possibly a pro bowler. Stallworth will be a good slot receiver, with Derrick Mason as the starter opposite Boldin. Todd Heap is capable of a 1,000 yard receiving season if he can stay healthy.

2. Is Ray Rice the best running back in the AFC not named Chris Johnson?

The first time I heard this question I thought this was silly, but after looking around the AFC I'd have to say he is third. He is behind Maurice Jones-Drew, only because MJD has been around longer. These two are very similar in build and production. Rice is more of a target out of the backfield, but he may not need to be with Anquan Boldin.

3. Will Anquan Boldin become the Ravens first ever Pro Bowl Wide Receiver?

I think he will. Boldin is in his prime and should make the Pro Bowl a few times, likely this season.

4. Is the defense still an elite unit in the league?

Losing Dominique Foxworth really hurts this defense. Ed Reed is starting to age and cannot stay healthy anymore. Ray Lewis has to drop off in his production at some point and that may be soon. Even with Ladarius Webb and Haloti Ngata, this defense will not be the same.

5. Record?

11-5, First in AFC North.

Below is a link to Mike & Mike's page on ESPN.com, you can check out their opinion on the Ravens. Later today, I'll have the second team of the day: The Chicago Bears.

http://espn.go.com/espnradio/show?showId=mikeandmike

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