Will Ray Stay?

Feb. 23, 2009, 5:36 PM

Ray Lewis and the Ravens go hand in hand. It is hard to think of the organization without Ray. And the way this team has played football for the last 13 years, seems to be an extension of # 52’s style of play.

Yet there is a strong possibility that come Friday morning, Ray Lewis will be a unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. Over the weekend, Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome said that the two parties are working on getting a deal done, but my gut says that it’s not going to happen.

Normally, there is no way a team would pay a 13 year veteran at middle linebacker the kind of money Ray is asking for. But then again, this isn’t a normal player we are talking about. No one can ever question the intensity and effort that Ray has brought to the table each Sunday over the course of his career. Another point that I don’t think can be argued is the fact that he raises the level of play of those around him. He is extremely unique in that sense, so he is justified in wanting a lucrative contract.

The Ravens’ mindset right now is probably this: Ray, thank you for everything you’ve done. You have represented this team and city tremendously. We would love to keep you around, but we believe that we wouldn’t be doing what’s financially best for the team by giving you, a 33 year old (34 in May), the money you’re asking for.

As for Ray, he has been quoted as saying it’s always been his dream to wear the Dallas Cowboys’ star on his helmet. Now the Cowboys might want Ray just like he wants them, but they would have to pay up to sign Ray and I think their mindset is similar to the Ravens. They wouldn’t be getting the best bang for their buck by throwing the big money at Lewis.

So will Ray go to some team other than the Ravens or Cowboys? If he is chasing the best offer, sure. But the Ray Lewis I have seen for the past 10+ years wants to win championships. I would have a hard time seeing him agree to a deal with say… the Lions, if they happened to have the best deal.

If he does sign with the Ravens, he could get a good deal now or test the free agent market and possibly get a great deal. But if no team wants to take the plunge on Ray, the Ravens will still offer him what they believe is a fair and competitive contract. But the thing is by the time that second opportunity comes along, it could be a far lesser amount because of the money the Ravens will have spent on new free agents and draft picks. They may want to give Ray what they originally offered, but can’t without going over the cap.

The Ravens will not let Ray hold them hostage. They have got to be saying to Ray: it’s now or never; take it or leave it.

I really hope the two can agree to terms, but the reality is this: It could be a tough end to a great era in Baltimore football history.

Ravens 33 – Cowboys 24

Dec. 21, 2008, 12:50 AM

The Ravens made a huge statement Saturday night, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 33-24 and closing the doors of Texas Stadium for good.

Le’Ron McClain and Willis McGahee slammed the door on any hope of a Cowboy comeback with 2 of the 3 longest runs in franchise history.

Ed Reed was great again. He had 2 interceptions in the first half and further made his case for being named NFL Defensive Player of the Year

Derrick Mason was amazing. He was clearly in pain the whole game with a separated shoulder yet still led this team in yards and receptions. A heroic effort on his end.

Last QB to win at Texas Stadium? That’s right…Joe Flacco

I will post more on this colossal win tomorow morning.

Week 16: Ravens-Cowboys Preview

Dec. 20, 2008, 11:59 AM

Game Info:

Kickoff: 8:15 p.m. (ET)

Site: Texas Stadium (65,559) • Irving, Tx.

TV: NFL Network

Announcers: Bob Papa (play-by-play) Deion Sanders (color ) Marshall Faulk (color)

Overview – The deal is simple for the Ravens at this point in the season. If they win out, they make the playoffs. They control their own destiny. That is all any team can ask for while they make a push for the post season. There will be a bunch of extra hype surrounding tonight’s game as it is the final regular season game in Texas Stadium’s history.

MATCHUPS

Ravens Offense vs. Cowboys Defense – With the Cowboys defense, everything starts with linebacker DeMarcus Ware. He is as talented as they come when it comes to getting pressure on the quarterback. He leads the NFL with 19 sacks. Ravens tackle Jared Gaither did an excellent job against the Steelers’ James Harrison last week, it will be interesting to see if he can hold his own against one of…if not the best pass rusher in the NFL. Joe Flacco simply cannot make any costly picks. He will feel the pressure. If he can spot the holes left from the Dallas blitzes in time, he could have a very decent game. The Ravens rushing attack should have a but more success than they experienced against Pittsburgh.

Cowboys Offense vs. Ravens Defense – This will be a very exciting matchup to watch. How will Tony Romo and T.O. fare against the likes of Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Terrell Suggs? I think Terrell Owens has a clear advantage over the Ravens’ corners. He is bigger, faster, and stronger than any of the players who could be covering him (Frank Walker, Fabian Washington, Corey Ivy, Samari Rolle). It wouldn’t surprise me if Dallas gets him involved early and often. Marion Barber missed practice on Friday and most likely will not play. This leaves Tashard Choice the job of running against a very tough Baltimore defense. The Ravens have gone 33 straight games without allowing a 100 yard rusher. That streak dates back two calendar years to December 10, 2006, when Kansas City’s Larry Johnson ran for 120 yards. I think it is safe to say the Ravens have the advantage here. If Tony Romo gets time to throw tonight, it could be a long game for the Ravens. They need to get pressure on him to have any chance of winning. Last year’s Divisional playoff game in which the Giants got to Romo from all angles comes to mind.

The Prediction – The Ravens need this game badly. I think they have a real shot at winning only if they play near perfect football. There is no way they can expect to beat a team as talented as Dallas if penalties and turnovers are happening left and right. There is no room for error. So I think the Ravens play a solid game tonight, but the ‘Boys will be a little better and close Texas Stadium with a hard fought win. COWBOYS 27-17