Jaworski on Patriots-Ravens: Offensive blueprint?
On the offensive side, ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski didn't see much hope that the Ravens could copy the Eagles' so-called "blueprint" for attacking the Patriots in Monday night's game. Employing a quick-release passing game that stretched the Patriot coverage and utilized the middle of the field, the Eagles scored 28 points against New England last Sunday night and, in the process, controlled the ball effectively enough to contain the Patriots' own awesome offense. (Even at that, Jaworski pointed out, the Patriots did score 31 points, held the ball for at least 70 plays and and gained 410 yards).
Yet, Philadelphia did have a fourth-quarter lead and a chance to win it at the end and did so mostly by attacking aggressively on offense.
"The Eagles may not have that No. 1, go-to wide receiver but they do have a pretty good receiving corps where they can bring in three, four receivers," Jaworski said. "But what you really have to factor in there is (running back) Brian Westbrook, who is a big-play difference maker. I don't see where the Ravens have that kind of player who is going to give a defense that kind of matchup problem.
"Plus, (Eagles quarterback) A.J. Feeley did a very good of making the read, quickly processing information and then getting the ball out of his hand right away. And I don't think that Kyle Boller, at this point in his career, can necessarily do that."
Finally, Jaworski said, the Eagles' offensive line played an exceptionally strong game, keeping the Patriots off Feeley's back (he was sacked just twice in 42 pass attempts) while the Ravens' offensive line has struggled for most of the season.
Other than that, Baltimore should be just fine.
Photo credit: Ken Hively/L.A. Times
Comments
I have a $100 bet going that the Ravens win by 2 touchdowns. I know that this is risky; although I am convinced they will win the game, I'm not sure if the margin of victory will be that big. I wish I had more confidence in Billick to run up the score.
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Ghost,
First, thanks for taking the time to write but let me get this straight. You believe the Ravens will win by at least two touchdowns. You're funnin' with me, aren't you. Just so you know, Baltimore is about a 20-point underdog in Vegas. May the heavens smile on your optimism and best of luck there, friend.
-- Bill O.
Posted by: Ghost of A Chance | November 29, 2007 2:21 PM
if every one is healthy i think this game will be much closer than most people think . however i will hold on to my money
GO RAVENS
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A wise man.
-- Bill O.
Posted by: r2d2 | November 29, 2007 7:47 PM
Bill,
I am funnin' with you. I don't expect a Patriots blow out and I think that the Ravens have a chance to win. I do think that they will beat the Patriots up enough so that Pittsburgh beats them next week.
Posted by: Ghost of A Chance | November 30, 2007 7:58 AM
I dont think the Ravens could beat Miami by two touchdowns. I also dont see the Steelers do anything with the Patriots either. 3-0 over the Dolphins is a joke. Regardless of the weather and field.
Posted by: Captain Jack | November 30, 2007 4:32 PM