I don't think that any Ravens fan today isn't feeling the bummer that prevails this town. We all know that we were a heartbeat away from winning it. I really didn't want to see the Raven go up against the Steelers. Not because they weren't ready, but because the Steelers just play to kill, not to win. Look what happened to McGhee? Thank the gods of football that he wasn't hurt worse than he was, but that hit was just what the Steelers are capable of. On scale of 1-10, 10 being the worst.....15

Flacco was not up to the task. The assertion that he is the first rookie QB to play in a NFL playoff game is INCORRECT.

BOB WATERFIELD was a rookie when he led the CLEVELAND RAMS to victory over the Washington Redskins in 1945.

the out of bounds penalty was the killer; that player gets cut for stupity!

McClain said his ankle was fine, it was part of the game plan not to run him this week. Given what McClain did this year and how vital he was to our success this was really stupid.

You have to give the Steelers credit for capitalizing on the "game changing" plays.
Personally, I think the most crucial "game changing" play, was the one that never happened. Edgar Jones never even touched Berger on that punt. What was worse is the fact that they called it 15 yard penalty.
If a running into the kicker was called , it would have only been a 5 yard penalty and still 4th Down.
No one expected us to be in the AFC Championship game and things look bright for the future. And anyone who blames Flacco for the INTs just doesn't get it. The kid will only become a better QB for going through all that transpired , this season. He did a remarkable job for a Rookie QB . Maybe the'ol Rookie Wall finally caught up to him. Still, I'm glad we picked him over Ryan and Brohm.
Put Michael Turner in our Backfield and see if your own Passing numbers don't increase.
As much as I can't stand the Steelers, they are almost an exact copy of our own Ravens team. They got us all 3 times this year, and all 3 games were close until the end.
Losing Rex Ryan is gonna be an obstacle to overcome because he may take as many as 2 or 3 coaches with him. The Jets have found a good HC.

I would like to congratulate the Ravens for coming together under a new Head Coach and it was damn exciting to see OFFENSIVE points , put up on the board.
Things may be a bit different next year, but Harbaugh and Cameron have finally found that Franchise QB that Billick could never put a finger on.
Hopefully , the 2009 season won't have us playing 18 straight weeks.
"You listening , Commish ? "

I'm a recent transfer from Delaware and have become a huge Ravens fan. I loved the fact that a UD player is our quarterback and that he played so well all season. When it became apparent that Flacco would be our main quarterback, no one expected a winning season. The fact that he took us to the AFC championship game was nothing but amazing. It has been a wonderful season but many of the players are beat up. I admire the way they've played through the pain and given 100% to give us 2 post season wins. The Steelers were just too tough yesterday. They had a more experienced quarterback and fewer injured players. I have very high hopes for next year.

they had a great season. need to find an outside receiver with speed. probably need to look into another tight end. the o line should improve from this yr. but more speed on offense to combat the speed of pitts defense.

After stewing in disappointment for an hour or so post game I've moved on. It was a very good season and there are plenty of positives to build on. They far exceeded mine, and for that matter the entire league's expectations. The future is bright in Baltimore. GO RAVENS!!

Heart . . . that's what Suggs played with. A dead arm hanging by his side and still able to put "Big Ben" on his butt. I'm very proud of a team that no one predicted to go anywhere, let alone the AFC championship game. If not for the pathetic personal foul on the punt return in the 4th, we would have had good field position and a chance to move the ball and hit a field goal to put us up by one. But we started on our 15 yard line and Troy Sasquachamualu did what he does best and put the game out of reach. Congrats to Rex Ryan for the promotion to the HC ranks. And thank you all the Ravens that played their hearts out every game. Jason Brown, Jarrett Johnson, Justin Bannan, Jim Leonhard didn't get their names in the spotlight but deserved it big time!! I can't wait until next year.

I was at the game yesterday. My feelings, like a lot of fans I think, are mixed. This season was more than any of us could have dreamed of but losing to the Steelers three times is a tough pill to swallow. However, I think it's clear that right now, they are the better team. We had a chance last night to win that game, but we could not deliver. That's the way it goes. I am proud of the Ravens and I am extremely excited about the future of this team. The one question I am not sure how to answer though, is what must this team do to beat the Steelers next season? Perhaps a more experienced Flacco and another year of the offensive line together will get us by them, but this was clearly their year. Great job Ravens! Thanks for an awesome year!

What can you say? One of the best Baltimore football seasons ever. I've been rooting for Baltimore sports since 1954 when I was 9 years old. The Ravens organization accomplished more in one season than I thought possible. They brought that Baltimore Colt style, hard-nosed, integerity laced football back to Baltimore. And along the way they almost made the Superbowl. How cool was that.
With this ownership, front office, and the current coaching staff, it's only going to get far better. Raven season? BIG TIME SUCCESS !!!

It was a great season and the Ravens far exceeded expectations. Having said that, the problems on offense continue to rear their ugly head against quality teams every year. I know Ozzie Newsome is immune to criticism, but the lack of talent on offense, especially at WR, must be addressed. The Ravens were lucky to win in TN and the offense was terrible. I am also interested in seeing how the second coming of Vince Lombardi (John Harbaugh) recovers from losing Rex, Pettine, and Hue Jackson. I wouldn't be surprised if we see a huge drop off.

SHOCK AND AWE!!!

How else can you describe a season that saw the #1 and #2 QB go down before the opening game, then watch the #3 QB, A ROOKIE, be given the reigns to a veteran team?.....

SHOCK!!!

How else can you describe a season that saw us get into the playoffs before New England (Brady or no Brady), then make it to the AFC Championships?......

AWE!!!!!!

How can you describe a turn-around season, with 6 more wins than last year, that had prognosticators predicting an 8 win season as high hopes for this team?.....

SHOCK!!!!!

How can you describe the feelings we have for a team that missed 64 games by starters this season, Mason's one-armed TD catch, Suggs AFC Championship one-armed sacks?....

AWE!!!!!!!

Thanks for a great season, Ravens!

April 2008 It was finally draft day,I had been counting the days along with NFL network,Why Because I knew that the Ravens had a defense that was so good that if they only added a true quality cornerback [not Fabian cant tackle/ soft as butter /fall down/trackman/ Washington] their defense would be as good as the 2000 defense..... possibly even better.Chris Mcalister was obviously done and it was evident that his knee injury would end his run,Samari Rolle had a chronic unpredictable illness but could probably be a good enough second corner... and there was always the option of adding another corner later in the draft or through free agency.I knew after evaluating the available cornerbacks that there were 4 or 5 who were capeable of being great corners who would give the Ravens the defensive solidification they needed to take this team to the superbowl.Terrel Suggs was almost peaking ,Ray lewis was still dominant, Bart Scott had taken his game to the next level, Ed Reed was Insane at safety,Dwan Landry was athletic, solid and improving, Haloti Ngata ,Trevor Pryce, Kelly Greg and Justin Bannon were effectively a Brick Wall....all that was needed was Leodis Mckelvin, Dominique Rodgers Cromartie,Mike Jenkins or Aquib Talib,That would have made the 2009 Raven's defense possibly as good as any defense in the history of the NFL......but Ozzie Newsome, Eric Decosta, Dick Cass and George Kukunis had other ideas.They had just hired a new coach.... finally Steve Bisciotti had stopped the suffering of the Ravens Fans and their Franchise... putting an end to the wasting of 7 years of the greatest perinneal defense in the history of the NFL. Suerly 2 or 3 superbowl apperances had been squandered because of the Ravens Offensive ineptitude and the sham of Brian The PR GUY Billick.....So just like a customer who's just made a big purchase, they felt compelled to add the necessary accessories..they wanted Matt Ryan desperately but could'nt make it happen,So they set their sights on Joe Flacco,The kid with the big arm from Delaware....They ignored the fact that they could have selected Mckelvin or 1 of the other corners and still been able to select Colt Brennan [a much more polished quarterback], Kevin O connel,Brian Brohm, Dennis Dixon Chad Henne or John David Booty later in the draft for alot less money. When I saw that shot of Flacco and his family on the couch at his home I had a dreadful feeling in my gut....when he put the Ravens hat on I knew my worst fears had come true and the legacy of the greateset defense of all time had received the final nail in the coffin....it's legacy would be unrecoginized and its destiny among the leagues all time great defenses would be unfulfilled ..I knew this decision would be its death sentence.....thanks for the memories Ray,....your the Greatest Defensive Player in the history of the NFL and you deserved so much better.your greatest opponent was your own front office.... and in the end it was an opponent you just could'nt defeat.

The Steelers were more mature. They have a defensive coordinator who has won the big games and is not looking to get out of town for the next level. To be honest Ryan departure at this point is fine. He was a good coach, but so was Nolan and Lewis. Ryans leadership is number two when going against number one. All three games we gave up big plays or the lead when it counted the most.

We missed Shannon Sharpe this time around. Fresh from winning two Super Bowls in Denver he was the offensive maturity to get us to the Championship. Neither Heap, Mason, Mcgahee, Clayton is that guy.

We are almost there!! Maybe next year.

Today I find myself emtionally conflicted. I am PROUD...proud of the effort put together by this team of men this year, especially when so little was expected and it would have been easy to just "mail it in" with the offseason coaching changes and the numerous injuries early on. They are finally a TEAM, selfless in their dedication to their cause, no longer individuals. As well, I am SAD obviously, that they couldn't win it all, or at least one more game, this year, that the magical season has finally come to an end. My sadness if often at odds with FEAR, fear that we have seen the end of an era in Baltimore, that Suggs, Scott, and Lewis, along with his only other original teammate from 1996, Matt Stover, may be disbanded due to the all too familiar "business" of the game. I'd be lying if I didn't say I was ANGRY, angry that some fans are so quick to point to the flaws of the team, to assess blame. I often find the most critical fans to be the ones who have never buckled a chin strap or tried to "break the wedge" by throwing themselves recklessly towards another man. Most importantly, I am full of HOPE. Hopeful that the free agents & their teammates will realize that they have already made more money than most of us will ever see in our lifetime and consider taking "a little less" to keep the group together. If not for themselves, than for the fans and the city that offer their blind devotion. In turn, I hope the Ravens organization pays these men every penny they are worth, because they have given us all so much of themselves. Thanks Ravens!

Give us some replies from BALTIMORE CENTRAL on the Ravens' 2009 draft needs.
(My view)
PRIORITIES:
1.) CB
2.) WR
3.) T
One and two could flip flop depending on the quality of player available at those positions when we select. *Please don't wheel and deal on draft day. Go with what you picks you are given on draft day. Besides, I think this was a characteristic of the old regime.

After sleeping on it, I've come to terms with it. I am disappointed of course, but not mad. Our team gave it their all, and came up just short. Honestly (and believe me, being a huge Ravens fan, this pains me to say), the Steelers are a better team at this point (why that is could be a lengthy discussion). The best team from the AFC will represent it in the SB, which is the whole point of the playoffs. At least we had the chance to find out. All of that being said, I am really optimistic about next season (and the next several) because we finally have our franchise QB. We are obviously a top 5 team now, and should be a contender again next year. At the same time though, I am a little apprehensive about the loss of Rex Ryan and any free agents we might lose going forward. But I have faith in Ozzie and Bisciotti to keep moving this team in the right direction. I thank God every day that I am not a Lions fan.

A real bummer would be not re-signing Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs. The season was a great ride, of course it could have ended better.

Why does the media have this luv affair with sugar ray? He talks all day when his team wins.... what happens when they lose.... he runs back to the bus with no comment. No class ray. Take a lesson from the rookie and Mr. Suggs. Lose with some class and give an interview to the media and the fans that puts you where you are.

We need a veteran QB. Flacco is not it. He's had every oppotunity to shake off the training wheels and lead the team to victory in the close games. He was a risk from the begining. Nowhe is a complete failure. He actually got worse as the season progressed. Our O line was good enough to win the SB. Our RBs were good enough to win the SB, our Defense was AWESOME enough o win the SB and our special teams were good enough to win the SB. They carried Flacco in his stroller all year and when they needed him to step up and make a couple plays when he HAD to, he NEVER delivered. Flacco's success is only credited to the Defense, O line and running game. He is regretably probably the worst starting QB in the NFL. I vomit when I think what we could of done this year if we would have had a mediocre QB. Sadly we have invested a whole season in him now, he will be here for several years. Sigh!!!!!!
Also, I hope Flacco apologized to McGahee for leading him into that buzzsaw hit of Clark. A good QB would have looked out for him by throwing it low or a tad behind him, not leading him up field and into it. Nice job Flacco. Flacco is oblivious to this fact though, another reason to get another QB next year.

Even thought i'm disappointed I would like to thank the Ravens for a great season. Way to go RAVENS. I will be rooting for Arizona in the Super Bowl.

The better team won last night, and despite that the Ravens almost stole the game away. Flacco is still a rookie with less than stellar talent around them. I give kudos as always for Ozzie Newsome vision of building a team around defense with Pro-bowl and Hall of Fame talent.The consistency on that side of the ball has meant five play-off appearances since 2000. There are fans that salivate at that type of success. If we had a few more offensive play makers like Pittsburgh, we're set for a half-decade at least.

Ravens are a top 10 franchise in the NFL. When I say that, I don't mean year-to-year success so much as I mean it in an organizational success. The ownership is smart, the front office is judicious and knowledgeable, the play of the roster is usually consistent and the coaching some of the best in the league. There are franchises dying to have the type of success we had this year, and really have the success this team has had since their 2001 Super Bowl. Winning a title is tremendously hard. A Tom Brady come along once in a generation. Peyton Manning, Mr. MVP, has just one ring. If you're not happy with the Ravens as a team and franchise this season, you have issues football can't solve.

An amazing season. It was probably asking too much last night for a rookie QB to beat Pitt in the AFCC on their home field. But I think the story of this year may turn out to be that the Ravens put into place the things that make some teams contenders year after year and not just sporadically - a great head coach and a franchise QB. We will always play great D, but look at the teams that get to the playoffs virtually every year - Indy, NE, Pitt - they get great leadership and results from their franchise QBs and they have a coach that accepts no excuses for losing. You cannot win a championship without playing great defense, but if you want to get into the dance every year, QB play is the key. It's too early to say if Harbaugh and Flacco are the long-term solutions, but based on the results this year I wouldn't bet against it.

I too have slept off the "losing to the Steelers" hangover but, I cannot get past the stupid, selfish personal foul by Stone that may have cost us the game. Can't believe that more people aren't as upset about it as I am. Yes, I agree that the Steelers were the better team, but so were the Titans and yet we found a way to beat them. I think we were close to pulling off another miracle when Stone committed that foul. First down on our 40 and only needed a FG to go ahead with 6 minutes left. He needs to go......people lose their jobs every day for far smaller mistakes. It was an amazing year overall though and Harbaugh deserves a lot more credit than he's received from the league.

I think the Ravens overachieved this season. Making the playoffs and getting to the AFC Championship game was just icing on the cake. However I'm afraid next year is going ro look more like 2007 than 2008. Lewis, Scott and Suggs could all be gone as well as Rex Ryan and some of his staff. If I were Harbough I'd release Stone today and send a copy of the tape showing the "roughing the punter" penalty too, the worst thing was that, not only was the call wrong, but the ref give him the 15 yard personal foul variety.

Thank you, Ravens, and Ravens fans for making this an unforgettable season. This team exuded confidence, dedication, and tenacity. Congrats guys on a job well done!

This team came together with character reminiscent of the Colts I admired as a kid: Unitas, Berry, etc.

Now my 7 year old son knows Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs, Joe Flacco, Scott, Leonard, etc.

Harbaugh is bringing an atmosphere of class, respectability, and upstanding character to this team that will bring a championship. It may take a season or so more, but they will get there because Harbaugh is making the team play so that win or lose they can look in the mirror before they go to bed with pride as men.

"Only true happiness can come from true virtue."

What is your opinion of offering

Ray the defensive Cordinators job ?

Well I feel fine now after its been a couple but I'm still mad about a few things. There were clearly missed opportunities a few dropped passes, missed tackles, and missed sack opportunuities, which really pissed me off because the players could have hit Roethlisberger so many times but just stood there, you have to bring that SOB down! Also, McGahee did a decent job and I hope he is okay but was McClain really so bad that he couldn't get some carries? I mean he had success against the Steelers and would have helped in those shortage situations, maybe we would have converted on that 4th down had he been given the ball. Ray Rice could have been involved a little more too. I like what Cam Cameron has done but I just didn't understand those things. Also, I agree with everybody get rid of Darren Stone, the guy seriously cost us an opportunity to take the lead, he needs to be released.

That being said, this was a great season and no one really expected it at all. We should be happy that this team reached the AFC Championship and gave us so many great moments this year. There is uncertainty in the future about what players stay and whose gonna replace Ryan but I have faith in the franchise, they're well-run and they will figure it out. If the offseason goes well and the draft goes good, I see no reason why they would not be back in the mix next year. They just need a taller, physical WR and they do need some help at CB.

The Ravens had a good year, new coach and QB know one thought they would do this well. Changes are coming though, Rex and company are gone and sadly some very good LB won't be resigned due to salary cap issues. the Ravens will be expected to get back to the playoffs next year, so expectations will be high. Other teams will have the book on Harbough so it will be interesting to see how he handles that. As far as the roughing penalty goes, well we got a break with the PI call which lead to points for the Ravens. It all evens out, fact is the Steelers beat the Ravens at their on game. good luck Steelers bring the SB back to AFC north, the toughest division in football.

It was a a great season and a really pleasant surprise to have something exciting to look forward to for so many Sundays, and other days, weeks in to the playoffs. I was very disppointed when it became apparent Cam Cameron was overthinking again, and put the game on McGahee's shoulders running staright ahead, instead of using McLain and Rice,and some slants and quick outs. I knew we were doomed. If not for two PI penalties and a dropped TD by Sweed, and possibly andother by their RB, the Steelers would have absolutely destroyed us. (They didn't even capitalize on the ridiculous roughing the kicker call.) Why did Cameron use that gameplan?

If they do not get a deep threat, big WR, we will struggle to make the playoffs next year. We are not going to beat Pittsburgh for the Division, so we'll have to go the harder route. It will be an exciting season, and we'll be competitive, but we just aren't quite there yet.

The Ravens had a great season despite having a rookie QB and new head coach. The loss to the Steelers was devastating due to the fact that the Ravens were pegged as the under dogs for the mostpart. It would have been great to prove the nay sayers wrong. However, hopefully next season will be even better. Unfortunately, we lost Rex Ryan and possibly may lose some great players that are up for free agency. But, I believe that Flacco is destined for greatness! Remember, he is still wet behind the ears! Overall, I am very pleased that the Ravens made it to the playoffs.

The Ravens had a pretty good season considering they had a rookie coach and rookie QB. I would really like to see the Ravens go after a new crop of DBs during the offseason because I believe the secondary was the Raven's weakest link. Opposing QBs really exposed their weakness in the secondary but the stats don't show it because the opponents receiver's dropped a lot balls while they were wide open. The Ravens DBs were fortunate that there were a lot a dropped balls against them because these drops could have been touchdowns.

The Ravens showed they could go down field with Clayton and Mason. So even though they could use a speedy receiver, I think they should first look at bringing in good talent in the secondary.

Great year! How does everyone think we would have done this year with Colt Brennan, Brian Brohm, or John David Booty at QB? Are you serious? Fire Ozzie Newsome, I think Rob from Las Vegas deserves his job after such insightful analysis. Seriously, leave personnel decisions to those (like Ozzie) who aren't colossally ignorant like yourself.

It was truly a remarkable season. I cannot be the least bit disappointed. They made the "Final Four" despite:

1) Coming off a 5-11 season
2) A new head coach
3) Having McNair retire in the Spring
4) Having Ogden retire in the summer
5) Losing Gregg, Edwards and Boller before the season started and McAlister, Landry, Yanda, Rolle, McGahee, Rice, Williams for various long periods.
6) a rookie QB
7) various guys playing extended periods with crippling injuries

The obvious needs are a big, fast deep threat; a big fast tough corner; resigning Suggs, Leonard and Lewis; another offensive tackle or 2 and a pass-rushing inside defensive lineman.

I don't expect them to get all those holes filled in the coming year, but even a few would be great.

They also need to decide if Heap is worth keeping. To me, he was the biggest disappointment. On those rare occassions went he got open, he dropped far too many passes and it was he lack of being a fear factor that allowed double-teams of the outside receivers too often.

Stone's penalty was classless and unprofessional. It reminded me of some of the pointless penalties the Ravens had drawn in past years.

The Ravens did not go there this season, which points to the coaches, the front office and some very good things in future.

Wire to wire, this season was great, no regrets and we come back next year stronger and smarter.

We need a big, fast WR though, someone who is the equal of Flacco's arm. OK Ozzie, do your magic.

Sure I would have loved to see the Ravens go all the way but it wasn't to be. I am still extremely proud that they came so far and played like the true pros they are. In my book, a fan is a fan no matter the outcome, so I say, GO RAVENS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

a great year lots of excitement and promise ,but to be that close and a personal foul maybe cost us a chance at the superbowl is tough to take . i think if we start at the 40 and drive to kick a lonf fieldgoal that wouldve been game ,like tenn.. taking flacco back to the ten changed all the play calling and that was that . i dont think pittsburgh wouldve scored again ,and walker also making that pick couldve changed things .. the few weaknesses we have are obvious, we need a deep threat and corner ,and hopefully they will sign lewis and suggs and brown . we will lose scott and leonhard will got to the jets with ryan nobdy even saw to the slighest how good leonard would be come or they wouldve given him at least a two year contract ,but all in all a great season with more excitment in one game then the orioles will give in a year .

What a great season to be a Ravens Fan. I live in Northern VA and have to listen to all the deadskins nonsense which makes me so thankful I root for the Ravens!!! For all the posters who complain about flacco, front office, etc. I think you need to put down your pipe and start rooting for the Redskins! The Ravens are very successful franchise and baltimore should be happy to have it. Reading some of the posts here makes me think maybe IRSAY was right?

I was at the game sunday and I was just happy that the Ravens made a game of it, THEY SHOULD HAVE BEEN BLOWN OUT!. Having said that without the personal foul in the 4th quarter I believe we we win. It was setting up perfectly for flacco to lead a time consuming drive for us to to win, but when he got in a hole and had to make a play he was picked by the second best safety in the NFL.

I agree, Ray lewis should become player and co-d coordinator. A title that no one in the league can offer and what a way to feed is ego. If you don't like Ray and what's he's done for the ravens I'm not sure how can call yourself a ravens fan.

Looking forward to next year but very nervous to see if we can hold it all together and start a dynasty with #5 driving the ship.

I was telling some Steeler fans today that we have a great 10 years or so to look forward to, with strong armed QBs, young coaches, and a bitter rivalry that I believe will swing year to year to determine the AFC North Champion. It's a great time to be a Ravens fan, and will be for the next decade.

Also, all of you that are upset with Flacco's performance this year HAVE to be new to the NFL. Let me explain something...rookie QBs usually don't win. They tend to cause their team to LOSE by turning the ball over. Did you hear how everyone said after the Championship game that Flacco "finally played like a rookie"? That's how rookies usually play. Flacco did not do that in most of the games this year.

He played the equivalent of 2 college seasons. He played 18 games in a row...as a rookie...and had them in contention for a Super Bowl with 5 minutes left in the 4th quarter! You people cannot really be NFL fans, right?

Flacco is going to be even better next year. Welcome to the NFL.

This year's major success was not getting to the championship game which was great but only a side affect of the big picture. Ravens ownership,management, and coaching took a badly rocking ship and steadied it, and now has it pointed in the right direction. That's a hugh accomplishment in 1 year. So we are going to lose some players, coaches, and front office personal. That's ok, with Bisciotti, Ozzie, and coach Harbaugh we will be fine. We will replace those who leave with personal as good or better. It was very exciting going to the championship game this year, but next year we really may belong in that game. We are were good this year. But the future is bright and we will get far better.

This year in Raven history will be for Joe Flacco. He was a great rookie and I am glad the Ravens made the AFC Championship. Too bad they are not heading to Tampa to play against Arizona. However I thank the Raven defense as well especially Ed Reed and Ray Lewis.

Well let's see, the ravens have lost 1 co-ordinator, 1 coach,and may lose another coach. 3 of their LB corp(ses) are unrestricted FA and they may NOT be able to sign them all! This is starting to look like the downfall of the ravens. They have been known for having a great D for a while now, and then they lose their #1 AND #2 Defensive coaches, Can we say Balmer Browns! I hope not! The ravens were/are our only competition in the North (not very much though!) Upcoming season slogan: Come Meet Your New Baltimore........LIONS!, HAHA 0-16 BABY

do you guys think you'll be able to sign your UFA's in the off season

Two plays; Darren Stone's stupidity and the BS "roughing the kicker" cost us a chance to go to the Super bowl. This team overcame everything else last Sunday.

Just to repeat what has probably been said ad nauseum - a great season, totally unexpected, now have a great base to work from (players AND coaches); considering the injuries, inexperience, lack of a bye, short week for 2nd playoff game, to have come within 5 min of going to the SB shows the turn-around of this organization. Mr. Squealer4ever and the Pitts fans would love to believe that the Ravens are a flash in the pan. However, in the pit of their stomachs (the same place that was churning like mad when Flacco completed the pass to Heap with about 5:30 min left) they know this has only just begun. Losing some of our UFA's and coaches won't disrupt the solid base that has been put in place. Ravens at less than full-strength took the steelers' best shot and almost pulled it out. Enjoy yourself now Squealer4ever because your smiles will be short-lived.

I am pleased how the ravens season went . hats off to coach harbaugh and staff and players. it was something way the other players came through,when the starters went down to injury.my favorite players are ed reed, ray lewis, joe flacco.next year will be ravens super bowl. will be rooting for the arizona cardinals to win the super bowl.

i am very happy with the ravens who knows maybe they will sign boldin this offseason apariently hes not happy in arizona. but anyways they need to resign ray lewis and suggs i would like them to keep scott too. i also think we need a solid corner in the draft because injuries finally cought up to us in the secondary against the steelers. i am pretty exited for the ravens to play pittsburgh next year i want some revenge. hopefully we build a stronger team next year to go all the way . also flacco is a stud and there is only good things to come

To stillerz4ever - did you ever hear of Marvin Lewis and Mike Nolan? They were once Ravens' defensive coordinators that left to become head coaches elsewhere. Remember how that worked out for them? Is it possible there is a little something more to this Ravens D than the DCs? You sound awfully interested in the Ravens for someone that should be enjoying the SB hype. Maybe a little bit of worry that the Ravens appear to have the pieces in place to be perennial contenders?

I'll just get right to it. For all of you who think that Flacco carried the Ravens this season, you are wrong. Here is a guy that never played (to my knowledge) against a major college team like Maryland, Louisville, Texas, Oklahoma and Florida State to name a few. If it wasn't for the defense, running backs and offensive line, we would not have the winning season that we had. In fact, if we had (to me) any other half way decent QB, we still would have a winning season. Flacco does not know when to throw the ball away. If it was not for our own receivers knocking the ball out of the defenders hand(s), Flacco would have had more interceptions this past season. He runs to the same side and he does not know when to run when no one is open. I know that running the ball is not his job but at times he needs to know when to run. All of these things makes up a good QB, For this up coming season, Flacco and Smith should alternate games up until the 8th game. Who ever performs the best should finish the remainder of the season as the QB. Remember, Troy Smith would have been the starting QB if not for his illness. This is just my opinion and you have to take the good criticism with the bad.

Thanks Ravens for a winning season all the best in 2009! Now get rid of those ugly black bycycle pants you wear in away games and get some professionbal pants with stripes on them. Stop lookind like Arena football players and start looking like professional NFL players.

Flacco studying game film of the Pittsburgh loss instead of clearing out his locker is again another victory for the system.

I love Ray Lewis, but I don't buy this its between him and God line. Ray was part of a great system, a system that is turning out many star players and coaches.

Ray said "its business." A smart person would say its always been about business, so let him make up his mind.

Three different QB's have represented Pittsburgh in the SB over time and the Ravens will win with more than one MLB. He might not be necessary with Flacco rolling film eight months before the 2009 season.

Its Ed Reeds time to take over the D. Ray goes about his business with God and then its time for ED REED to define his defense. Spend the money on a big time receiver instead of Ray.

I have a funny feeling that if Ray goes elsewhere, like Dallas, that the high point will be the contract signing and not much else. Sorry Ray, I think that with money in the bank, no Ravens system, no Nagata, Bannon, Price protecting you-not much motivation beyond the money-after all "Its just business."-Right? Isn't that it?

Moveover jersey 52, lets dominate the stands with 5 and 20!!

The Super Bowl was a heartbreaking reminder of the Ravens loss in Week 15. Even Tomlin compared the two games twice yesterday in his postgame press conference. You cant play 58 minutes of great, tough football against the Steelers, take the lead, and then let them go 80 yards in less than 2 minutes for the winning TD by playing so far off the ball (I call it Billick ball) so that Ben can run his 15 yard curls and slants right down the field. You play that kind of silly 2 min prevent defense, after hustling hard after him for the whole game, and you deserve to lose. The Ravens deserved to lose on Dec 14, notwithstanding the bad endzone call, and the Cardinals deserved to lose yesterday. Play those guys for 60 minutes, not 58, and both would have won.

I enjoyed this past season, but there's one unanswered question in my mind? Will Harbaugh give Troy Smith a honest chance durring the upcoming season? I think Joe Cool has exceeded everybodies expectations, because he was given the opportunity to show what he has. Give Troy Smith the same options or let him FLY the Nest and land a job elsewhere.
Who is Wheelwright?

THE BALTIMORE RAVENS HAVE GOT THE SHORT END OF THE STICK SO MANY TIMES OVER THE YEARS,,,,LOOSING RAY LEWIS ,,,,,,BART SCOTT,,,,T SIZZLE WOULD BE ANOTHER STAB IN THE RAVENS BACK ,,,,THESE MEN HAVE PLAYED THEIR HEARTS OUT FOR THIS CITY , MY FAMILY PRAY EVERYDAY THE RAVEN GODS LOOK DOWN AND HELP BRING OUR GRID IRON GIANTS BACK INTO THE NEST

We better sign Ray or else. It should never have gotten to this point, we should have given him an extension last year, so now it's time to pay up and put this to bed. The Ravens without Ray Lewis are the Browns. I'm not trying to be funny, but if I don't see 52 out there next season i'll be devastated.

Hey folks,mabye im geographically the most distant fan in this forum.
But that didnt hold me off to watch all the ravens games this season even im 6 hours ahead , so i had to watch some games in the night. ( my boss hates the ravens now *lol*).
I didnt thought that our guys would it make this far this season, tough the schedule worked in favour for us.
Considering roster management , I would keep Lewis, even he is old but we all know what he brings to our team and Suggs.
I am not so impressed with Scott , so I would let him go. We have options at LB , look at Gooden and especially McClain( yes the other guy).
I would let Johnson, who is too slow for an OLB, play in the middle together with Lewis and bring McClain to complement the LB corps.
I would look for an corner in free agency ( asmouga together with reed combined with our run D, would make us unstoppable next season ) and try to draft a Tackle , maybe more important than a wr to protect flacco better this season.

Hey Ravens! Get rid of those away black pants that make you look unprofessional. No more all black uniforms either. Lets update the uniforms to look more professional and not unprofessional. Lets represent Baltimore in a professional way. You have to look good to win in the NFL.

I believe Ray will be back. Bisciotti knows that we are not that far away from making a serious run at the Bowl. I believe Scott is gone and they will also sign Suggs. The tricky part will be what to do with Jason Brown. He had an awesome year. They will have to put the tag on someone and I believe it may be Brown. Hopefully they can get something worked out with him next year. As far as having to look good to win in the NFL, that's a stretch. Uniforms are uniforms. You should be playing for the name on the front, not the name on the back!!!!!

Jay:
Why do you think we need new uniforms? I love the uniforms the way they are! And about having to look good to win, that's just totally wrong. I mean, look at the Steelers. They walk out onto the field looking like giant bumblebees, and they won the Super Bowl! And FYI, I LOVE the black pants. They look awesome!

I have posted comments before, and yes, I am a Big Steeler Fan, but I will once again congradulate your Ravin team for a great year. I beleive the next couple of years will be a seesaw battle between the Ravins and the Steelers, our team has been playing well together, and your team is getting better by the week. Give Flacco a break, he was just a rookie, and will only get better. I hope your team keeps Lewis, it would be a sad day for the Ravin Fans to see him in a Dallas uniforn, plus as some of your fans had suggested, clean house on some other players, and I will not mention names, don't want to start any trouble with your fans. To the Steeler Haters out there, Football is a contact sport, and at any time a player can be injured from a hit, tackle, block or even a penalty flag, so it does not mean it was intentional, they are doing their job and it is part of the game. I have seen some of the hits your defense players have made, and not to many people say they were headhunting. Till next season, good luck, have a happy off season, and be safe.

I think all Raven fans should be very happy with last season. I had a ball watching them. I no longer live in the Baltimore area, but I will find the game televised somewhere as I always have; win or lose. Personaly, I think we will be very lucky to have as good a season next year. I think there will be too many holes once we are finished releasing veterans. McCalister is gone and I suspect he will be followed by Heap, Rolle, Macgahee and maybe Bart Scott or Ray Lewis. We will have too many priorities to fill.
#1 shut down corner that can tackle
#2 teach Walker to tackle because his coverage skills are good
#3 a wide-out that is a real threat
#4 a Trevor Price replacement
#5 another offensive tackle to allow Allen to be a back-up
#6 a running back (w/speed) to go along with Price; McClain should be Blocking Back but get a few carries each game
#7 hopefully a tight end coming back from IR can do the job
#8 a back up QB, Smith hasn't done anything wrong but he is still 5' 10" - take a late round pick to generate competition
#9 Many people think Lewis is #1. He is a great player but I think we can afford to lose him if we can't sign him to a reasonable agreement.
#10 Suggs and Scott are good but we have some good young talent as well. If we can sign Suggs, release Scott.

It was sad news that raven lost that game but it's a sport and everything happens here.I think they will bounce back from their defeat and come as winner for next season.