The Ravens Are Now a Legitimate Super Bowl Threat for Six Reasons
The Baltimore Ravens have long been considered a competitive team in the NFL, but the 2023 season has seen them take significant strides toward becoming a true Super Bowl contender. With a combination of an elite defense, an explosive offense, and strong leadership from key players, the Ravens have positioned themselves as one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. Below are six critical reasons why the Ravens are now a legitimate Super Bowl threat.
1. Lamar Jackson’s Evolution as a Quarterback
Lamar Jackson’s development as a quarterback is arguably the most significant factor in the Ravens’ Super Bowl aspirations. Jackson, the 2019 NFL MVP, has always been known for his unique athleticism and dual-threat capability, but this year, he has taken his game to a new level as a passer.
In the past, critics questioned Jackson’s ability to thrive in a traditional passing offense. He was often forced to rely on his legs and improvisational skills to carry the team. However, under the guidance of offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Jackson has refined his mechanics and demonstrated impressive growth as a pocket passer. His improved accuracy, decision-making, and ability to read defenses have allowed him to be more consistent through the air.
As of the 2023 season, Jackson’s passing stats have significantly improved. He’s making quicker and more confident decisions, which has allowed him to sustain long drives and keep opposing defenses on their heels. Moreover, Jackson’s running ability remains elite, making him a constant threat to break open big plays with his legs. This dual-threat dynamic makes the Ravens’ offense difficult to stop and keeps opposing defenses guessing.
If Jackson continues to play at this high level, he’ll be one of the biggest reasons why the Ravens can make a deep playoff run and potentially secure their second Super Bowl championship.
2. The Ravens’ Elite Defense
While Lamar Jackson’s development has garnered much of the attention, the Ravens’ defense is arguably the most consistent and dominant unit on the roster. Baltimore has long been known for its hard-hitting, opportunistic defense, and in 2023, they’ve only reinforced their reputation as one of the league’s top defensive squads.
The Ravens’ defense is led by a stellar secondary, which includes standout players such as cornerback Marlon Humphrey and safety Kyle Hamilton. These players, along with others in the secondary, have made it difficult for opposing quarterbacks to find success in the air. Baltimore’s secondary ranks among the best in the league in pass defense, thanks in large part to their ability to force turnovers and disrupt passing lanes.
Up front, the Ravens have one of the best defensive lines in the NFL, with standout pass rushers like Odafe Oweh and Justin Madubuike. These players have been relentless in applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks, making it difficult for offenses to establish a rhythm. Additionally, the Ravens’ linebacking corps is as formidable as ever, with Roquan Smith leading the charge as one of the most complete inside linebackers in the NFL.
What makes the Ravens’ defense truly dangerous is its ability to get off the field in critical situations. They rank highly in third-down defense, red-zone defense, and turnover differential, all key components for postseason success. The ability to stifle opposing offenses in high-leverage moments could be the difference-maker in tight playoff games and, ultimately, a Super Bowl run.
3. The Emergence of a Balanced Offensive Attack
In years past, the Ravens’ offense was often seen as one-dimensional, relying heavily on Lamar Jackson’s legs and the ground game to move the ball. However, in 2023, the Ravens have developed a more balanced offensive attack that can threaten defenses in multiple ways.
One of the key changes has been the addition of wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and rookie Zay Flowers. These playmakers provide Jackson with more dynamic options in the passing game. Beckham, despite his injury history, has the ability to stretch the field and make big plays in clutch moments. Flowers, a first-round pick, has quickly become one of the most promising young receivers in the NFL, showing an ability to create separation and make tough catches. The depth at the wide receiver position, including veteran Devin Duvernay and the emergence of tight end Mark Andrews as a primary target, gives Jackson a variety of weapons to choose from.
In the backfield, running backs J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards provide a solid ground game that can wear down opposing defenses. With Jackson’s ability to read defenses and create plays with his legs, the Ravens’ rushing attack remains one of the most potent in the league. This balance between the run and pass makes the Ravens’ offense unpredictable and difficult to defend against, especially as the team heads into the postseason.
4. Coaching Stability and Smart Leadership
Coaching stability is often an underrated factor in the NFL, but it plays a critical role in team success. In 2023, the Ravens are benefiting from the steady leadership of head coach John Harbaugh. Harbaugh, now in his 16th season as the head coach of the Ravens, has built a culture of resilience and accountability that permeates throughout the organization.
Harbaugh has been able to adapt his coaching style to fit the evolving roster, particularly by embracing a more modern offensive approach under the guidance of Todd Monken. Monken, who replaced Greg Roman as offensive coordinator, has brought a fresh perspective to the Ravens’ offense. His play-calling has been instrumental in Jackson’s development as a passer, and his ability to devise game plans that take advantage of Baltimore’s strengths has been impressive.
In addition to Harbaugh and Monken, the leadership of key veterans such as Justin Tucker (one of the league’s most reliable kickers) and Patrick Ricard (a versatile fullback) helps set the tone for the team. With this blend of strong leadership at both the coaching and player levels, the Ravens are well-positioned to handle the pressure of high-stakes playoff games.
5. Playoff Experience and Postseason Pedigree
The Ravens’ postseason pedigree is another factor that cannot be overlooked. Baltimore has been one of the most successful franchises in the NFL since the early 2000s, with multiple playoff appearances and two Super Bowl championships to their name (in 2000 and 2012). Even though the team hasn’t won a Super Bowl in over a decade, the experience of playing in the postseason is invaluable when it comes to handling the high-pressure moments that define playoff football.
Lamar Jackson, while still young, has had several playoff appearances under his belt and has experienced both the highs and lows of postseason football. His ability to perform in big games will be crucial as the Ravens march toward the playoffs. The Ravens also have several players with Super Bowl rings, including tight end Mark Andrews, linebacker Patrick Queen, and defensive lineman Calais Campbell. These veterans bring a wealth of knowledge to the team, and their experience can be the difference in close playoff games.
In addition to veteran leadership, the Ravens have shown a remarkable ability to win tough games on the road in hostile environments, a trait that will serve them well if they make a deep postseason run. The combination of talent, experience, and leadership makes the Ravens a dangerous team come January.
6. Special Teams and Depth
Special teams are often the forgotten phase of the game, but for the Ravens, it has been a consistent strength. The team has one of the best kickers in NFL history in Justin Tucker, whose leg is virtually automatic from long distances. Tucker’s consistency gives the Ravens a reliable option to secure points in tight games, especially in playoff matchups where field position and clutch kicks often determine the outcome.
Moreover, the Ravens boast a strong and deep roster. They have a well-rounded team with quality depth at nearly every position. Whether it’s a backup running back stepping in when needed, a reserve cornerback making a critical play, or a backup linebacker filling in for an injured starter, the Ravens have proven that their depth can be a difference-maker in the postseason.
With their well-balanced roster, excellent special teams play, and overall depth, the Ravens are built to withstand the rigors of the postseason, where injuries and fatigue often play a significant role.
