The backstory The Patriots have looked like three different teams this season. They struggled in September and their offense limped to the finish line. In the two months in-between, they were easily the most dominant team in the AFC, crushing playoff teams like the Bengals, Broncos, Colts, and Lions by at least 20 points each. An offense built on short passing and long drives somehow put up 40 points five times. At their best, no one could touch the Patriots in Foxborough. But we havent seen a complete game out of New England since Thanksgiving. Thats a serious concern. The Ravens have won playoff games in Foxborough before, but these are two dramatically different teams than two years ago. Baltimores defense actually looks much better and more physical than they did when they won the title. The defensive line can rush the passer and stuff the run well. The Ravens offense had a Week 16 meltdown and needed help to get into the playoffs, but that doesnt matter now. They have looked as complete and balanced as any team for most of the season. Theres a reason the Ravens are fifth in Football Outsiders metrics for the season; they dont have many weaknesses.
Posted on: Sat, 10 Jan 2015 21:01:50 +0000
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