Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens: A Team of Triumph and Turmoil

Imagine a team that has not only etched its name in the annals of NFL history but also captured two Super Bowl titles, making it one of the most successful franchises since their inception. The Baltimore Ravens, established in 1996 after Art Modell relocated the Cleveland Browns franchise to Baltimore, have been a beacon of hope and pride for Maryland fans. But how did this team come into existence? And what makes them so special?

The Birth of an Icon: The Relocation Saga

Back in 1996, the NFL faced a dilemma when it came to relocating teams. St. Louis was chosen first for a new franchise, but Baltimore’s bid with a $200 million stadium and financial package seemed too good to pass up. However, Commissioner Paul Tagliabue’s influence on the decision was questioned, leading to Baltimore being passed over in favor of Jacksonville. This move fueled rumors that Tagliabue was steering interest away from Baltimore.

After being overlooked, Peter Angelos gathered new investors and bid on teams whose owners were interested in relocating. The Rams were eventually awarded to St. Louis instead, fueling more rumors about the commissioner’s influence. In response, Baltimore turned its attention to obtaining the Cleveland Browns, who were financially struggling and at odds with the city of Cleveland over their stadium.

After a settlement was reached, Modell announced his intention to relocate the team to Baltimore in 1996, sparking controversy but ultimately leading to the formation of the Ravens. The home stadium for the Ravens was Memorial Stadium in Baltimore’s early years before moving to M&T Bank Stadium in 1998.

From Inception to Glory: A Timeline of Success

The Ravens’ journey from inception to glory is a tale of triumph and heartache. Their first season saw them drafted Jonathan Ogden and Ray Lewis, who would go on to become two of the most iconic players in NFL history. They won their opening game but finished the season 4–12. In 1997, they started 3–1 but finished 69–1.

Quarterback Vinny Testaverde left before the 1998 season, which saw a new stadium open. The team was managed by head coach Ted Marchibroda until he was replaced by Brian Billick in 1999. In the deal, Bisciotti had an option to purchase the remaining 51% for $325 million in 2004 from Art Modell.

On April 9, 2004, the NFL approved Steve Bisciotti’s purchase of the majority stake in the club. The Ravens’ early years were marked by ups and downs, but they started well in 2000 with a 5–1 record before struggling mid-season. They regrouped and won their last seven games to finish 12–4.

The team dominated the divisional playoff game against Tennessee, led by Ray Lewis, who was named Defensive Player of the Year. They then defeated the Oakland Raiders in the AFC Championship before beating the New York Giants in Super Bowl XXXV. This victory marked their first Super Bowl title and cemented their place as a powerhouse in the NFL.

Champions and Contenders: A Legacy of Success

The Ravens’ success continued into subsequent seasons, with notable achievements such as winning eleven games in 2008 under Harbaugh’s leadership. They advanced to the AFC Championship Game but lost to Pittsburgh 23-14.

In 2012, the Ravens won their second Super Bowl title after defeating the 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII. However, the team faced challenges in later seasons, including Ray Rice’s domestic violence incident and subsequent suspension from the NFL. Despite these setbacks, Lamar Jackson led the Ravens to a franchise-best 14–2 record in 2018, earning him AP NFL MVP.

The 2019 season saw the Ravens finish with a 3,296 rushing yards, the most rushing yards by any team in NFL history during a season. They became the first team in NFL history to average at least 200 passing yards and 200 rushing yards per game in the same season.

However, their run of success was cut short when they lost to the Tennessee Titans in the Divisional Round of the playoffs, 28–12. Despite this setback, the Ravens’ legacy as a powerhouse team remains unchallenged.

The Ravens’ Rivalries: A Tale of Two Cities

The Baltimore Ravens have faced fierce rivalries over the years, particularly with the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns. The rivalry with the Bengals began when Marvin Lewis was hired as the head coach of the Bengals. The Ravens lead the all-time series 32–27 as of the 2024 season.

The Browns–Ravens rivalry has been largely one-sided, with the Ravens leading 37–15 as of the end of the 2024 season. The two teams have not met in the playoffs since their inception.

Uniforms and Traditions: A Symbol of Pride

The Baltimore Ravens’ uniform design has remained unchanged since 1996, with Art Modell introducing the team’s colors inspired by the Northwestern Wildcats’ dream season. Helmets are black with purple stripes, and players wear purple jerseys at home and white jerseys on the road.

It was believed John Harbaugh disliked the ‘blackout’ look for the Baltimore Ravens but they wore black jerseys and pants twice a season since 2010. The team has worn all-black uniforms at least twice a season, once in 2011-2013, 2015, 2017 and both times in 2014 and 2016.

The Ravens’ first-round draft picks include Jonathan Ogden, Ray Lewis, and Lamar Jackson. The team has had several notable statistics, including career leaders in games played by Sam Koch, passing yards by Joe Flacco, and points scored by Justin Tucker.

Conclusion: A Team of Triumph and Turmoil

The Baltimore Ravens have been a beacon of hope for Maryland fans since their inception. From the controversial relocation saga to their two Super Bowl titles, the team has faced its share of challenges but has always risen to the occasion. The legacy of success, coupled with the rich history and traditions, makes the Baltimore Ravens one of the most beloved franchises in the NFL.

Condensed Infos to Baltimore Ravens