Gary Kubiak Breathes New Life Into Offense, Makes Ravens A Contender
By Brett Foote
Aug 7, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak looks on during the game against the San Francisco 49ers at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Welcome to lunchtime links, where we round up all the latest Ravens news from around the web for your convenient consumption. Today we have all the day after fallout from the Raven’s victory over the 49ers. After such a decisive victory, it’s only right we take the time to gloat. Even if it is only the preseason.
The new Gary Kubiak led offense didn’t waste any time, marching 80 yards up the field in a 10 play opening drive that ended in a touchdown by Bernard Pierce. The team rushed for 237 yards on 48 carries for an excellent 4.9 yard per carry average. Joe Flacco had four completions to four different receivers. All of this against an excellent 49ers starting defense. As Ty Schalter points out, the new offense is going to make the Ravens a serious contender this season.
Ray Rice was part of the action and looked extremely quick in an out of his cuts. He also received a standing ovation from fans when he came out onto the field, many of whom were donning his jersey. After the game, Rice admitted that he savored the moment and that it was therapeutic for him to be back on the field, even if it is only the preseason. Despite many pointing out that Bernard Pierce has outplayed him in camp, Rice was the best looking back on the field last night. Well, maybe outside of Lorenzo Taliaferro.
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The other good news is that the Ravens emerged with no major injuries following the game. There were a few scares, of course. Tyrod Taylor hurt a finger, Kyle Juszczyk had a minor neck scare, Anthony Levine banged his finger, and Morgan Cox twisted his ankle a bit. After the game, John Harbaugh told reporters that none were serious. For a team that has been plagued by injuries through camp, we couldn’t ask for a better result.
Of all the position battles taking place, one that appears to be getting a bit clearer is at third cornerback. Asa Jackson is making a big case for himself with his solid play in practice, and he showed up last night with an interception and a drawn offensive pass interference call. Meanwhile, Chykie Brown continued to hurt his case for the spot by picking up two penalties.
What are your thoughts about last night’s game?