The 30-17 Ravens win over the Raiders could prove to be season-altering. It was a victory the Ravens needed in the worst way. It was a victory Joe Flacco admitted postgame was bigger than normal that does wonders for the mentality and confidence of the now 3-and-2 Ravens. John Harbaugh broke it down on Monday.
“It’s hard to have confidence if you’re not doing anything, to generate confidence,” said the Ravens head coach. “It’s one thing to believe, and you have to believe a lot of times in the unseen, that’s what faith is. But, in terms of confidence in athletic ability there’s something to going out there and doing it.”
It was a complete team win. The big play ability of the offense finally showed up and the offensive line kept Flacco clean. The unit didn’t allow a single sack.
“Very happy with the offensive line play. They played very well,” said Harbaugh. “They stepped up. I thought we had a very good pass protection plan.”
The opportunistic defense pounced. Jimmy Smith posted his second career touchdown with a 47 yard fumble recovery for a score. Harbaugh had glowing remarks about the cornerback.
“He’s a top-notch corner. I think he’s one of the best corners in football. I’m a big Jimmy Smith fan. I think Jimmy Smith will prove in the next couple years to be maybe the best (in the league).”
It wouldn’t be a 2017 Ravens game without another injury to a key member of the team. Running back Terrance West was among those hurt yesterday. He injured his calf on the first drive of the contest. Harbaugh didn’t want to talk about West’s ailments but he did refer to an NFL Network report that said West is expected to miss some time.
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