OVER THE SHOULDER

Over the Shoulder is not just the title and not just the Willie Mays way Ed Reed changed the Playoff Game in Mia Sunday, it’s a metaphor for this Ravens team. Yes, it was unreal how Ed caught that ball going the wrong way, turned up field left, then back right and down the sidelines to the endzone for yet another pick 6. The game would never be the same. The Ravens took the lead and did so for good. Ed added yet another spectacular interception; in the RedZone I might add, coming clear out of the blue jumping the route. Add a fumble recovery and two other interceptions and the Ravens D turned over the Dolphins 5 times. That’s how it was won on paper, but remember “Over The Shoulder” should be the story. The team has all others looking over their shoulders, scared about the pass rush, scared of the run stoppers, scared of throwing the deep ball, scared to open up at the risk of turnovers a plenty. The reverse, however, is true for the Ravens . Each player can look over their shoulder and know a teammate has their back. This is a true team like I’ve written before and it’s so clear it smacks you in the face. The Pass rush is the reason the DBs can sit back and pick off QBs. DBs picking off QBs is the reason the Pass Rush is so strong. The Linebackers stop the run with the best of them because they get a good push from the D-line. But the D-line’s huge push is predicated on them knowing they have backers behind them making stops. The DB’s can take risks, jump routes and play possum knowing they have the push upfront. Each player knows they DON’T have to look over their shoulders, except to pat one another on the butt. This team is nasty, fast and more importantly smart. It’s coached well, has poise and will never let itself out of a game. I’m not saying the Ravens are a lock for Tampa but I am saying what I’ve been screaming all season. THIS TEAM HAS A SHOT and that’s all you can ask.

Congrats on the 1st playoff win since 2001 and to do it off a 5-11 season speaks to the entire franchise. See you in Nashville .

Stats to chew on: Ed Reed has 5 games, just this season, with 2 interceptions. 5 interceptions in 3 playoff games. 11 interceptions this season. 44 interceptions in his career along with12 TD. He’s a Safety and maybe the best ever.

Glenn Younes
Sirius XM Satellite Radio