2011 NFL Team Preview
Baltimore Ravens

2010 Record: 12-4
2010 Record ATS (Against the Spread): 7-7-2

Outlook:
Strengths: Baltimore's defense, as in most years, is clearly it's most valuable asset. They allowed the third least amount of points in the NFL last season.  The Ravens gave up only a mere five rushing TD's the entire season!  They also forced 19 interceptions.  Baltimore's powerhouse defense has been the strength of the team for more than a decade and most of that credit goes to LB Ray Lewis. He brings both his athletic ability to the team as well as his fiery attitude.

Weaknesses:
Rushing offense has been a weak aspect of the offense. They averaged under 4 yards per rushing play from scrimmage.  Long pass play ability has also been poor. They were able to really gain yards on screen plays and swing passes but this year they will need to expand the playbook a bit and takes more shots down field. This will open up the run game of course. Converting 3rd downs is key for them to stay successful this year as well. Last year they failed to convert as many third downs as they would and should have. This may be in part due to the fact that WR Anquan Bolden was out the second half of the year.

Betting Forecast:
We expect the Ravens to be favored a great deal this year and this may play havoc on bettors bankrolls.  We don't think they will duplicate the success they had last year and may fall to a 10-6 or even a 9-7 SU regular season record.  They will drop multiple games in which they are favored. So look to play against the Ravens especially when they are laying large points.  Over/Unders are always a tough bet when the Ravens are involved because of their stingy defense. But look for the 'over' to happen more than the 'under' because of an aging defense and more "shoot out" type games.

Key matchups:
Week 1: vs. Pittsburgh
Week 14: vs. Indianapolis