Much like a group of wolves are called a pack, a group of ravens is called an unkindness. And I couldn't think of anything more fitting for the Baltimore Ravens. As a UK based fan I fell in love with the AFC North because of the defensive clashes. The hard nosed Baltimore defence that would win games by beating the opponents in to submission. And then a complementary running attack that would pound the ball back down their throats.
The unkindness of a gritty team that wins in the trenches and up front. That's what I think of when I say "Play like a raven". And that is why my blog is called The Unkindness.
What is the aim?
I want to increase my knowledge of the game and challenge myself to understand more. To increase my understanding of formations, tactics and schemes. I plan to look at a particular formation, position or game to understand some of the finer points of football. What formation do the Ravens deploy when in nickel? What is a 3-4 defence and how do the Ravens use this? What personnel packages were used? And how does this effect the ravens draft plans?
As you can see from the above I am mainly looking at defence. This is because it is my personal preference. I like to see Ray Lewis smash up a run play, Ed Reed intercept a deep ball or Terrell Suggs destroy a screen due to play recognition.. It is also the side of the ball I feel most comfortable with at the moment. As my confidence and blog grows I will also address the offensive side of the ball.
So while at the moment I don't know a cover 2 beater from a hi-lo read. I couldn't tell you without some effort whether its a zone or man defence. But over time by looking and analysing more I plan to be able to do this and more. And therefore increase my understanding to hopefully lead to greater appreciation for the game of football.