The History of the Baltimore Ravens

by Jesse M. Earl on April 15, 2023

HE HISTORY OF THE BALTIMORE RAVENS

The Baltimore Ravens are a professional American football team based in Baltimore, Maryland. The group was founded in 1996 after the Cleveland Browns moved to Baltimore and became the Ravens. Since their inception, the Ravens have been a successful franchise, winning two Super Bowls and multiple division championships. In this article, we will explore the history of the Baltimore Ravens, from their beginnings in Cleveland to their current success in the NFL. 

The Early Years

The Baltimore Ravens are a professional American football team that competes in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the AFC North division. The franchise was established in 1996 and had a relatively short history compared to some of the league's other storied teams. However, the team has made its mark on the NFL with several notable accomplishments, including two Super Bowl championships. This article will explore the early years of the Baltimore Ravens franchise, including their founding, move to Baltimore, and first season.


Founding of the Ravens:

The Baltimore Ravens franchise was founded in 1996 when Art Modell, owner of the Cleveland Browns, announced that he was relocating the team to Baltimore. The move was controversial, as Cleveland fans were disappointed to see their beloved Browns leave the city. However, Baltimore was eager to welcome an NFL team back to the town after the Baltimore Colts had left for Indianapolis in 1984.

Move to Baltimore:

After Modell announced his intention to move the team to Baltimore, he faced legal challenges from the city of Cleveland and the NFL. Eventually, Modell settled with the NFL, allowing him to move the team to Baltimore while leaving the Browns' name, colors, and records in Cleveland. The Ravens were named after the poem "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe, who lived in Baltimore for part of his life.

First Season

The Ravens' first season in Baltimore was a challenging one. The team finished with a 4-12 and struggled to establish its identity on the field. Despite this, there were some bright spots for the franchise. One of these was the play of linebacker Ray Lewis, who was drafted in the first round of the 1996 NFL Draft. Lewis quickly established himself as one of the league's best defenders and would have a legendary career with the Ravens.

Another key player for the Ravens in their early years was quarterback Vinny Testaverde. Testaverde had a solid season in 1996, throwing for 4,177 yards and 33 touchdowns. However, the team's offense struggled, finishing 26th in the league in scoring.


Off the field, the Ravens successfully built a fan base in Baltimore. The team played its home games at Memorial Stadium in its first season, and the stadium was consistently filled with enthusiastic fans. The team's success in building a solid fan base helped to establish the Ravens as an essential part of Baltimore's sports culture.


In conclusion, the early years of the Baltimore Ravens franchise were marked by controversy, challenges, and some bright spots on the field. Despite a difficult first season, the team built a strong foundation in Baltimore and established itself as a significant player in the NFL. The emergence of players like Ray Lewis and Vinny Testaverde helped to give the franchise a sense of identity. In contrast, the team's success in building a fan base helped to establish it as an essential part of Baltimore's sports culture.

Sources:



Super Bowl XXXV Champions:

The Baltimore Ravens are one of the more recent NFL franchises established in 1996. However, the team has quickly become one of the league's most successful, winning two Super Bowl championships in its short history. This article will explore the Ravens' championship season in 2000, culminating in their victory in Super Bowl XXXV.

The Dominant Defense:

The 2000 Baltimore Ravens were a team built around their defense. Led by legendary linebacker Ray Lewis, the Ravens defense was dominant throughout the season. The team finished the regular season with a 12-4, allowing just 165 points in 16 games. This defensive prowess would prove crucial in the playoffs, as the Ravens would face several tough opponents on their way to the Super Bowl.

The "Ray Lewis Dance":

One of the defining images of the Ravens' championship season was Ray Lewis' now-famous pre-game dance. Before every game, Lewis would dance, combining shuffles and shimmy. The dance quickly became an iconic part of the Ravens' identity, and Lewis' passion and intensity helped to galvanize the team and its fans.

The Road to the Super Bowl:

The Ravens' road to the Super Bowl was challenging, as they faced tough opponents in each round of the playoffs. In the wild-card round, the Ravens faced the Denver Broncos, led by quarterback Brian Griese. Despite being on the road, the Ravens could pull off a 21-3 victory, big thanks to their defense.


In the divisional round, the Ravens faced the Tennessee Titans, who had a potent offense led by quarterback Steve McNair. Once again, the Ravens' defense rose to the challenge, holding the Titans to just 10 points in a 24-10 victory.


In the AFC Championship game, the Ravens faced the Oakland Raiders, who had one of the best offenses in the league. However, the Ravens' defense shut down the Raiders, holding them to just three points in a 16-3 victory.

The Victory over the New York Giants:

In Super Bowl XXXV, the Ravens faced the New York Giants, who had a vigorous defense. However, the Ravens were able to jump out to an early lead, thanks to a touchdown pass from quarterback Trent Dilfer to receiver Brandon Stokley. From there, the Ravens' defense took over, intercepting Giants quarterback Kerry Collins four times and holding the Giants to just seven points.


The Ravens would win the game 34-7, securing their first Super Bowl championship in franchise history. Ray Lewis was named the game's MVP, capping off a legendary season for one of the NFL's most iconic players.


In conclusion, the Baltimore Ravens' victory in Super Bowl XXXV was a defining moment in the franchise's history. Led by a dominant defense and Ray Lewis's passion, the Ravens overcame tough opponents on their way to the championship. The team's victory over the New York Giants in the Super Bowl cemented their place in NFL history and established them as one of the league's most successful franchises.

Sources:


The Brian Billick Era:


The Baltimore Ravens have had a relatively short but successful history in the NFL, having won two Super Bowl championships in their relatively brief existence. This article will explore the Brian Billick era of the Ravens, during which the team experienced significant success and underwent substantial changes. 

Billick's Coaching Style:


Brian Billick was hired as the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens in 1999 after previously serving as the offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. Billick was known for his innovative offensive schemes and ability to get the most out of his players.


Under Billick's leadership, the Ravens experienced a significant turnaround in their fortunes. After finishing with a record of 6-10 in his first season, the team improved to 12-4 in his second season and would make the playoffs in four of the next five seasons.

The Ravens' Offensive Struggles:


Despite Billick's reputation as an offensive mastermind, the Ravens' offense struggled much during his tenure as head coach. The team's defense, led by future Hall of Famers Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, was dominant during this time, but the offense was often inconsistent and struggled to score points.


One of the most significant issues facing the Ravens' offense during this time was the need for a consistent quarterback. During Billick's tenure, the team went through several quarterbacks, including Tony Banks, Trent Dilfer, and Kyle Boller. While these quarterbacks all had moments of success, none could establish themselves as a long-term solution for the team.

The Emergence of Ed Reed:


One of the bright spots for the Ravens during the Billick era was the emergence of safety Ed Reed as one of the best defensive players in the league. The Ravens drafted Reed in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft, and he quickly established himself as a playmaker on the field.


During his time with the Ravens, Reed was known for his ability to intercept passes and return them for touchdowns. He was also an excellent tackler and played a vital role in the team's success on defense. Reed would be named to nine Pro Bowls and eventually be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The 2006 Playoff Run:


While the Ravens' offense struggled during much of the Billick era, the team made several playoffs runs thanks to the strength of its defense. One of these runs came in the 2006 season when the team finished with a record of 13-3 and won the AFC North division.


In the playoffs, the Ravens faced the Indianapolis Colts in the divisional round. Despite being heavy underdogs, the Ravens kept the game close and had a chance to win in the final minutes. However, a missed field goal by kicker Matt Stover sealed the Ravens' fate, and the team fell to the Colts 15-6.


In conclusion, the Brian Billick era of the Baltimore Ravens was marked by significant success and significant challenges. While the team's offense struggled during much of this time, the defense was dominant, and the team was able to make several playoff runs thanks to the strength of its security. Billick's innovative coaching style helped to establish the Ravens as a competitive NFL team, and the emergence of players like Ed Reed helped to cement the team's place in NFL history.

Sources:


The John Harbaugh Era Begins:

The Baltimore Ravens have become one of the NFL's most successful franchises in recent years, having won two Super Bowl championships in their relatively short history. This article will explore the John Harbaugh era of the Ravens, during which the team experienced significant success and changes.

Harbaugh's Hiring and First Season:

John Harbaugh was hired as the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens in 2008 after spending several years as an assistant coach with the Philadelphia Eagles. Harbaugh was known for his no-nonsense coaching style and ability to get the most out of his players.


In his first season with the Ravens, Harbaugh led the team to a record of 11-5 and a spot in the playoffs. The team was led by rookie quarterback Joe Flacco, who had a solid season and helped establish himself as the team's long-term solution.

The Drafting of Joe Flacco:

One of the key moves made by the Ravens during the John Harbaugh era was the drafting of quarterback Joe Flacco. The Ravens selected Flacco in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, and he quickly established himself as a capable quarterback.


Under Harbaugh's guidance, Flacco would have several standout seasons with the Ravens, including a Super Bowl MVP performance in the team's victory over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII.

The 2008 Playoff Run:

In addition to Flacco's solid rookie season, the Ravens' success in 2008 was also due to the strength of the team's defense. Led by Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, the reason was dominant throughout the season and helped to propel the team to the playoffs.


In the playoffs, the Ravens faced off against the Miami Dolphins in the wild-card round. Despite being heavy underdogs, the Ravens were able to pull off a 27-9 victory, largely thanks to the play of Flacco and the defense.

The Wild Card Victory over the Miami Dolphins:

One of the defining moments of the John Harbaugh era came in the team's wild-card victory over the Miami Dolphins in the 2008 playoffs. The game was played in Miami, and the weather was hot and humid. However, the Ravens overcame these challenges and put together a dominant performance.


The team's defense held the Dolphins to just three field goals while Flacco threw two touchdowns and ran for another. The victory helped to establish the Ravens as a team to be reckoned with in the playoffs and set the stage for their success in the years to come.


In conclusion, the John Harbaugh era of the Baltimore Ravens has been marked by significant success and significant changes. Harbaugh's hiring in 2008 helped to establish the team as a competitive NFL franchise, and the drafting of quarterback Joe Flacco helped to solidify the team's long-term future at the position. The team's playoff success, including the wild card victory over the Miami Dolphins, helped to establish the Ravens as one of the league's premier teams and cemented their place in NFL history.

Sources:


Super Bowl XLVII Champions:


The Baltimore Ravens are one of the NFL's most successful franchises, having won two Super Bowl championships in their short history. In this article, we will explore the Ravens' championship season in 2012, culminating in their Victory in Super Bowl XLVII.

The Ray Lewis Retirement Tour:

One of the real storylines of the Ravens' championship season was the impending retirement of legendary linebacker Ray Lewis. Lewis had announced before the season that it would be his last in the NFL, and the Ravens were determined to send him out on a high note.


Lewis's retirement tour became a primary focus for the team and its fans, and his emotional speeches and pre-game dances helped to galvanize the group and its supporters. Lewis would go on to have a strong season, leading the team in tackles and helping to anchor the defense.

The "Mile High Miracle":

One of the defining moments of the Ravens' championship season came in their divisional-round playoff game against the Denver Broncos. The game, played in Denver, was a back-and-forth affair, with the two teams trading leads throughout.


Late in the game, with the Ravens trailing by a touchdown, quarterback Joe Flacco threw a deep pass to receiver Jacoby Jones, who made an incredible catch and scored a game-tying touchdown. The play, known as the "Mile High Miracle," helped propel the Ravens to a double-overtime victory and set the stage for their playoff success.

The Victory over the San Francisco 49ers:

In Super Bowl XLVII, the Ravens faced off against the San Francisco 49ers in what would prove to be a memorable game. The Ravens jumped out to an early lead, thanks to some strong play from quarterback Joe Flacco and some critical turnovers by the defense.


However, the 49ers mounted a comeback in the second half, led by quarterback Colin Kaepernick. The game became a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows and momentum.


Ultimately, the Ravens could hold on for a 34-31 victory, thanks to their defense's strength and Flacco's play. The Victory gave the Ravens their second Super Bowl championship in franchise history and cemented their place as one of the NFL's most successful franchises.


In conclusion, the Baltimore Ravens' Victory in Super Bowl XLVII was a defining moment in the franchise's history. Led by the impending retirement of Ray Lewis and the play of Joe Flacco, the team overcame tough opponents on their way to the championship. The team's Victory over the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl cemented their place in NFL history and established them as one of the league's most successful franchises.

Sources:

"Super Bowl XLVII" by NFL.com (https://www.nfl.com/super-bowl-xlvii/)


The Post-Super Bowl Years:

The Baltimore Ravens have become one of the NFL's most successful franchises in recent years, having won two Super Bowl championships in their relatively short history. This article will explore the post-Super Bowl years of the Ravens, during which the team has experienced both successes and challenges.

The Departure of Key Players:

After winning the Super Bowl in 2012, the Ravens saw several key players depart in the following years. Legendary linebacker Ray Lewis retired after the season, and safety Ed Reed signed with the Houston Texans. The team also saw several other key players leave in free agency, including linebacker Paul Kruger and receiver Anquan Boldin.


These departures left the Ravens with significant holes to fill on offense and defense, and the team struggled to maintain its championship form in the following years.

The Rise of Justin Tucker:

One of the bright spots for the Ravens in the post-Super Bowl years has been the emergence of kicker Justin Tucker as one of the best kickers in the NFL. Tucker was signed by the Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2012 and quickly established himself as a reliable kicker.


Since then, Tucker has become one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history and has made several game-winning kicks for the Ravens. His consistency and reliability have helped to make him one of the most valuable players on the team.

The Playoff Drought:

After winning the Super Bowl in 2012, the Ravens struggled to maintain their success in the following years. The team missed the playoffs in the next three seasons, struggling with injuries and inconsistent play on offense and defense.


Despite these challenges, the Ravens rebounded in 2018, finishing the season with a record of 10-6 and securing a spot in the playoffs. The team would win their first playoff game since their Super Bowl victory before falling to the Los Angeles Chargers in the divisional round.

The Lamar Jackson Era:

One of the defining moments of the post-Super Bowl years for the Ravens has been the emergence of quarterback Lamar Jackson as one of the league's most dynamic players. The Ravens drafted Jackson in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, and he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the field.


In his first season as the team's starting quarterback, Jackson led the Ravens to a 14-2 and was named the league's MVP. His electrifying play helped to establish the Ravens as one of the most exciting teams in the NFL and set the stage for their success in the years to come.


In conclusion, the post-Super Bowl years of the Baltimore Ravens have been marked by both successes and challenges. While the team has struggled to maintain its championship form in the years since its victory in 2012, the emergence of players like Justin Tucker and Lamar Jackson has given fans reason to be optimistic about the team's future. The Ravens' success in 2018, and their return to the playoffs, show that the team is still a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.

Sources:


Conclusion:


The Baltimore Ravens are one of the NFL's most successful franchises, having won two Super Bowl championships in their short history. From the team's early years to today, the Ravens have experienced significant successes and challenges and have established themselves as a competitive and respected team in the league.


The team's success can be attributed to several critical factors, including:


  • The strength of the team's defense has been a hallmark of the Ravens throughout their history. Led by legendary players like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, the Ravens defense has consistently been among the best in the league.

  • The team's ability to draft and develop talent, particularly at the quarterback position. Players like Joe Flacco and Lamar Jackson have been vital contributors to the team's success and have helped to establish the Ravens as a force to be reckoned with on offense.

  • The leadership of the team's coaches, including Brian Billick and John Harbaugh. These coaches have been able to get the most out of their players and have established a winning culture within the organization.

While the Ravens have experienced significant success in their relatively short history, the team has faced its fair share of challenges. These challenges have included:


  • The departure of key players, including Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, left significant holes in the team's defense.

  • Injuries to key players have impacted the team's performance on the field.

  • Inconsistent play on offense, particularly in the post-Super Bowl years, has made it difficult for the team to maintain its championship form.

Despite these challenges, the Ravens have remained a competitive and respected team in the NFL. The team's recent success, including their return to the playoffs in 2018, shows that they are still a force to be reckoned with in the league.


In conclusion, the Baltimore Ravens have established themselves as one of the NFL's most successful franchises. The team has experienced significant successes and challenges from its early years to today but has remained competitive and respected in the league. With a strong defense, talented players, and effective leadership, the Ravens are poised to continue their success in the years to come.



Sources:


FAQs

What was the Baltimore Ravens' old name?

The Baltimore Ravens were not initially located in Baltimore but were a part of the Cleveland Browns franchise. When owner Art Modell moved the team to Baltimore in 1996, he rebranded the team as the Baltimore Ravens. Therefore, the Baltimore Ravens have yet to have an old name, as they were a newly created team in Baltimore.

How did the Ravens come to Baltimore?

The Baltimore Ravens were not initially located in Baltimore but were a part of the Cleveland Browns franchise. In 1995, Browns owner Art Modell announced that he was moving the team to Baltimore, citing financial difficulties in Cleveland as the reason for the move. Modell's decision was met with significant backlash from Cleveland fans, who felt betrayed by the move. The NFL eventually agreed to leave the Browns' name, colors, and history in Cleveland, allowing the city to retain a team in the future. The Baltimore Ravens played their first season in 1996 and quickly established themselves as a competitive NFL franchise. The team's success, including two Super Bowl championships, has helped to solidify their place in the city's sports history.

Why was Baltimore named the Ravens?

When Art Modell moved the Cleveland Browns franchise to Baltimore in 1996, he was required to choose a new name for the team, as the Browns' character and history were left behind in Cleveland. According to reports, the name "Ravens" was chosen in honor of writer Edgar Allan Poe, who lived in Baltimore for several years and wrote his famous poem "The Raven" while living there. The team's logo and colors were also designed to reflect the city's history and culture, with the purple and black color scheme inspired by Baltimore's famous black and purple marble steps. The name "Ravens" was also seen as a nod to the team's new home in Baltimore, as the city is home to a significant population of Ravens. The name was seen as a good fit for the team, as it was unique and distinctive and helped to establish a new identity for the franchise in its new home.

Jesse M. Earl

Jesse M. Earl is an experienced sports blogger with 6 years of expertise in the field. Jesse has developed a reputation throughout his career for his insightful analysis and engaging commentary on various sports topics. He has covered many sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and soccer, and is particularly interested in the intersection of sports and culture. Through his writing, Jesse provides a fresh and unique perspective on the latest sports news, offering readers a deeper understanding of the impact of sports on society. With his extensive knowledge and passion for sports, Jesse is a trusted voice in the world of sports journalism, and he continues to inspire and inform his readers with his thoughtful and thought-provoking content.


BACK TO TOP