Ravens could get in trouble for reckless hits vs. Raiders

Sep 13, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) runs the ball against Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen (6) during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) runs the ball against Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen (6) during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

As the K.C. Chiefs prepare to face the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, the coaches might want to make sure they’re ready for another angle for what should be a tough competition: the Ravens’ reckless playing style.

The Ravens are fresh off of a frustrating Week 1 loss in over to the Las Vegas Raiders and now they’re on the ropes for a 0-2 start if they cannot beat the best team in the AFC (and potentially the NFL) in the visiting K.C. Chiefs in primetime. What makes things even tougher is that they’re trying to shed the monkey that has landed on their back with four straight losses to the Chiefs since Andy Reid arrived as head coach.

Given the likely level of emotion and passion, the Chiefs are going to get all that the Ravens have to offer them—and then some. In Ravens’ speak, it’s going to mean a reckless playing style that is needlessly violent in a sport that’s already dangerous enough for the players involved.

According to Vic Tafur, senior writer for The Athletic, the Raiders have reportedly filed a complaint with the league about the unnecessary hits on their players, specifically wide receiver Hunter Renfrow, during the game. Tafur’s report:

If you’re wondering about some of the context, you can at least see it on one play here, where cornerback Marlon Humphrey got in what is essentially a cheap shot on Renfrow when no one was looking (except the crowd of thousands and the television audience, of course).

The Ravens have been known for being a punishing, physical defense for some time, a theme that carries back to the days of Ray Lewis at linebacker or Ed Reed in the secondary. It’s another thing, however, to go over the top and try to get a cheap shot in or two. That’s where injuries can easily happen, a ridiculous development in what is ultimately a game being played.

It will be interesting to see how the NFL handles the Raiders’ complaint, what comes of it if anything, and how the Chiefs approach the matter as they are the next team up to visit the Ravens. Even if the Ravens are trying to get some kind of edge, it’s not working at all. They’re already 0-1 in a tough AFC North and now must try to get the best of the Chiefs who beat them by two touchdowns a year ago.

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