The Ravens look ready for the real thing.
Friday night's 41-3 victory over the Washington Commanders concluded a perfect preseason for the Ravens, as their defense continued to dominate. Baltimore surrendered just 13 points and one touchdown during the preseason, and almost any defensive play dialed up by Head Coach Jesse Minter worked well.
Baltimore's offense flexed as well, with undrafted rookie quarterback Joe Fagnano (19 for 27, 162 yards, one touchdown) putting a bow on an impressive preseason.
With both teams resting almost every starter, the performance must be kept in perspective. But the Ravens look like they can't wait for their regular season to begin in about two weeks on Sept. 13 when they visit the Indianapolis Colts.
"I just love the energy that we started the game with," Minter said. "Proud of these guys, happy the way training camp has gone overall, like where our team's at."
In the meantime, Baltimore must reduce its roster from 91 to 53 players by Sunday's 6 p.m. deadline.
Here are my five thoughts on the preseason finale: