The Baltimore Ravens knew they'd be in for a street fight this afternoon, but the Philadelphia Eagles are feeling it first-hand, and the Ravens lead 17-7 at the end of the first half. Philly has had a lot of chances but seemed to find ways to turn the ball over three times, twice via fumble and once and interception in the end zone. Both times the Eagles were driving downfield and in position to score.
Ravens QB Joe Flacco fumbled as well, leading to the Eagles first score, but then regrouped and led the team downfield like a pro for two touchdowns, including a beautiful soft pass to WR Jacoby Jones, who faked out and beat All-Pro CB Nnamdi Asomugha.
Flacco has been almost masterful, 13 of 16 for 92 yards on mostly short passes, and the one 21-yard TD pass. RB Ray Rice has broken off a couple of long runs, carrying the ball seven times for 78 yards, including a long of 43 yards. But perhaps the highlight of the game has to be rookie placekicker Justin Tucker's 56-yard FG at the end of the half.
Stick with Baltimore Beatdown for this 2nd half 'Open Thread' and cheer the Ravens onto what is shaping up to be a hard-fought victory.