The next four weeks have been circled on the calendar for the Indianapolis Colts since Training Camp began.
The Baltimore Ravens, Tennessee Titans (twice), and Green Bay Packers one after another are a challenge for any team, coach, quarterback, or defense alike. But something about the status of the Blue and White feels different.
For one, Philip Rivers is starting to look like what the $25 million dollar contract warrants. Jordan Wilkins has emerged as a strong runner from the backfield, and the defense is playing as a full unit. But things certainly change when you welcome in the reigning MVP to your own building.
Lamar Jackson presents some serious challenges. But a front line that features the likes of DeForest Buckner, Sheldon Day, and Tyquan Lewis can make a day even for Jackson difficult.
To help scout the Colts latest opponent, ESPN Ravens reporter Jamison Hensley called into The Fan Morning Show Thursday. He talked with Jeff Rickard and Big Joe about Baltimore’s loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and the current COVID-19 situation.
“When you look at this team it’s anything but normal circumstances,” Hensley said. “They’re coming off an emotional loss to their biggest rival in Pittsburgh and in that game they lost their all-pro left tackle Ronnie Stanley to a season ending ankle injury. And the next day Marlon Humphrey tested positive for COVID. He’s out for Sunday’s game.”
The Coronavirus news has hit Baltimore in a negative way beyond just Humphrey though. Earlier this week, they had six other players placed on the COVID list out of precaution. They are not necessarily ruled out to play Sunday, but the Ravens don’t have them practicing.
“This could be a rallying point for the Ravens knowing they can’t slip too much farther down,” Hensley added. “They have the Colts, then the Titans and a rematch with the Steelers. They understand the importance of Sunday’s game but there are a lot of things going on from the outside.”
Baltimore did sign former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant to their practice squad. But according to multiple reports, he will not make his Ravens debut until around Thanksgiving.
Kickoff on Sunday afternoon is set for 1 PM.
Tune into The Fan Morning Show weekdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
