Former Jets GM picks against Lamar Jackson’s Ravens due to “tragically” unfortunate death of offensive line coach
The Baltimore Ravens are staring down a stage arguably as big as the AFC Championship in the opening game of the 2024 NFL season. However, one analyst believes the team will lose in the playoff rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs. Speaking on Monday's edition of "Get Up," former Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum blamed the Grim Reaper for his prediction.
" [3:01] I don't think they're going to win Thursday night. Three new offensive linemen and unfortunately, tragically, their offensive line coach just passed away, and to open up on the road in such an environment like Kansas City, I think that's a tall order ... I just think it's going to take some time to break in those offensive linemen," Tannenbaum said.
According to a statement made by the team via WBALTV11, offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris died in August. The coach was hospitalized on August 10 due to complications from surgery.
George Warhop was hired on August 14 to be his replacement, per The Guardian. Of course, the offensive line might be one of the top few most important pieces to any football team but especially to the Baltimore Ravens. As a run-first offense, the line will open holes for Derrick Henry and angles for Lamar Jackson.
The question is whether Warhop can duplicate or coach the offensive line in under a month to be as effective as it was last year.
Lamar Jackson's Ravens face revenge opportunity against Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs have every reason to ride high into the 2024 regular season. Last year, they lost their opening game against the Detroit Lions but proceeded to win the Super Bowl. However, Chiefs fans want to win this year's season opener.
Meanwhile, Ravens fans are starving for an opportunity to get revenge for the previous season's playoff loss. At the very least, they don't want to come up small and chase Patrick Mahomes for the entire game. Rather, Lamar Jackson and his teammates would prefer to deal Mahomes a blow he won't forget.
While the stakes are mathematically the same in Week 1 as they are in Week 18, the game offers an opportunity to make a statement in front of the entire NFL. With a win, the Ravens will instantly remind the world they are the team to beat and with a loss, the world will be reminded why the Chiefs are the Super Bowl champions for a reason.
Which statement will be made on September 5?