Russell Street Report Street Talk Ravens Will Not Tank For The NFL Draft

Across social media, we saw comments from Ravens fans wanting the team to tank for the draft.

How does a team tank for the draft? Even the world’s top sportsbooks wouldn’t accept a wager on such a ridiculous notion.

Over the past couple of weeks, OC Marc Trestman has been adjusting his play calling to the capabilities of the offense. In order to get the ball to Chris Givens, Trestman has been using a max protect scheme in order to give Flacco / Schaub time to get the ball downfield. By utilizing a max protect formation, Trestman can take advantage of Givens’ speed against the defense.

How does Trestman help tank a game? Does he let the QB get sacked? Does he ask Givens to go over the middle?

Since becoming the number 1 receiver, Kamar Aiken has averaged 10 targets a game. Prior to Steve Smith Sr’s injury, Aiken averaged 6 targets a game. Aiken has also scored a touchdown in the last two games.

How does a receiver like Kamar Aiken help the Ravens tank for the draft? Do the Ravens ask Aiken to go out of bounds instead of trying to score?

Terrance West made his Ravens debut against the Browns. He averaged over 5 yards per carry. West is trying to re-start his career after being cut from the Titans. West is an ideal back in the Ravens offense. He is effective in short yardage. West can also pass protect. He is willing to pick up blitzers.

How does West help the Ravens tank for the draft? Does he let blitzing linemen sack the Quarterback?

It is impossible for the Ravens to tank for the draft. The coaches have to prepare for upcoming opponents and install game plans. The players have to practice hard and execute on game day. An average of 17 new players are brought onto an NFL team at the start of the season.

The players are fighting for their NFL careers.

Tanking a game for a possible draft pick just doesn’t make sense to them.