Joe Flacco easily has some of the harshest critics around the league. Sometimes it is warranted, and sometimes I am a critic of him. However, no one ever seems to have anything positive to say about him when he plays well. So let’s take some time to talk about how fantastic Joe was yesterday.

Flacco did not start well, as the entire offense sputtered early on. Flacco also had an interception in the second quarter that cost the Ravens at least three points.

After the interception, Flacco had every reason to collapse and have a rough game. His second favorite target, Torrey Smith, was used as a decoy, only playing fifteen snaps, the defense gave up ten points on their first two possessions and the run game struggled early on. However, he stayed calm and collected, embracing his “Cool Joe” persona. On his final drive of the first half, Flacco led the Ravens 97 yards in three minutes and six seconds to bring the Ravens to within three at halftime.

That drive set a tone for the game and definitely gave the Ravens a huge momentum boost going into the second half.

Gary Kubiak called a very safe, conservative game in the passing attack. Flacco only attempted one pass for more than twenty yards, but his game plan worked to perfection. On the day, Flacco went 17-18 for 175 yards and one touchdown on passes between 0-9 yards.

What makes Flacco’s performance more impressive is how well he spread the ball around. With Torrey Smith only being used as a decoy, he was forced to find other targets besides the usual suspects like Steve Smith Sr. and Owen Daniels. Flacco paid particular attention to undrafted free agent Kamar Aiken. Aiken was very impressive in the preseason and continues to improve as a player. He has very strong hands and has shown the ability to get behind defenders with his speed and route running.

Flacco even connected with third-string tight end Phillip Supernaw for a 29 yard reception. Currently on ESPN.com, Joe Flacco has the 5th best QBR this week, with Matt Ryan and Aaron Rodgers having yet to play. It is also worth noting Flacco ranks sixth best in QBR on ESPN.com for the entire season.

Let the critics talk. Flacco is on pace to have a career season, and that will give the Ravens a very good shot at winning out and making noise in the playoffs.