For over a month now, everybody has known the Cincinnati Bengals will be playing against the Ravens without cornerback Adam Jones. He was suspended by the league for one game after violating the league’s Personal Conduct Policy.

But after an all too familiar of a name, committing yet another dirty hit, Vontaze Burfict will miss three games. (originally five, appeal reduced to three).

This article sure has aged well..

Related The NFL needs to throw the rulebook at Burfict

This is a big advantage for Baltimore to take hold of. Week one, at Cincinnati, without two of their better defensive players, this offense has a chance to find the endzone. This gives the offensive line an easier job, and also the wide receiver unit to make the extra play(s) necessary to win.

With Joe Flacco not suiting up for preseason, but John Harbaugh promising Joe’s Week one return, this helps ease Flacco back into the league. No dirty Burfict to try and spear Joe in the crotch (which knocked out Vontaze, BTW). No ‘Pacman’, leaving Jeremy Maclin, Mike Wallace or Breshad Perriman with an easier assignment. The Ravens could score touchdowns, rather than 40+ yard field goals.

I have my complete confidence in the Ravens defense to contain the Bengals offensive unit, but it’s up to Joe and Co. to get the ball in the endzone.