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Business Wire
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Datavault AI Showcases Cutting-Edge Tech at NFL Hall of Fame and Major Industry Trade Shows, Receives Pinnacle Award
BEAVERTON, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Datavault AI Inc. (NASDAQ: DVLT), a leader in AI-powered data monetization and digital identity technologies, continues to build national momentum with high-profile industry engagements, award wins, and strategic product integrations. The company showcased its latest platforms, VerifyU™, ADIO™, and DVHOLO™ at the NFL Hall of Fame events in Canton (July 31 through August 3) and the 2025 NFL Preseason Opener, reaching a diverse national audience. Through its collaboration with NFL Alumni Health, Datavault AI will introduce VerifyU identity tokens to over 25,000 attendees and 200+ high-profile guests, marking a public debut of its secure AI-driven digital identity solution. The event features stakeholders from leading organizations including Walmart, the DEA, and SPIRE Academy, while ambassadors like Ray Lewis and Emmitt Smith amplify the initiative's social reach to an audience of over 20 million. 'Our continued momentum reflects strong product-market fit as we accelerate adoption across key verticals,' said Nate Bradley, CEO of Datavault AI. 'From showcasing VerifyU at the NFL Hall of Fame to our expanded footprint in national trade shows, our technologies are entering a phase of scalable deployment.' In parallel with its consumer-facing initiatives, Datavault AI is strengthening its footprint in the $60B+ global event technology market. Through CompuSystems (CSI), its integrated event registration and engagement platform, Datavault's ADIO and DVHOLO platforms are now deployed at major 2025 events such as ASSP, AWFS, SEBC, and Cosmoprof North America. These cross-market activations highlight the versatility and growing demand for immersive and AI-powered content delivery in both consumer and enterprise event environments. The company's role in transforming the event space was recently profiled in Trade Show Executive, one of the industry's most respected publications. The feature recognized how CSI's integration of Datavault's ADIO and DVHOLO technologies are redefining event engagement and audience analytics. Last month, Datavault AI was honored with a Pinnacle Award, a nationally recognized accolade celebrating excellence across key technology sectors, for its leadership in digital identity, spatial computing, and content distribution technologies. About Datavault AI Inc. Datavault AI™ (Nasdaq: DVLT) is leading the way in AI driven data experiences, valuation and monetization of assets in the Web 3.0 environment. The company's cloud-based platform provides comprehensive solutions with a collaborative focus in its Acoustic Science and Data Science Divisions. Datavault AI's Acoustic Science Division features WiSA®, ADIO® and Sumerian® patented technologies and industry-first foundational spatial and multichannel wireless HD sound transmission technologies with IP covering audio timing, synchronization and multi-channel interference cancellation. The Data Science Division leverages the power of Web 3.0 and high-performance computing to provide solutions for experiential data perception, valuation and secure monetization. Datavault AI's cloud-based platform provides comprehensive solutions serving multiple industries, including HPC software licensing for sports & entertainment, events & venues, biotech, education, fintech, real estate, healthcare, energy and more. The Information Data Exchange® (IDE) enables Digital Twins, licensing of name, image and likeness (NIL) by securely attaching physical real-world objects to immutable metadata objects, fostering responsible AI with integrity. Datavault AI's technology suite is completely customizable and offers AI and Machine Learning (ML) automation, third-party integration, detailed analytics and data, marketing automation and advertising monitoring. The company is headquartered in Beaverton, OR. Learn more about Datavault AI at About VerifyU VerifyU is a trusted leader in identity verification solutions for academic institutions, businesses and organizations worldwide. By leveraging state-of-the-art technology, VerifyU offers secure, efficient and user-friendly tools to streamline processes, enhance trust and ensure compliance. Learn more about VerifyU here. About ADIO ADIO is a pioneer in inaudible tone technology, delivering cutting-edge solutions that seamlessly integrate data transmission into audio content. By enabling interactive, secure, and non-intrusive user experiences, ADIO's technology is transforming industries such as advertising, broadcasting, and consumer engagement. Learn more about ADIO at About DVHolo DVHolo is at the forefront of next-generation holographic technology, offering high-fidelity, real-time holographic experiences that transform engagement across live events, virtual meetings, and entertainment. In partnership with HYPERVISION, DVHolo delivers cutting-edge solutions that bring immersive media to life, setting a new standard in holography. Learn more about DVHolo at About CompuSystems, Inc. CSI is a premier provider of registration, data analytics, and lead management services for live events, offering cutting-edge solutions and unparalleled customer support to clients in the trade, association, corporate, and government event markets. With a strong focus on innovation, customer service, and sustainability, CSI is dedicated to delivering exceptional event experiences for clients and their attendees. Learn more about CSI here. Forward Looking Statements Disclaimer This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and other securities laws. Words such as "expect," "will," "anticipates," "continues" and variations of such words and similar future or conditional expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including statements herein regarding our business opportunities and prospects, strategy, future revenue expectations, licensing initiatives, patent initiatives as well as the successful implementation of the patented technologies, are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us and our management, are inherently uncertain. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the following: our ability to successfully utilize all intellectual property that has been issued and granted Notices of Allowance; risks regarding our ability to utilize the assets we acquire to successfully grow our market share; risks regarding our ability to open up new revenue streams as a result of the various patents mentioned in this press release; our current liquidity position and the need to obtain additional financing to support ongoing operations; general market, economic and other conditions; our ability to continue as a going concern; our ability to maintain the listing of our common stock on Nasdaq; our ability to manage costs and execute on our operational and budget plans; our ability to achieve our financial goals; the degree to which our licensees implement our technologies into their products, if at all; the timeline to any such implementation; risks related to technology innovation and intellectual property, and other risks as more fully described in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The information in this press release is provided only as of the date of this press release, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this communication based on new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.
Forbes
6 days ago
- Sport
- Forbes
NFL Training Camp Spotlight: Zimbabwe's TJ Maguranyanga And His Unconventional Journey To The Pros
As NFL training camps get underway and the countdown to a new season begins, most players chasing a spot on the 53-man roster arrive through familiar routes: college programs, draft picks, and well-trodden pipelines. But at the Washington Commanders camp, one story cuts against the grain. Thabani Jehiel 'TJ' Maguranyanga didn't grow up in a Friday Night Lights town or suit up for an NCAA powerhouse. His path to the NFL started thousands of miles away, between Zimbabwe and South Africa, where American football was more fantasy than future. "My favourite team as a kid was the Baltimore Ravens because of Ray Lewis," he shared in an interview with "I was always attracted to football," he added, even though pursuing a professional career seemed out of reach at the time. Maguranyanga explained, "There was never a pathway into the NFL," so he initially focused on trying to make it in the NBA. He participated in Jr. NBA programs and took basketball seriously. However, at 17, he admitted that "those hoop dreams died." One door closed, but another opened in a way he never expected. Just as his rugby season in France wrapped up last year, the NFL's International Player Pathway (IPP) program which boasts alumni such as Super Bowl Champion Jordan Mailata came calling. 'It lined up perfectly,' TJ said. This offered a leap into a whole new world, ushering him from the wide-open pitches of France to the disciplined, high-stakes grind of American football. Bridging Two Cultures: Rugby Roots, Football Dreams When it comes to sporting identity, South Africans live and breathe rugby in the same way that Americans are consumed by football. Maguranyanga, who made the switch from rugby to American football, understands this connection better than most. 'What rugby is to South Africans, American football is pretty much the same thing,' he explained. 'You can see how important the Springboks are to South Africa, well, the NFL is just as significant in the U.S.' This cultural immersion was hard to miss. 'As soon as you touch down in America, there are football jerseys everywhere. You won't go a day without seeing someone wearing an NFL jersey.' The scale and presence of the sport struck him immediately, this wasn't just a game; it was part of the social fabric. Beyond the fanfare, he noticed something deeper: a familiar sense of camaraderie. 'The energy of football and rugby is very similar in terms of brotherhood. That's something I recognised quickly.' However, where the two sports diverge is in how that energy is expressed. 'In rugby, we're encouraged to be more gentlemanly. In the NFL, players are allowed to have more fun with it. There's hype, there's swagger. I think that's something we don't really see in rugby.' That flair isn't just for show; it's ingrained in the culture, even in the smallest moments. 'In practice, there's always celebration. When someone scores a touchdown or makes a big play, we celebrate that. As a team, we're very good at acknowledging each other's achievements.' When asked if he had a celebration planned for his first sack, Maguranyanga laughed. 'I haven't been practicing any. My girlfriend asked me the other day, 'When you get your first sack, what's your celebration?' and I was like, 'I actually don't know.'' However, the anticipation is there. 'When it happens, we'll see. Something will come to me in the moment.' Adjusting to the Demands of a New Game The transition from rugby to American football was always going to be challenging, but for Maguranyanga, the biggest hurdle wasn't the physical shift. 'From a physical standpoint, I would say I was brought into the IPP program because I'm an athlete,' he confidently states. 'They believed I could compete at the same level as other athletes. So, from that perspective, I haven't struggled or doubted myself.' The real challenge lay in the mental aspects, the steep learning curve of a new sport. 'Learning a new sport at the highest level, against the best players, is very tough,' he admits. 'Some days, I have to remind myself that I'm still learning. These guys have been playing since they were kids.' He recognised that certain elements, subtle nuances, instinctual reads, and the rhythm of the play, could only be developed over time and through repetition. This mental grind intensified during his time in the NFL's IPP program. 'I expected a gruelling 10 weeks,' he recalls, 'and that's exactly what it was, the hardest 10 weeks of my life.' At IMG Academy in Florida, the conditions were intense: two-a-day practices in sweltering heat and humidity, far from home and loved ones. 'There were times when I would finish my day, realise that everyone back home was asleep, and feel alone. Yet, I still had to study my playbook. It required a lot of adjustment.' For Maguranyanga, Jordan Mailata's journey through the IPP program has been a powerful source of motivation. 'What Jordan has done for the program is massive,' TJ explains. 'He set the standard, and set it very high.' From being seen as a rugby reject to captaining an NFL team and winning a Super Bowl, Mailata's story is proof that with dedication and hard work, international athletes can reach the pinnacle of American football. TJ acknowledges the importance of strong support systems, noting how the Philadelphia Eagles fostered Mailata's growth into an All-Pro player and potential Hall of Famer. 'He's the best to ever come out of the IPP program,' TJ says, looking forward to the day he might face his idol on the field. Mailata's success fuels TJ's belief that regardless of background or initial doubts, perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievement in the NFL. Life with the Commanders Now a member of the Washington Commanders, Maguranyanga is adjusting to the grind of NFL life. 'It's extremely hot and humid here,' he says. But more than the weather, it's the structure that stands out. 'Our days are very long. I'm at the facility at 6 a.m., we practice at 8, and I'm only leaving around 5:30 or 6 p.m. That's before film and learning the playbook.' For someone used to the rhythm of rugby preseason, where training wrapped by early afternoon, the NFL's relentless pace has taken some getting used to. 'There's such a huge focus on watching film and studying the game,' he explained. 'You have to be so dedicated to even have a shot at making the team.' That intensity, both mental and physical, is part of what separates the NFL from any other sporting environment Maguranyanga has experienced. Yet amidst the grind, he's found an unexpected source of strength: the people around him. 'The entire building has been super helpful,' he said. 'From the front office all the way to the scouts. My coaches: Darryl Tapp, Ryan Kerrigan, and Sharrif Floyd, have been very instrumental in making me feel comfortable and pushing me to get better every single day.' Veteran players have also stepped up to support the newcomer. Dorance Armstrong, a fellow defensive end, has taken on a mentor role. 'I sit next to him in meetings,' Maguranyanga shared. 'He's always helping me, explaining things if I have a question, whether it's in the classroom or on the field.' But perhaps the most surreal support has come from one of the NFL's all-time greats. 'Having Von Miller join the team is huge,' he said. 'He's someone I've looked up to, one of the greatest ever to do it at defensive end.' Despite Miller's legendary status, Maguranyanga describes him as humble and generous with his time. 'He's always there to listen and take whatever questions you have. He's been super helpful in giving me advice on how to play certain techniques.' From the outside, adjusting to a new sport might seem like an uphill climb. But inside the Commanders' camp, it's clear Maguranyanga isn't walking that path alone. A Family Learning Curve Maguranyanga has made significant strides on the field, but his journey into American football has also been a learning experience for his family. He shared, 'They've definitely embraced it, and they're enjoying the process of learning the game. I won't say American football is an easy game to pick up.' This sentiment resonates with many international athletes who step into a sport filled with unique terminology, intricate rules, and strategic complexity. For Maguranyanga, the learning process has turned into a family affair. Watching games together has become a bonding experience, starting from a place of cautious curiosity. His younger brother, Zachary, was not initially interested in football. However, a dramatic late-night overtime matchup between the Ravens and Bengals changed that. 'I actually fell asleep, and I woke up during overtime,' Maguranyanga recalled. 'When I came back, he was still awake at 2 a.m. watching that game. So I thought, wow, someone's really getting into it.' Now, Zachary joins him in watching games and highlights, asking questions and picking favourite players. 'It's super cool to have a family that's just as invested in learning about the game,' Maguranyanga said with a smile. Their shared enthusiasm continues to fuel his passion for football, making every play on the field a moment they can grow into together. Playing for the Continent As Maguranyanga settles into life with the Washington Commanders, the former rugby wing from Zimbabwe is acutely aware of the significance of his moment and the responsibility that comes with it. With American football gaining popularity across Africa, TJ is part of a new wave of athletes inspiring interest and reshaping perceptions of the sport. "Yes, and I hope I do a good job of being an ambassador for the game in Africa," he says. 'I already see many more people in Zimbabwe taking an interest in the NFL than there used to be.' This trend mirrors the impact of African athletes in other global leagues. The NBA, for example, has seen passionate followings grow in countries like Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, nations that have produced world-class talent. 'When you look at the NBA, so many Nigerians and people from Congo and Senegal are attracted to it because there are players from their countries in those leagues,' he explains. 'Similarly, South Africans are more likely to watch the Premier League when they see a South African player.' Maguranyanga believes the NFL's International Player Pathway program is accelerating this shift. With more athletes from Southern Africa entering the talent pipeline, the chances of seeing players from Zimbabwe, Botswana, or South Africa on the field on Sundays are higher than ever. He points to the example of Mapalo Mwansa, a Zambian player who recently participated in the same program and was signed to the Carolina Panthers, evidence, he says, that the doors are opening. 'The NFL is doing a great job of growing the game, and I hope to continue doing my part,' he adds. This isn't just a hope; it's a goal. For Maguranyanga, representation is the spark. With each practice repetition and game snap, he aims to light the fire for someone back home who never thought this path was possible. Beyond the Breakthrough: Building a Long-Term NFL Career For Maguranyanga, the dream extends beyond simply making it to the NFL; it's about establishing a lasting presence in the league. When asked about his short- and long-term goals, his response is clear and focused: 'What drives me the most right now is to play. I just want to play.' This sentiment is rooted in both ambition and realism. He understands that there is still a long journey ahead, more learning, growth, and proving himself. However, he is also confident that becoming a consistent presence on a 53-man roster is within his reach. 'In the next three years, I'll definitely be on an NFL roster consistently. I don't think that's an unrealistic goal.' TJ is part of a new generation of International Player Pathway (IPP) athletes who are redefining what it means to break into American football. The program has evolved beyond simply opening the door; it now focuses on building pathways for longevity. 'We don't want athletes to just be on practice squads for three years and then exit the league,' he says. 'We aim for them to have long careers, like Jordan [Mailata] is currently enjoying. That's my goal.' The mission is longevity, not just entry. Maguranyanga isn't chasing a fleeting moment; he's pursuing a sustained career. In doing so, he represents not only himself but also carries the aspirations of a broader movement: international athletes striving to transform the narrative from 'developmental' to indispensable.
New York Times
28-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Are Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson the top NFL QBs? A look at the new Madden 99 club
In what's become an annual conversation piece around this time of year, EA Sports released the latest class of the Madden 99 Club. The Madden 99 Club is a group of players who earn the exclusive '99' rating in the video game. Since 2002, 99 is the highest rating a player can achieve (there were a few 100s awarded by the game in its earlier days). Here's the 99 Club Class of Madden NFL 26: For five of the seven players, it's their first time receiving the honor. It's the second time for Garrett, who also received the top rating in Madden NFL 23, and the second time for Jefferson, who was part of the club in Madden NFL 24. Introducing your official #Madden26 99 Club Class! Sundays Start Early! 7 Days Early Access Begins 8/7*. 🔗: | #Madden26Ratings — Madden NFL 26 (@EAMaddenNFL) July 28, 2025 One distinction for this year's class is that there is no carryover from the previous year. For context, this is the first time since Madden NFL 2002 that there was not at least one member carried over from the last iteration of the game. Through the years, some dominant runs by individual players have helped keep that streak alive. Advertisement No player in the league received a 99 rating in Madden NFL 2001. However, from Madden NFL 2002 through Madden NFL 06, Ray Lewis received a 99 rating for five consecutive years. From Madden NFL 06 through Madden NFL 11, Peyton Manning carried a 99 rating for six straight years, until he missed a full season due to injury. Darrelle Revis had three consecutive top-rated years from Madden NFL 11 through Madden NFL 13. Calvin Johnson carried the torch from Madden NFL 13 through Madden NFL 15. J.J. Watt went four straight years, from Madden NFL 14 through Madden NFL 17. Then came the longest stretch in the history of the game, when Aaron Donald received a 99 rating every year from Madden NFL 18 through Madden NFL 24 (Von Miller helped keep the streak alive of having at least one player carry over by appearing at the top in Madden NFL 17 and Madden NFL 18, before Donald took off). Last year's class of the 99 Club featured Miami Dolphins receiver Tyreek Hill, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey, 49ers tackle Trent Williams and Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Hill dropping out is not a surprise. Although the receiver is supremely talented, he had a down year in 2024. After consecutive years of over 1,700 yards receiving, Hill had just 959 yards receiving in 17 games last season. His six touchdown receptions also were tied for the lowest in his career, which first occurred in his rookie season in 2016. Despite playing in 16 games, Kelce had 823 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Both figures are the lowest of his career, not counting his rookie season in 2013, in which he only played one snap. Injuries hurt the cases of both 49ers stars on last year's list. McCaffrey played just four games in 2024 while Williams played in 10. Advertisement That leads us to Mahomes, who is widely regarded as the best quarterback in the NFL. Mahomes received a 99 rating in four of the last five Madden NFL games before this year, missing the cut only in Madden NFL 23, where he had a 95 rating. That ensuing season, Mahomes threw for a career-high 5,250 yards, 41 touchdowns, claimed league MVP honors and led the Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory over the Eagles. Now, coming off a Super Bowl loss to the Eagles, Mahomes drops from the top rating while two quarterbacks, Allen and Jackson, get their first-ever 99 rating. In last year's NFL Top 100 list, which the players vote on, Jackson was the top-ranked quarterback at No. 2 overall, while Mahomes came just behind at No. 4 overall. In 2020, Jackson was the top overall player on the NFL's Top 100 list, while Mahomes was No. 4. Mahomes has been the top player on the list twice, in 2021 and 2023. So, this isn't foreign territory for Mahomes, especially as it relates to coming behind Jackson in a league-wide ranking. Jackson and Allen being the highest-rated quarterbacks in the game this year is well-deserved and shouldn't come as a surprise after the two had a tight race for league MVP honors last season, which Allen narrowly won. However, Mahomes' ability to perform in the most significant moments is indisputable, as evidenced by his dominance in the AFC. Even in a down year in 2024 as a full-season starter, Mahomes' 3,928 passing yards were the lowest of his career, and his 26 touchdown passes were tied for the lowest of his career. However, Mahomes led his team to the Super Bowl. The Chiefs beat Allen's Bills in the AFC Championship Game, after the Bills defeated Jackson's Ravens in the round before. The year before, Mahomes beat Allen's Bills in the divisional round before taking care of Jackson's Ravens in the conference championship. Overall, Mahomes' presence has given the Chiefs a stranglehold on the AFC, a conference that also features Allen, Jackson and Joe Burrow. Aside from a one-year Burrow cameo in the Super Bowl, it's been Mahomes on the biggest stage for more than half a decade.
Yahoo
28-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Mike Preston: Best Ravens team ever? Let's compare them.
BALTIMORE — While celebrating their 30th year in the NFL, the Baltimore Ravens have pieced together their most complete and balanced roster. But with the return to football comes lofty expectations. It's Super Bowl or bust. There can be no other outcome. In the past two seasons, the Ravens have had one of the best rosters in the league but came up short both times, losing 17-10 to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC championship game in Baltimore two years ago and getting upset by the host Buffalo Bills, 27-25, in the divisional round in January. But this year's version is the best since Baltimore's return to the NFL in 1996. The franchise has won two Super Bowl titles, which is remarkable considering there are 12 teams that haven't won any. Yet those championship teams were composed of strong defenses that featured Hall of Fame players such as Ray Lewis, Rod Woodson, Ed Reed and a potential selection named Terrell Suggs. In retrospect, those offenses were basically required not to implode. The 2025 Ravens are different, but not perfect. They still need to upgrade their special teams with a kicker and a punt returner, and it remains to be seen whether the secondary can improve after making significant offseason additions. But this offense, oh my. It's almost flawless. The Ravens have a two-time Most Valuable Player in quarterback Lamar Jackson, who passed for 4,172 yards and 41 touchdowns last season and also rushed for another 915 yards and four more scores. They have one of the best big, multi-purpose backs in league history in Derrick Henry, who rushed for 1,921 yards last season, second in the NFL behind the Philadelphia Eagles' Saquon Barkley. Even the receivers are good despite the team's previous failures to find one in the draft. The Ravens have 'super vet' DeAndre Hopkins, Rashod Bateman and Zay Flowers as well as tight ends Mark Andrews, Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar. Whom does Jackson throw to? Anybody he wants. The only problem for offensive coordinator Todd Monken is finding enough touches for so many playmakers. The offensive line isn't great, but there aren't many that are in the NFL. This group struggles with pass blocking, but that's where Jackson provides the added dimension with his scrambling. This offense is loaded, pure and simple, equipped with a tempo-changing running back in Keaton Mitchell as well as a third-down specialist in Justice Hill. The scenario on the other side of the ball is different, but the possibilities are endless. The secondary should be improved from a year ago when the group was ranked 31st out of 32 teams. The Ravens made significant improvement in the second half of the season but also faced some bad quarterbacks such as the Pittsburgh Steelers' Russell Wilson (twice), the New York Giants' Tommy DeVito and the Cleveland Browns' Bailey Zappe. To increase the talent level, the Ravens drafted Georgia safety Malaki Starks in the first round and signed free agent cornerback Jaire Alexander in June. Alexander was a Pro Bowl selection in 2020 and 2022 with the Green Bay Packers, but injuries have forced him to miss 20 games during the past two seasons. If Alexander returns to form, defensive coordinator Zach Orr has a lot of combinations he can play on the backend with safety Kyle Hamilton near the line of scrimmage, rising cornerback Nate Wiggins on the outside opposite Chidobe Awuzie or Alexander and veteran Marlon Humphrey manning the slot. With Chuck Pagano helping coach the secondary, this group should be better complementing a run defense that was ranked No. 1 in the league a year ago. Nose tackle Michael Pierce retired, but the team has an ample supply of bulk up front with linemen John Jenkins, Nnamdi Madubuike, Broderick Washington, Travis Jones and rookie Aeneas Peebles. What's missing? They don't have a proven kicker. Justin Tucker, perhaps the best in league history, was released in early May and later suspended for the first 10 games of the season for violating the league's personal conduct policy after more than a dozen female massage therapists accused Tucker of inappropriate sexual behavior at several Baltimore-area spas and wellness centers. Sixth-round pick Tyler Loop and undrafted rookie John Hoyland are competing for the job now. Tucker and Matt Stover made major contributions in both of the Ravens' championship seasons. Tucker converted 30 of 33 field goal attempts in 2012, and Stover was 35 of 39 in 2000 when Baltimore went five games without scoring an offensive touchdown. Another missing ingredient is the return game. In 2000, the Ravens had Jermaine Lewis, who averaged 16.1 yards per punt returns. Lewis also had an 84-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the second half of the Ravens' 34-7 win against the Giants in the Super Bowl. In 2012, Jacoby Jones led the NFL with 1,167 kickoff return yards and scored two touchdowns. There are other intangibles. In 2000, quarterback Trent Dilfer was conservative but was a great game manager. In 2012, quarterback Joe Flacco had one of the greatest postseasons ever, tying Joe Montana's record with 11 touchdown passes without an interception. The Ravens need to get hot. In 2000, then-coach Brian Billick went with running back Jamal Lewis down the stretch as Lewis finished with 1,364 yards to complement the record-setting defense. Flacco was exceptional in 2012. Jackson needs to get hot in the postseason, where he is 3-5 during his eight years in Baltimore. In those eight games, he's passed for 1,753 yards and 10 touchdowns but has thrown seven interceptions and lost three fumbles. There is also the Ray Lewis factor. Not only was he the best player in the NFL in 2000, but his personality energized the Ravens, especially the younger players in 2012. Without Lewis, the Ravens don't win either of their two titles. The Hall of Fame linebacker's absence has been hard to fill. After the 2012 season, Ravens coach John Harbaugh got rid of the alpha males such as Lewis, Reed, safety Bernard Pollard and receiver Anquan Boldin, which forced the team into mediocrity for the next five seasons. Those years coincided with the early seasons in Baltimore when the Ravens didn't have enough cash flow to compete on both sides of the ball until Steve Bisciotti became a minority owner in 2000. But now they are back on pace again. Only one team has more overall talent than the Ravens, and that's Philadelphia. The defending champion Eagles can dominate with both interior lines, but they play in the NFC, so the AFC is a wide-open race. The expectations in Baltimore are justified, even though that might serve as both motivation and a distraction. But there are no more excuses for the Ravens to miss the Super Bowl, because this team is loaded. It's easily the most balanced in franchise history. It's time for them to play in a third Super Bowl. ____
CBS News
24-07-2025
- Sport
- CBS News
Baltimore Ravens fans fired up for season as training camp begins
Baltimore Ravens fan Courtney Roberts took his 6-year-old daughter away from her cartoons in Connecticut for a chance to meet star quarterback Lamar Jackson. It was the third year in a row they drove to training camp in Owings Mills, Maryland, to get an up-close look at the Ravens as they get ready to make another deep playoff run. "It's cool that I get to take my daughter here," Roberts said. Roberts' daughter carried a sign that said, "I'm 6 years old and I skipped cartoons for you Lamar! From Connecticut with love. Can we take a pic?", in hopes of catching the two-time MVP's attention. Roberts said he became a Ravens fan because of Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis, who won two Super Bowl championships. This year, he hopes to celebrate the Ravens' first championship since his daughter was born. "I expect us to go all the way. I think we are capable," Roberts said. "I think we just have to put our foot to the pedal, stay mentally focused, and I think the championship is ours." On Wednesday, the Baltimore Ravens held their first of 12 opening training camp practices at the Under Armour Performance Center. Approximately 1,000 free parking passes were distributed earlier this month for each practice, which were given away in minutes. The outdoor practice facility was filled with fans who were optimistic about the Ravens' Super Bowl championship chances, which hadn't happened since the 2012 season. "It's the start of football, we are fighting through the heat, we've got the season coming. It all starts here," Ravens fan Chuck Warfield said. Warfield and his wife, Martha, attended Wednesday's training camp with replica Super Bowl championship ring hats. "This is the building block for the best team in the NFL this year. We're going to do it," Martha Warfield said. Other fans, decked out in their favorite Baltimore Ravens' outfits, wanted to get their first glimpse of this year's team and make some fun memories. "Autographs, seeing the new players, making memories with my son, and just having a good time," a Ravens fan told WJZ. Baltimore Ravens fans on Wednesday had the first opportunity to see newcomers, including former Pro Bowlers Jaire Alexander and DeAndre Hopkins, as well as draft picks Malaki Starks and Mike Green. Of course, the returning stars were on the field, including Jackson, running back Derrick Henry, wide receiver Zay Flowers, linebacker Roquan Smith, and safety Kyle Hamilton, among others. "I still can't believe it," Roberts said. "I was a running back in high school, so I look up to Derrick Henry. He's a machine." The Ravens return to the practice field on Thursday and Friday this week before getting the weekend off. They host the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday, August 7, for their first preseason game. The Ravens kick off the regular season on Sunday Night Football in Buffalo on Sept. 7. Their first home game is on Sept. 14 against the Cleveland Browns.
