The Baltimore Ravens have made the playoffs five of the last six years, but they might not be so lucky in 2015. Here are four reasons why the Ravens won't make the postseason this year:
1) Tough AFC North
The Cincinnati Bengals have made the playoffs four straight seasons and only got better this offseason, while the Steelers are legitimate Super Bowl favorites and the Browns could easily improve on last year's 7-9 finish. That marks six extremely tough games for the Ravens, and along with their four games against the ultra-tough NFC West, they could easily miss out on a wild card spot.
2) Probably decline of Justin Forsett
Forsett had a career year for the Ravens in 2014, rusing for 1,266 yards and eight touchdowns, but that season could easily be an anomaly. That was the first time he had rushed for over 375 yards in a season since 2010, and doubled his career touchdown total. It's safe to say Forsett, who will turn 30 this year, won't be able to repeat those numbers - especially with offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak now coaching the Denver Broncos.
3) Lack of offensive weapons
Baltimore is relying heavily on the production of rookie wideout Breshad Perriman and tight end Maxx Williams to make up for the departure of Torrey Smith, but those are high expectations for rookies. Steve Smith Sr., who announced he will retire after the season, is the only Ravens pass-catcher that has a proven track record. Expect Baltimore's offense to struggle this season.
4) Defensive questions
Without Haloti Ngata and Pernell McPhee suring up Baltimore's rush defense and with new additions in the secondary, it's easy to believe that the usually stout Ravens defense will experience some problems at the start of the season. We have no doubts that John Harbaugh and Terrell Suggs will have them playing at a high level by the end of the season, it may cost them some games in the first few weeks they won't be able to get back at the end.
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