Ravens Fire Cam Cameron
Added on Dec 10, 2012 by Scott in
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One might think that a 9-4 team with a two-game lead in their division has little to no inner turmoil, but that’s not the case for the Baltimore Ravens. Following a second straight loss on Sunday, the Ravens relieved offensive coordinator Cam Cameron of his duties this morning. Former Colts head coach Jim Caldwell will assume playcalling duties for the remainder of the season.
Cameron has been a target of fans’ ire for the last three years. His consistently inconsistent offenses were unpredictable from week to week. One Sunday they score 31 points against the Patriots, two weeks later they fail to find the end zone on the road in Kansas City. With John Harbaugh feeling heat to reach the Super Bowl, the decision will be viewed by some as risky and perhaps a little desperate.
However, Cameron’s penchant to put games in Joe Flacco’s hands instead of Ray Rice’s has long been a cause for concern. Rice is clearly one of the best all around backs in the league, but Baltimore ranks only 17th in rushing. In addition, despite the increase in called throws they are just 16th in passing.
Caldwell, who is the current quarterbacks coach, has never been tasked to run an offense. How much of a difference he’ll make remains to be seen, but with three games left against playoff contenders Denver, New York Giants and Cincinnati, a strong finish is needed to secure a playoff berth.
Of course the real problem might have nothing to do with the offensive coordinator. The real problem might be Joe Flacco. After a brilliant 2010 campaign, the fifth-year signal-caller has regressed in 2011 and 2012. His accuracy difficulties and road woes are hurting the team, as well as placing increased pressure on an aging, injury-riddled defense.
Late season dismissals on contending teams are rare. Needless to say, how this pans out will go a long way in determining the present and future of Harbaugh’s tenure in Baltimore.
