Roquan Smith of the Ravens Issues An Early Warning to the Chiefs vs. Bills Winner
Most teams like playing the underdog and having the nation root for them while they compete for the title. On the other hand, Ravens LB Roquan Smith said the team is happy to accept the villainous position.
Josina Anderson, an NFL insider for CBS Sports, chatted with Smith following the Ravens’ 34-10 Divisional victory over the Houston Texans.
Smith said, “I love Buffalo wings & I love BBQ,” in response to Anderson’s question on his feelings about the upcoming opponent, which may be either the Buffalo Bills or the Kansas City Chiefs. So line them up, whomever it is.
Smith’s admonition to the two teams effectively demonstrates that the Ravens are unafraid of anyone who stands in their way of winning the Super Bowl.
“We are on our way. We are arriving at the end of the day. Smith cautioned anybody standing in their path, saying, “It must pass through the [M&T] Bank.”
The AFC championship game will be played at M&T Bank Stadium, which will be required of the Chiefs and Bills victor. The Ravens had a 7-3 record at the Bank this year; their only defeat was against the Pittsburgh Steelers at the end of the season when they rested their starters.
This season, the Chiefs performed well, finishing 6-2, while the Bills struggled on the road, going 4-4.
“There is a villain in every story,” Smith said to Anderson. When she probed further to find out who the culprit was, Smith said, “I don’t think you have to look too far.” Every single guy in this locker room.
When asked if he was a villain, Smith said, “I’m one of them,” laughing.
Roquan Smith Applauds the Ravens’ Approach to Defensive Play
The Chiefs and Bills offenses will present a formidable challenge for the Ravens. Josh Allen of the Bills or Patrick Mahomes of the Chiefs will be their opponent.
But they don’t fear any team, as they proved when they played the Texans in the Divisional Round. After eight quarters of play against the Ravens defense, the Texans have yet to score any touchdowns on offense.
“At the end of the day they [Texans] did a great job of protecting him, but at the end of the day we got what we needed to get done,” Smith said while discussing the defensive effort.
With C.J. Stroud heading a youthful club, the Texans boast a potent offensive line led by the likely Offensive Rookie of the Year. In the playoffs Wildcard round, the Texas team thrashed the formidable defense of the Cleveland Browns, winning 45-14.
When the Texans managed to get on the Ravens’ side of the field, it seemed like they were always regressing since they were unable to generate any momentum on the ground or in the air.
Smith stated, “It’s about what we do, not what they do.” Smith thinks the defense will ultimately force its will on any opponent if they play their brand of football.
“Best Fans” Are Found at M&T Bank Stadium Roquan Smith claims that the boisterous Ravens fan base provides Baltimore with a home-field edge while hosting the AFC Championship. Among the NFL’s most boisterous and enthusiastic fan bases has been Baltimore’s.
“With a hostile environment and the best fans in the land, can’t,” Smith said to Anderson.
