Expectations have only been raised for the Baltimore Ravens this preseason.
Quarterback Joe Flacco has had a strong preseason, completing 61 percent of his passes and throwing three touchdowns (a rating of 90.9).
Baltimore's starting defense didn't allow a touchdown in three preseason games.
"Anything less than a Super Bowl win, really, is a disappointment to us," wide receiver Derrick Mason said.
"I think we've done more than enough over the last three years to put ourselves in a position to win a championship. To do all we've done and not come out of this thing with a championship would be disheartening."
Most of the excitement has been generated by the Ravens offense.
The Ravens bolstered themselves at wide receiver by trading for Anquan Boldin and re-signing Derrick Mason. They added depth by drafting two tight ends. And, perhaps most importantly, Joe Flacco has taken control of the offense in his third season, which is an integral one for most quarterbacks.
This has the makings of a top-10 offense.
"Our expectations as players are high every year," Flacco said. "We expect to get to the Super Bowl and win it. Obviously, only one team does that a year, and we expect to be that team."
Injuries have delivered a hit to Baltimore. Domonique Foxworth, the Ravens' top cornerback, tore his ACL a day before training camp officially began and was lost for the season. Offensive tackle Jared Gaither has missed the entire preseason with a back injury and could be sidelined for the season opener. And wide receiver Donte' Stallworth is expected to be sidelined until the bye week with a broken foot.
Most are concerned with the secondary. In addition to losing Foxworth, Pro Bowl safety Ed Reed has been out for the preseason after having offseason hip surgery.
"They're going to be fine without me," said Foxworth. "I promise you that if there are any shortcomings on this team, it won't be in the secondary. You can guarantee that."
The Ravens are confident in their replacements. Josh Wilson, who was acquired in a trade from Seattle, fills the void left by Foxworth. Oniel Cousins is expected to step in for Gaither. And Mark Clayton has taken over as the No. 3 wide receiver.
"We've got the talent to go as far as we want to," Flacco said. "It's about playing up to our capabilities. I think we've done that for the most part."
COACHING: John Harbaugh, 3rd year, 3rd with Ravens (23-14).
REMEMBERING: 2009 record: 9-7 (2nd in AFC North); lost in divisional round game to Indianapolis Colts, 20-3.
PREDICTING: 2010 regular season record: 11-5 (1st in AFC North); lose in Super Bowl.
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