In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, Ashley is joined by James and Gordon for an in-depth look at how Jesse Minter’s coaching staff is rapidly taking shape, and why this feels like one of the most significant organisational shifts the Ravens have made in years. With hires coming thick and fast on both sides of the ball, the episode is a detailed exploration of philosophy, fit, and what this new era could look like on the field.

The conversation begins with the appointment of Declan Doyle as offensive coordinator, a move that signals a clear break from the Ravens’ recent past. The panel unpack why this is a genuine swing-for-the-fences hire, discussing Doyle’s background under Sean Payton and Ben Johnson, his lack of play-calling experience, and why the Ravens appear comfortable betting on youth, innovation and scheme fit rather than familiarity. There’s deep discussion around how a West Coast based offense paired with wide zone concepts could unlock Lamar Jackson in new ways, particularly with personnel better suited to zone blocking than gap-heavy schemes.

That leads naturally into a major talking point: the offensive line. The hiring of Dwayne Ledford as offensive line coach and run game coordinator is described as a coup, with the group outlining why Ledford is one of the most highly regarded line coaches in the league. They explore how this hire changes the outlook for players like Tyler Linderbaum, what it might mean for contract decisions and free agency priorities, and why certain profiles simply may not fit the scheme going forward. The episode also touches on the importance of investing in the trenches now that Baltimore finally has the coaching infrastructure to maximise that talent.

The offensive staff discussion continues with the additions of Eddie Faulkner and Joe Lombardi, focusing on the importance of surrounding a young coordinator with experience. Rather than viewing these hires as threats to Doyle, the panel frame them as a support system designed to give him the best chance of success. There’s thoughtful debate about succession planning, continuity, and whether the Ravens are quietly building an offensive ecosystem that can survive inevitable coaching turnover if things go well.

On the defensive side, the return of Anthony Weaver draws significant praise. The group break down why Weaver’s previous stint in Baltimore produced some of the best balance the Ravens have had between run defense and pass rush, and why his presence alongside Minter feels like a perfect complement. There’s also excitement around Mike Mickens joining as defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator, with discussion of his reputation as a developer, his college track record, and the sense that the Ravens are quietly stacking future defensive coordinator candidates within the building.

Further additions such as PJ Volker and Charlie Gellman spark a wider conversation about trust, analytics, game management and how Minter may be structuring his responsibilities as a first-time head coach who will still call defensive plays. The panel consider how these roles could improve situational football, an area that has frustrated Ravens fans for years.

The episode also reacts to Jesse Minter’s first press conference, noting its understated tone but picking out key themes that mattered, particularly his repeated emphasis on the team being at its best when it matters most. The discussion reflects on how that message aligns with the Ravens’ recent playoff struggles and why it struck such a chord.

Elsewhere, the pod touches on league-wide coaching movement, including Todd Monken’s departure to Cleveland and what his legacy in Baltimore should be, along with brief discussion of cryptic social media posts from Nnamdi Madubuike and what, if anything, Ravens fans should read into them.

In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, Ian is joined by James, Ashley and Gordon to react to the biggest news of the offseason so far as the Baltimore Ravens appoint Jesse Minter as their new head coach. It’s a landmark moment for the franchise, and the conversation reflects both the excitement and the scale of what this decision could mean for the future.

The episode opens with immediate reaction to the hire, with consensus that Minter was the standout candidate on the market and a name the group had been aligned on for some time. The discussion centres on why the Ravens moved decisively, the sense that competition from other teams accelerated the timeline, and why Baltimore felt confident enough to act before completing every remaining interview.

From there, the focus shifts to what Jesse Minter actually brings as a football coach. There is an in-depth breakdown of his defensive philosophy, drawing on his work at Michigan and with the Chargers. The panel explore how Minter uses light boxes, disguises coverages, manufactures pressure without heavy blitzing, and builds his scheme around elite versatile defenders. Comparisons are made between Derwin James’ usage in Los Angeles and Kyle Hamilton’s role in Baltimore, with optimism that Hamilton could be unleashed to an even greater level under Minter.

The episode also digs into roster fit. The group discuss why players like Roquan Smith, Travis Jones and Kyle Hamilton make Baltimore a natural landing spot for Minter’s system, while also being honest about where reinforcements are still needed, particularly along the defensive line and at edge rusher. There’s thoughtful debate on whether Minter’s schematic ability reduces the need for a blockbuster edge signing, or whether one true difference maker is still required.

Attention then turns to Minter’s coaching background, tracing his journey from growing up around college football under his father Rick Minter, through Notre Dame, Michigan, Vanderbilt and the Ravens, to becoming one of the most respected defensive minds in the sport. The panel push back against the idea that he is simply a “Harbaugh tree” hire, highlighting his two decades of coaching experience and his role in shaping the modern Ravens defensive identity alongside Mike Macdonald and Zach Orr.

A major portion of the episode is dedicated to the offensive coordinator search, which may ultimately define how successful this hire becomes. The group debate the merits of stability versus upside, discussing candidates such as Joe Brady, Kliff Kingsbury, Matt Nagy, Davis Webb and Nathan Scheelhaase. There’s a detailed examination of what Lamar Jackson needs at this stage of his career, whether the Ravens should prioritise an experienced “adult” play caller, and how much weight Lamar’s reported preferences should carry.

The discussion also touches on potential free agent and coaching connections from Minter’s time in Los Angeles and college football, including whether familiar faces could follow him to Baltimore and accelerate the transition into his system.

The episode closes with a sense of cautious optimism. While many questions remain, the Ravens have clearly committed to a new direction built around defensive excellence, modern teaching and long term vision. It’s the beginning of a new chapter in Baltimore, and one that could reshape the franchise for years to come.

In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, Shane is joined by Gordon, Ashley and Ian for a wide ranging and deeply thoughtful discussion that captures the Ravens firmly in offseason mode, with no games to review but no shortage of major storylines shaping the future of the franchise.

The episode opens with the mood around Baltimore following a weekend that at least brought some minor comfort, as the Steelers were convincingly beaten. From there, the conversation quickly turns to the biggest topic of the offseason: the Ravens’ head coaching search. With John Harbaugh gone for the first time in nearly two decades, the panel work through the growing list of confirmed and rumoured candidates, discussing what it says about the organisation’s priorities and how exhaustive the process appears to be.

There is detailed debate around offensive versus defensive head coach philosophies, with strong arguments laid out on both sides. The discussion touches on names such as Jesse Minter, Robert Saleh, Brian Flores, Anthony Weaver and Kevin Stefanski, weighing their strengths, past situations and how they might fit with Lamar Jackson and the current roster. The group also examine the risks of hiring very young candidates, the appeal of experienced coaches who may have been burned elsewhere, and whether familiarity with the Ravens organisation should be seen as a positive or a negative.

The conversation then pivots to Steve Bisciotti’s press conference, his first in seven years, which provided rare insight into how the owner views the state of the franchise. The panel analyse his candid comments on the Harbaugh firing, including the timing, the decision making process, and the reasons behind the move. There is honest discussion about how the situation was handled, what may have been left unsaid, and why the explanation around coaching failures and lack of player development stood out so strongly.

Lamar Jackson’s role in the future of the Ravens is another central theme. The group break down Bisciotti’s comments on Lamar’s contract, his involvement in the coaching search, and what felt like a clear challenge for Lamar to step into an even greater leadership role. The mechanics of a potential extension, the urgency around timing, and the wider narrative surrounding Lamar are all explored in depth.

Attention also turns to roster uncertainty, particularly the future of Nnamdi Madubuike following his serious injury. The panel discuss what the lack of updates might signal, the potential implications for the salary cap, and the sobering reality that this could be a career altering moment for a player who had become a defensive cornerstone.

Looking further ahead, the episode reflects on Bisciotti’s comments about ownership succession and his long term plans for the franchise. With a rough ten year horizon mentioned, the discussion explores what Ravens fans may take for granted with stable ownership, and why the next decade feels especially important for capitalising on the current competitive window.

The episode closes with a look at individual recognition around the league, including the Ravens’ All Pro selections. Kyle Hamilton’s continued excellence, Jordan Stout’s standout season and Pat Ricard’s recognition are all discussed, along with which players could be in line for future honours if the team gets things right.

In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, Gaz, Shane, James and Ashley attempt to put a painful Week 18 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers into context, only for the entire conversation to be blown wide open mid-recording by one of the biggest pieces of news in franchise history: John Harbaugh being relieved of his duties as head coach of the Baltimore Ravens. What begins as a post-mortem on a lost season turns into a raw, unfiltered live reaction to a seismic moment for the organisation.

The episode opens with reflections on a brutal end to the 2025 season, as the Ravens fall short in a back-and-forth AFC North battle that felt like a perfect microcosm of the year. Despite flashes of brilliance, the night ultimately came down to a missed field goal from rookie kicker Tyler Loop, sealing another narrow defeat and confirming the Ravens’ absence from the playoffs. The panel break down the opening drives, the familiar pattern of early promise followed by stagnation, and why this game felt inevitable long before the final kick sailed wide.

There is detailed discussion on Lamar Jackson’s performance, particularly a fourth quarter that reminded everyone why he remains the beating heart of the franchise. The group analyse Lamar’s ability to transcend chaos, escape collapsing pockets, and create something from nothing, while also acknowledging how often this season he has been let down by protection issues, drops and inconsistency around him. Derrick Henry’s usage is also dissected, with context around game script, penalties and defensive struggles limiting sustained offensive rhythm.

On the other side of the ball, the defence comes under heavy scrutiny. The loss of Kyle Hamilton during the game proves to be a turning point, but the conversation makes clear that the warning signs were there long before. Poor tackling, ineffective pass rush, and an inability to get off the field on third down allowed the Steelers to control tempo. The panel discuss how the defence has regressed against competent opponents, and why the unit’s improvement earlier in the season may have been misleading.

Special teams take centre stage too, with a thoughtful and emotional discussion around Tyler Loop. Rather than scapegoating, the conversation focuses on accountability, mental resilience, and the reality of being a rookie kicker thrust into an impossibly high-pressure moment. The group reflect on Loop’s post-game response, the wider issue of kickoff inconsistency, and what the Ravens must consider at the position moving forward.

The episode then takes a dramatic turn. As discussion shifts towards league-wide coaching changes, the news breaks live that John Harbaugh has been fired. What follows is a candid, unscripted reaction as the hosts process the end of an 18-year era. There is immediate shock, followed by measured reflection on Harbaugh’s legacy, his role in building sustained success in Baltimore, and why this moment, however jarring, feels like the right inflection point for the franchise.

From there, the conversation expands into what comes next. The panel debate the type of head coach the Ravens should pursue, weighing offensive versus defensive-minded candidates, internal continuity versus external change, and the urgency of maximising Lamar Jackson’s Super Bowl window. Potential names are discussed, from experienced retreads to young innovators, alongside trust in Steve Bisciotti and Eric DeCosta to navigate what is now one of the most attractive openings in the NFL.

The episode closes with a look ahead to the offseason. Draft position, roster needs, schedule implications, and a renewed focus on community engagement all come into view. Despite the disappointment of how the season ended, there is a clear sense of optimism that meaningful change is coming, and that the Ravens still have the foundation to contend.

In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, Ian, James, Gordon and Ben soak up a festive turnaround as the Ravens keep their season alive with a huge road win over the Green Bay Packers and then watch events elsewhere fall perfectly into place to set up a winner takes all AFC North finale. 

The episode opens with reaction to a statement victory in Green Bay, where Baltimore leaned fully into the run game and delivered one of their most disciplined offensive performances of the season. With Lamar Jackson sidelined, the focus turns to a masterclass in game management from Tyler Huntley, who did exactly what was required. He protected the football, converted key third downs and used his legs to keep the offense on schedule. The panel break down why this was the blueprint the Ravens have been searching for in games without Lamar.

Unsurprisingly, the conversation centres on Derrick Henry, who dominated from the opening drive. The hosts dig into how the Ravens finally committed to him in short yardage and goal line situations, and how the offensive line, tight ends and fullback combined to create lanes all night long. There is detailed analysis of Tyler Linderbaum’s movement in the run game, improved blocking assignments for the guards, and standout work from Charlie Kolar, Isaiah Likely and Pat Ricard in the trenches.

Attention then shifts to the defensive side of the ball, where the performance was far from perfect but still impactful. The secondary comes under scrutiny after several blown coverages and big plays conceded, with particular focus on technique, communication and schematic issues that continue to surface. At the same time, the crew highlight the growing impact of the defensive front, praising Dre’Mont Jones, Travis Jones and Tavius Robinson for increasing pressure and improving run defense at a crucial point in the season.

From there, the episode captures the emotional chaos of watching the Browns stun the Steelers, a result that dramatically changes everything. The panel relive the tension, disbelief and eventual euphoria as Baltimore are handed an unexpected second life and a clear path to the division title.

That sets the stage for a full preview of Week 18 at Pittsburgh, with the AFC North on the line. The discussion covers the Lamar Jackson decision, debating whether a less than healthy Lamar or a fully fit Huntley gives the Ravens the best chance. Matchups to watch include the Ravens’ run game against Pittsburgh’s defensive front, the impact of injuries on the Steelers’ offense, and how Baltimore’s defense can limit short passing and yards after catch.

Score predictions and player props round out the episode, along with a wider conversation about playoff scenarios, potential Wild Card opponents, and why getting into the postseason any way possible is always worth it.

In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, Ian, Gordon and James react to the Ravens Sunday night debacle against the New England Patriots.

With the season now on life support who shoulder's most of the blame?

The guys make their picks for Raven of the week with a surprising nomination.

We round up the latest injury news, announce the Ravens to have made the Pro Bowl, talk coaching replacements and even begin our draft prep.

The episodes ends with a preview of the upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers with score predictions and player props.

In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, Ian, Gordon and Ashley react to one of the most complete and cathartic performances of the season as the Ravens deliver a shutout win over the Cincinnati Bengals, reigniting belief and dragging themselves right back into the playoff picture.

The episode opens with the atmosphere and energy around the game, including reflections from a UKRavens meetup that turned a huge defensive display into a shared, unforgettable experience. From there, the focus quickly shifts to the on-field product, starting where the credit is due: the defense.

Baltimore’s defense takes centre stage after pitching a goose egg against Joe Burrow and the Bengals. The panel break down what made this performance so special, from relentless pass rush pressure to disciplined coverage and outstanding communication on the back end. Dre’Mont Jones’ breakout game is analysed in detail, with discussion around how his arrival has transformed the rotation and allowed players like Tavius Robinson, Mike Green and David Ojabo to thrive in more defined roles. The group also highlight Kyle Van Noy’s interception, the perfectly executed lateral to Alohi Gilman, and how those in-season acquisitions are paying dividends at exactly the right time.

There’s also a thoughtful look at adversity on defense, including the season-ending ACL injury to rookie Teddy Buchanan. The discussion explores how the Ravens adjusted on the fly, the role Trenton Simpson played stepping in, and how Kyle Hamilton’s versatility continues to give the coaching staff answers even when injuries strike. The secondary’s performance earns plenty of praise too, as Ja’Marr Chase was largely contained and communication across the unit looked as sharp as it has all season.

On the offensive side of the ball, the conversation acknowledges a familiar slow start before highlighting how efficiently the Ravens finished the first half. Lamar Jackson’s performance is examined closely, with consensus that this looked like the healthiest and most confident version of him in weeks. Despite limited passing volume, Lamar delivered when it mattered, including a perfect strike to Zay Flowers and calm execution in late-half situations.

Derrick Henry’s impact looms large in the second half, as the Ravens leaned into the run game to close things out. The hosts discuss how Henry, Keaton Mitchell and the broader backfield combined for ruthless efficiency, allowing Baltimore to control the game without exposing Lamar unnecessarily. There’s also reflection on how quietly productive Henry’s season has been, even behind a much-criticised offensive line.

That offensive line remains a talking point, with detailed breakdown of guard struggles, Ronnie Stanley’s injury scare, and encouraging flashes from Carson Vincent in limited snaps. The discussion balances realism about ongoing protection issues with optimism about gradual improvement and the importance of health heading into the season’s final stretch.

The episode closes by turning attention forward to a huge Week 15 matchup against the New England Patriots. The panel dive into the tactical matchup, focusing on run defense trends, how Baltimore can attack New England, and what could decide the game on Sunday Night Football. Score predictions and player props round out the show, before a look ahead to the broader AFC North picture and what the final weeks of the season could hold.

It’s a wide-ranging, upbeat episode that blends tactical analysis, injury news, community moments and renewed optimism as the Ravens make their late-season push.

In this week’s episode of the UKRavens Podcast, the panel pick through another bruising AFC North defeat as the Ravens fall short against the Pittsburgh Steelers in a game that perfectly summed up a season full of frustration, false starts and self-inflicted wounds.

The discussion opens with the immediate fallout from a loss that left fans questioning whether complementary football exists at all in Baltimore right now. Despite a strong second-half response, the Ravens once again found themselves with too much to do late on, after a first half littered with mistakes, missed opportunities and momentum killers.

A major focus is the controversial refereeing, with plenty of time spent breaking down the key calls that shaped the game. From the league-admitted error on the Travis Jones penalty, to the dual-possession ruling, and the hugely debated Isaiah Likely no-touchdown decision, the crew separate what was genuinely wrong, what was marginal, and what the Ravens still should have played through.

From there, the spotlight turns firmly to the offensive line, which comes under heavy scrutiny after another uneven performance. The episode dives deep into protection breakdowns, communication failures, and why the interior line remains a season-long problem that continues to limit the offense and put Lamar Jackson under constant pressure.

The passing game doesn’t escape either, as dropped passes and missed chances are called out for compounding Lamar’s difficulties, even as his second-half performance offers one of the few genuine reasons for optimism. On the other side of the ball, the lack of a consistent pass rush and concerns about defensive coaching adjustments raise uncomfortable questions as the season ticks away.

There’s also discussion on recent off-field developments, including Mark Andrews’ contract extension, roster moves on the offensive line and special teams, and the usual Ravens rumour mill that followed a high-profile loss. The episode then closes by looking ahead to a crucial Week 15 rematch away at the Cincinnati Bengals, breaking down matchups, areas of opportunity, and whether this Ravens team can finally put together a complete performance when it matters most.