Baltimore: The NFL's Reluctant New Kid on the Block
So, you're wondering how long Baltimore has been in the NFL, huh? Well, let's dive into this gridiron history lesson, but with a side of humor, of course!
How Long Has Baltimore Been In The Nfl |
A Brief History of Football in Baltimore
Believe it or not, Baltimore has a pretty rich football history. Way before the Ravens were soaring through the air, there were the Baltimore Colts. Now, don't get too excited, Colts fans. This isn't about those Colts. Those guys packed up and moved to Indianapolis, leaving a pretty big football-shaped hole in Baltimore's heart.
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But fear not, football fans! In 1996, a phoenix rose from the ashes (or something like that). The Baltimore Ravens were born. Picture it: a city starved for football, and suddenly, there's a shiny new team with purple and black uniforms. It was like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and your birthday all rolled into one for Baltimoreans.
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The Ravens: From Rookies to Super Bowl Champs
Now, you might be thinking, "1996 isn't that long ago!" And you'd be right. But in NFL terms, that's practically prehistoric. The Ravens started as the NFL's awkward, new kid. They were the team everyone expected to fumble the ball. But boy, did they prove everyone wrong.
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A few years later, they were hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. Talk about a quick rise to fame! It was like going from zero to hero in the span of a commercial break. And let’s not forget, they did it again in 2013, proving that their Super Bowl win wasn't just a fluke.
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So, How Long Has Baltimore Really Been in the NFL?
Technically, the Ravens have been around since 1996. But if you're counting the Colts' time in Baltimore (and let's be honest, who isn't?), then we're talking about a much longer history. It's like asking how long you've been alive: does it start when you were born, or when you started being cool?
Bottom line: Baltimore has a pretty solid NFL pedigree. And while the city might have taken a little detour with the Colts, the Ravens have more than made up for lost time.
How to... NFL Fan Stuff
- How to become a die-hard Ravens fan: Find a purple and black outfit, memorize the words to "Hail to the Victors," and be prepared to defend your team with unwavering loyalty.
- How to survive a Ravens game: Layers are key. You'll need something for the cold, something for when it gets hot, and something to cover your face when the opposing team scores.
- How to impress your football-loving friends: Learn the difference between a slant and a screen pass. Or just nod enthusiastically when they talk about it.
- How to avoid getting into a heated argument about the greatest Ravens player of all time: Change the subject to the weather. Or pizza. Anything but Ray Lewis vs. Ed Reed.
- How to celebrate a Ravens victory: Plan a spontaneous dance party. Or just eat a whole bunch of crab cakes.
So there you have it. Baltimore's NFL history is a tale of triumph, tragedy (for Colts fans), and ultimately, touchdowns. Now go forth and impress your friends with your newfound football knowledge!