The Baltimore Ravens’ first drive of the 2024 NFL season got off to a rocky start as their offensive line struggled with penalties. Tackles Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Mekari were both called for illegal formation penalties in the game’s first seven plays, hampering the team’s progress. These penalties, a focus for officials entering the season, negated a potential big play for the Ravens due to offsetting a defensive pass interference call.
Fans and commentators alike were quick to notice the abundance of flags early in the game. Cris Collinsworth pointed out the officiating crew’s strict enforcement, remarking on the missed opportunity for the Ravens to advance down the field. “Wow. They are calling this razor-sharp here,” Collinsworth exclaimed during the NBC broadcast.
Even former player Jason Kelce, now retired and observing from the sidelines for the first time in years, shared his thoughts on the officiating decisions. The intensity of the penalties drew attention from viewers at home, with many echoing similar sentiments about the impact on the game.
