Ravens' Bateman on team's struggles: "We are not upholding the standard right now."

The Baltimore Ravens are grappling with their worst start in franchise history at 1-4, raising concerns about the team's direction.

Why it matters: The Ravens current record is tied for the worst start since the franchise's inception, putting immense pressure on players and coaching staff alike as they prepare for an upcoming matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.

• With three consecutive losses by significant margins, including a recent 44-10 defeat to the Houston Texans, the team is facing scrutiny from fans and analysts.
• Historically, starting 1-4 greatly diminishes playoff chances; only four of 283 teams have made the playoffs after losing five of their first six games in the Super Bowl era.

What’s new: Rashod Bateman, one of the team's wide receivers, has publicly acknowledged the frustration felt by fans and the urgency for the team to improve.

• Bateman stated, “It's kind of shocking... The fans got every right to feel how they feel. They expect excellence. It's our job to deliver that.”
• His remarks highlight the disconnect between expectations and reality, underscoring the accountability felt within the locker room.

Yes, but: Despite the challenges, head coach John Harbaugh remains optimistic about rallying the team for a turnaround.

• He emphasized the importance of focusing on the process rather than getting overwhelmed by the mounting criticism: “They’re completely motivated to get the win this week, but the main thing you have to focus on is how to do it.”
• The Ravens leadership appears committed to navigating this tough period while maintaining player morale.

What to watch: Injuries are another critical factor affecting the Ravens’ performance.

• Key defensive players such as Roquan Smith and Marlon Humphrey are sidelined due to hamstring and calf injuries, respectively.
• The absence of these Pro Bowl talents could further hinder the team's ability to compete effectively against a potentially formidable Rams offense.

By the numbers: The Ravens are not just struggling; they are experiencing historically poor performances.

• Their recent loss against the Texans marked the fewest total yards (207) amassed in a game over the last eight years.
• This alarming statistic reflects broader systemic issues, particularly in offensive execution.

The bottom line: As the Ravens confront their early-season woes, improvement is essential if they hope to salvage the remainder of the season.

• With next week’s game against the Rams looming, this matchup becomes crucial for both their playoff aspirations and the future of the coaching staff.
• A continued inability to perform may lead to more drastic changes within the organization as the season progresses.