Ravens Practice Draws Tens Of Thousands Saturday
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The Olympics may be on most people's minds, but Saturday at M&T Bank Stadium it was all Ravens all day as Baltimore's purple birds had their first open practice of the season.
Monique Griego has fan reaction.
Fans are definitely ready for football season to kickoff. Many arrived hours early to the practice just to get a good seat.
With the official start of football season just weeks away, Ravens fever is heating up.
"We love the Ravens, can't wait!" said one fan.
"It's just nice to get back into the football feel," said another.
Tens of thousands of fans put on their purple gear and packed into M&T Bank Stadium for the team's first open practice.
"I've never had tickets before, so this is probably the closest I'll be to the action," said Roger Johnson.
"I love it because I don't really get to go to a lot of games sometimes. So to come here for free is really exciting," said Shante Smith.
Watching the Ravens on the field seemed to give many people a much needed football fix, after the months-long wait between seasons.
"It's tough. It's nice to watch the Orioles but it's tough and I'm glad football is back in town," said Corey Schoenberger.
But mixed in with the excitement is also a lot of anticipation from fans who are keeping a close eye on the team's performance.
"Just some of the new faces to see if they come up with new plays. See how the veterans are doing," said Schoenberger.
While fans were here to see how the Ravens are running their plays, many also just wanted to get close to their favorite player.
"I'm a Ravens fan, but I love Ed Reed so I came down here so I can see him up close and personal," said Bolonda Lay.
Fans showing a lot of support, but they also have high expectations.
"I have hope that we're going to take it all the way home," Lay said.
"I'm hope for a Super Bowl win," said another fan.
Around 20,000 fans attended Saturday's open practice.
The Ravens' first preseason game is away on Aug. 9 against the Falcons. Their first game at home is Aug. 17.
