Feb. 16, 2026, 3:01 p.m. ET
For most of the Baltimore Ravens‘ history, the franchise has been defined by defense. When fans think of the Ravens, names like Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Haloti Ngata, and Terrell Suggs immediately come to mind. That reputation has faded in recent years, but the hiring of head coach Jesse Minter and defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver could signal a return to Baltimore’s roots.
Weaver recently appeared on the Ravens’ official podcast, The Lounge, and described the defensive style he wants to build. Referencing former Arkansas basketball coach Nolan Richardson’s famous “40 Minutes of Hell” philosophy, Weaver put his own spin on it: “When they finish the game… it’d be 60 minutes of hell. When you played us, you’re gonna know you left the fight…”
If Weaver’s vision becomes reality, the Ravens may once again be defined by the same traits that built the franchise — physicality, urgency, and relentless effort. Baltimore has long taken pride in making opponents uncomfortable, and Weaver’s “60 minutes of hell” mentality fits squarely within that tradition. With Minter leading the charge and Weaver setting the tone on defense, the Ravens appear intent on reclaiming an identity that once made them one of the most feared teams in the NFL.
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