The Baltimore Ravens must feel like they are trapped in the vise that is the parity-ridden world of the NFL.
On one hand, a third season in a four-year stretch without a playoff appearance -- and back-to-back such seasons for the first time since 2004 and 2005 -- might cause some fans to think the franchise has slipped from its consistent contender's status.
On the other, several close losses -- including one in Pittsburgh Dec. 25 where a win could have meant a division title and No. 3 playoff seed -- might leave the impression the Ravens are closer to a third Vince Lombardi Trophy than many think.
The Ravens are 31-33 in regular-season play since winning Super Bowl XLVII, the most stark indicator yet that it is a team caught in the middle, with little to indicate which direction its arrow is pointing.
