One game in and the debate is already raging. The Ravens won their first fight of the new season, amassed more than 500 yards of total offense, and exploded with four second half touchdowns. And yet a debate rages on.

Did the Ravens throw too much against the Chiefs?

The answer is probably yes. But the question is stupid.

Critics of the suddenly pass-happy Cam Cameron and Joe Flacco are pointing to the fact that after an especially pass heavy first half (25 passing plays to 14 running plays), the Ravens were still deadlocked with the Chiefs at 10-7. And that amid a pass-happy 3rd quarter, the Ravens trailed for the only time in the game following a Joe Flacco interception.

But following a 38 point showing and 14 point victory – if only a victory in the final moments – asking too many questions can be a bad thing.

The Ravens intentionally shifted to the pass on Sunday. And they will intentionally shift back to a more run-oriented attack in future weeks. We call these changes “game-planning.”

The Chiefs boasted one of the league’s worst pass defenses last year, including the worst pass rush in NFL history (10 sacks in 16 games). Attacking that weakness was a good move on the part of Cameron and John Harbaugh,  even if it came with some mixed results.

First and foremost, it helped to set up the crucial running success the Ravens had later in the game. It will probably help the Ravens run game for the rest of the season. No future opponent can look at the performances by Joe Flacco, Todd Heap, Derrick Mason or the offensive line and not take that into consideration when planning for the Ravens arrival. Putting the ball downfield forces a defense to account for that possibility – especially if you’re able to complete three of those attempts for over 20 yards. If anyone thinks the Ravens early passing did not have anything to do with their success on the ground late, they are simply wrong.

Also important, however, is giving Joe Flacco room to stretch. The second year is notoriously known as the Sophomore Slump for a reason. Usually, good rookies are asked to do more – or try on their own -  and the results can be catastrophic. Flacco will certainly be asked to do more this season for the Ravens, and at various levels. But allowing Flacco to show off his gun-slinging ability against the Chiefs was a good move. It not only builds confidence in the quarterback and offense, but it allowed Flacco to find his own limits in a safer environment.

This Sunday against the Chargers, you can certainly expect to see an offensive game plan more reminiscent of years past. The Ravens have not forgotten how to run the ball. Not even close. They elected to show off their passing ability against an inferior opponent, and it worked. Ray Rice, Willis McGahee and Le’Ron McClain will get plenty of work.  But Joe Flacco and the receivers will have their chances as well.

And that change can only be for the better.

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

“Always tease tease tease
You’re happy when I’m on my knees
One day is fine, next day is black
So if you want me off your back
Well come on and let me know
Should I stay or should I go?”