That’s because of the highly detailed and accurate data teams get from tracking chips in each player’s shoulder pads called radio-frequency identification tags, or RFID.

“We have the tracking data from that game,” Harbaugh said, referencing Baltimore’s 27-20 loss to the Chiefs. “We know exactly where the Chiefs tackles were lined up and exactly where ours were lined up.”

The veteran coach was terse about specific findings. But the discourse is unambiguous, he said, because of the data available. So they’ll have a sense of whether officiating crews call it consistently as the season progresses.

Three of the Ravens’ five illegal formation penalties, including two on the opening drive, came against left tackle Ronnie Stanley. Stanley said after the game that he felt targeted by the officials and that his presnap alignment followed what he was told by offseason referees.

An illegal formation is called when a player’s helmet isn’t aligned with the waist of the center. It’s advantageous for a lineman in pass protection to be lined up further back behind the line of scrimmage. Stanley said Thursday night that he was confident his head was “breaking the center’s butt.”

“I thought Ronnie was in reasonable position almost all the time,” Harbaugh said. “I do think the adjustment that needs to be made, is during the course of the drive, if it’s something that you didn’t expect and it’s totally different than they’re calling the games, you gotta make the drastic adjustment right away and then we’ll talk about it later. Ronnie actually thought he was doing that. When you watch the tape, I think what he says bears out.”

Illegal formation penalties aside, Harbaugh said the offensive line  — which has been a hot topic through the preseason as they replaced three starters from last year — set a “pretty darn good baseline,” particularly in the deafening conditions of Arrowhead Stadium against a formidable Chiefs defensive front.

Similar to the slew of early penalties, Harbaugh isn’t worried about his offensive line.

“I know how hard they work and I know how talented they are and I watch all the other offensive lines in the National Football League,” he said. “I think if you applied some of the same standards to the other offensive lines out there, you’d be like, ‘Oh, boy.'”

Against Kansas City, the Ravens ran for 185 yards on 32 carries. Half of those were by quarterback Lamar Jackson, who finished with 122 rushing yards; Derrick Henry added 46 on 13 carries. The Chiefs combined for one sack and one quarterback hit. For reference, Kansas City totaled four sacks and seven quarterback hits in the AFC championship game in Baltimore in January.

“Our offensive line is going to be really good this year,” Harbaugh said. “I believe that. And we’re working hard toward that.”

Each year for the last four, Bel Air vs. Fallston football has been decided on the last drive — sometimes the last play. Every meeting winds up a thriller. “This is 29 million years in a row, it feels like,” Bel Air coach Eric Seigel said. “It’s always a one-score game.”

Last year, the Bobcats won, 22-21, when JT Ouandji Nana rushed up the middle for a 2-point conversion. Friday night, it was an interception from senior Michael Graham on fourth down that foiled Fallston’s two-minute drill and sealed Bel Air’s 27-20 win.

Graham aside, it was Bel Air’s sophomores and juniors who protected home turf for a team that arrived at Week 1 dreadfully depleted. The Bobcats were without their upperclass core quartet because of injuries. That meant no Julien Horton, Ouandji Nana, Patrick Sullivan or Evan Freeney — all difference makers on both sides of the ball.

Conversations of making up for lost production entering Friday were simple.

“It’s try to do the little things great,” Siegel said. “One of those philosophies we try to install.”

The Harford County preseason favorites fended off the Cougars because younger talent stepped up and, as their coach says, were great at the little things.

First, the help came from an unexpected source. Kayden Blaine nearly lived out every lineman’s dream. The 6-foot, 260-pound sophomore who sees reps on both sides of the trenches, undercut a dump-off pass from Fallston quarterback Dom Foster. As much as anything, Blaine was in the right place at the right time to make the catch inside the Cougars’ 20-yard line and scramble down to the 1. His extended reach landed a yard shy of a pick-six but he was still showered with love back on the sideline for his unexpected forced turnover in the second quarter.

Siegel played the same position when he was in high school and wanted so badly to see Blaine cross into the end zone. But “like the linemen do,” Siegel said, “you get tackled at the 1.”

Fellow sophomore Dylan James finished the job on the next play with a 1-yard rushing touchdown. That was James’ first of two scores. The second of which came on a pass from quarterback Michael Moore, a sophomore seeing his first taste of varsity action in Sullivan’s absence.

Ouandji Nana has historically been Bel Air’s power back; Horton is the team’s speedster. Junior Nathan Finnigan, playing his first game on varsity, filled in for both in the second quarter of Friday’s win. He parted the sea with an eye-popping 57-yard rush, tackled down a yard shy of a house call – just like Blaine.

“After the first half all the jitters went away and I was able to play to the best of my ability,” Finnigan said. “I hit one move on one guy and the safety was the only guy left to beat. That was all my O-Line.”

Fallston defended the goal line thrice following Finnigan’s explosive run. But on fourth down, Siegel went back to Finnigan for a short rushing touchdown, his first of two.

“I absolutely love the effort that Dylan James and Nathan Finnigan gave,” Siegel said. “Just that little one-two punch, those two kids have been fantastic.”

The Cougars hung around with a few big plays of their own.

There was a trick play that resembled the Philly Special finding Oliver Rueckert for a touchdown in the third quarter that trimmed Bel Air’s lead to eight. Then in the fourth, sophomore quarterback Mike Griffin Jr. aired one out to Zach Loewe for a 65-yard touchdown that again, brought Fallston within one score.

Every meeting between the two goes this way. One team edges out the other in the waning minutes, leaving every fan clenching their jaws and gripping the edge of their seats. The difference this time was the Bobcats’ depth. What does this win say about them?

“Watch out for Bel Air,” James said.

The Bobcats return two-way threat Julien Horton, the 2023 Aegis Player of the Year; Joël Tristan Ouandji Nana, who broke onto the scene with a powerful junior campaign last fall; and quarterback Patrick Sullivan, eager for his last dance. But take it from Bel Air coach Eric Siegal when he says, “Every team we play in the UCBAC is well coached and it’s a battle every Friday night.”

In early September, it’s hard to pin down one team entirely incapable of stringing a magical run. Last year that was Havre de Grace, turning a 6-6 record into a state quarterfinal appearance. Could another school find similar lightning in a bottle?

Here’s a look around the county (Editor’s note: not all teams responded to requests for information):

Aberdeen

Coach: Kaleb Myers, first year

Last year: 1-8

Top returners: Seniors Terrez Boothe (S/WR), Kelsyn Harris (QB), Tristyn Slogosky (DL) and Cameron Williams (LB); juniors Aaron Dixon (LB), Sean Green (OL) and Chase Saunders (DL); and sophomore Xzaiver Whittington (OL/DL).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Cameron Allen- Jones (LB/RB); sophomores Nepha’Tali McCown- Soto (DB) and Lennox Morris (OL); and freshman Jovan Kenion (WR).

Coach’s outlook: “Above .500, contending for division champions.”

Bel Air

Coach: Eric Siegel, sixth season

Last year: 6-5, regional semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Michael Graham (OLB/WR), Evan Freeney (LB/TE), Matthew Valente (OL/DL), Joël Tristan Ouandji Nana (RB/LB), Julien Horton (WR/DB), Nathan Calamita (LB/OL), KJ Wood (DB /WR), Hayden Meyers (LB/TE), DJ Collier (ATH) and Patrick Sullivan (QB); junior Jonathan Gettle (OL/DL) and sophomore Owen Reilly (OL/DL).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Lamar Watts (DB/WR); juniors Mikel Abeid (DB/WR), Zach Lipscomb (LB) and Nathan Finnigan (RB/LB); sophomores Dylan James (RB/DB) and Kayden Blaine (OL/DL); and freshman Malik Davis (LB).

Coach’s outlook: “The Bel Air Bobcats coaching staff is very excited about the mix of youth and senior leadership that has been displayed so far this year. We like the progress that has been made so far and are excited with where the team is headed. We look forward to improving every single day and watching these student athletes compete this season.”

C. Milton Wright vs Harford Tech football

C. Milton Wright

Coach:  Larry Ashman, third season

Last year: 5-4 record

Top returners: Seniors Kyle Ashman (QB), Alex Curry (OL/DL), Harlem Palmer (RB/DB) and Nathan Whetzel (OL/DL); juniors Mike Holcomb (WR/DL), Baxton Marchand (K), Jaxon Simms (RB/LB) and Cameron Stepp (OL/DL).

Newcomers to watch: Seniors Anthony Camarote (WR/DB), Landon Krepps (WR/DB), Hunter Nolan (OL/DL) Brayden Ruby (WR/DB) and Zach Curry (OL/LB); juniors Matt Sampson Jr. RB/LB and Cameron Wheeler Jr. WR/DB; sophomores Anthony Frank (RB/DB) and Adrew Ringgold (RB/LB).

Coach’s outlook: “This will be a rebuilding year for the Mustangs. We graduated 26 seniors with a lot of those players playing both sides of the ball. We are excited for the talent coming up from our JV program. We will be relying on senior QB Kyle Ashman (two-year starter) to lead our offense with his arm and leadership on the field. Our defense looks to create turnovers and get off the field on fourth downs. The coaching staff has been very pleased with the “buy in” from the team so far. The team has worked very hard during both offseason workouts and preseason camp. The coaching staff is very excited to get this season started.”

Edgewood at North Harford High School Football

Edgewood

Coach: Keith Rawlings, fourth season

Last year: 9-2, regional semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Shane Tressler (OL/LB), Quintin Williams (WR/DB), Darius Fleming (RB/LB/DE), TJ Wesson (WR/LB), Jeremiah Smith (WR), Wroto Quiah (WR/LB), Tyrone Williams (H/LB), Malachi Coates (LB), Jesiah Stokes (OL/DT), Terrence Powell (OL/DL) and Miles Putney (OL); juniors Kyion Greenwood (ATH), Jayden Harvin (RB/DB), Charles Brown (WR/DB) and Joey Bynaker (OL).

Newcomers to watch: Seniors Jaydon White (TE/DE), Amir Shaw (WR/DB), Tavon McLean (OL) and Arthur Johnson (OL/DL); juniors Michael Robinson (QB/FS), Tevonte Williams (WR/DE), Jarrod Burton (TE), Mikhail Georges (RB/LB), Khalil Brice (H/LB), Brian Guerrero (DE/QB), Dezekiah Bailey (OL/DL) and Karlito Richardson (DE); sophomore Isaiah Deyo (OL/DE) and freshman Malachi Robinson (WR/LB).

Coach’s outlook: “In 2024 for our team to be successful, we will have to be explosive on offense, control the ball and limit our turnovers. On defense we will look to create turnovers, pressure our opponents, play fast and make sure we tackle well. Our special teams must be solid. We must control field position and limit big plays by our opponents.”

Fallston

Coach: Keith Robinson, fourth season

Last year: 7-5, regional finalist

Top returners: Seniors Evan Alcide (RB/LB), Dom Foster (QB) and Kael Morosko (LB); juniors Oliver Rueckert (DL/Edge), Zach Loewe (WR/DB) and Cole Shea (OL/DL).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Hunter Solwold (TE/H/LS) and Mike Griffin Jr. (QB/ATH).

Coach’s outlook: “Fallston returns eight starters on the defensive side of the ball. Last year’s unit led the county with 19 interceptions total. This unit has to be stout early on, while a young offensive line jells. The offense returns a veteran group of skill players and we expect to very much be in the race for the Susquehanna title.”

C. Milton Wright vs Harford Tech football

Harford Tech

Coach: Brad Hunt, second season

Last year: 7-4, state quarterfinalist

Top returners: Seniors Joshua Baer (LB), Karon Evans (DB/WR), Luke Kelley (DL/OL), Blake Hott (DL/OL), Jamaal Pearl Jr. (RB/LB), Brian Vickers (DL/TE), Benjamin Welzenbach (DL/OL) and Trenton Wrzosek (LB/WR); juniors Maurice Butler (DB/RB), Stephen Kelley II (QB) and Shamari Whitmore (RB/DB).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Aaron Wilson (LB/TE), juniors Brennan Appleby (DB/WR), Robert Crane (LB/RB), Christian Donlick (DB/WR), Bryce Rowland (DB/WR) and Elijah Walker (DL/OL); sophomores Bradley Cloude (DL/OL) and Deacon Milton (LB/TE).

Coach’s outlook: “We are look to continue to be a competitive team in a tough conference.”

Havre de Grace

Coach: Brian Eberhardt, eighth season

Last year: 6-6, state quarterfinalist

Top returners: Seniors Bryce Baur (TE/DE), Joe Spencer (OL/DL) and Brandell Stokes (ATH); juniors Kevin Kinsey (WR/DB) and Miles Miller (WR/S).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “We are a young team looking to build off of some late season success from last year.”

John Carroll

Coach: Mark Modeste, third season

Last year: 7-5, MIAA B Conference finalist

Top returners: Senior Myles Britt (OL/DL), Ryan Kruk (WR/DB), Oliver Bayliss (OL/DE), Jackson Harcarik (Slot/CB) and Mason Bezold (RB/LB).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Cam Durbin (RB), Nate Shutt (LB/RB), Logan Rogers (LB/RB), Buster Barger (WR/S) and Anthony Modeste (QB); sophomores James Westervelt (TE/DE), Parker Miller (LB/TE) and Carson Shoffner (RB/CB).

Coach’s outlook: “We are young but talented. The mix of a few returning senior starter, handful of really strong transfers and a talented group of younger players gives us a chance to create a great year for JC. We feel it will be a process but this is a really hard working group that will turn some heads as the season progresses.”

Joppatowne

Coach: Albert Goode III, third season

Last year: 2-7

Top returners: Senior Ashton Brown (MLB); juniors Xavier Stacker (OL/DL) and Ty’quon Billinger-bey (DB/WR).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Anthony Hall (RB), Sharod Partlow (OL/DL), Elijah Winn (OL/DL), Daniel Hart (DB) and Dartanun Blakney (ATH); and freshman Tyrone Elee (OL/DL).

Coach’s outlook: “Excited to watch this team grow and compete this season.”

North Harford vs Hereford football

North Harford

Coach: Justin Martinek, sixth season

Last year: 5-5

Top returners: Seniors Donald Mullins (RB), Drew Keener (K/DL), Zachary Mullins (WR/LB), Andrew Sharff (OL/DL), Holden Young (RB/DL), Brendan Zang (QB), Nolan Clark (WR/DB) and Peyton Baldwin (WR/DB); juniors Xavier Dunaway (OL/DL) and Luke Bylen (WR/DB).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Matthew Carico (OL/DL); juniors Jason Brady (WR/DB) and Mason Leizear (OL/DL); sophomores Gavin Powell (RB/LB), Ben Liebel (RB/LB) and Jordan Lucas (QB/LB).

Coach’s outlook: “Build off of last year’s improvement and keep moving forward.”

Bohemia Manor vs Patterson Mill football

Patterson Mill

Coach: Dave Huryk, third season

Last year: 9-2, regional semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Luke Plesniak (DL), RJ Wilhelm (RB/DB), Sanel Becirovic (OL/DL), Dylan Myers (OL/DL) and Deitric Jackson (LB); sophomore Brycen Hunter (QB).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Junior Council (WR/RB).

Coach’s outlook: “We have a very tough schedule within the UCBAC and many teams have gotten better this offseason. We hope to remain competitive with the top teams in the UCBAC by slowing down the game and controlling what we can control.”

Harford Tech has made such strides to be in the conversation.

In 2022, the Cobras middled around at 7-7. Then they beat every team on their schedule that wasn’t Bel Air. And this year, Harford Tech returns most of its roster. Meanwhile, the Bobcats lost the Aegis Player of the Year Chris Couch to graduation.

One coach called Harford Tech “a force last year,” insinuating a step forward this fall. Another praised coach Gary Clement’s program, saying, “clearly [they’re] the team that is heavily favored to win the county this year. It is hard to see another team that can compete with them at this point.”

For years, that was how coach’s spoke about Bel Air. Can Harford Tech meet such lofty expectations? The two powerhouses meet first at 5 p.m. on Sept 11, then again at 5 p.m. on Oct. 14.

Perhaps a third meeting is destined for the playoffs.

Here’s a look around the county (Editor’s note: not all teams responded to requests for information):

Aberdeen

Coach: Coach Placzankis, second season

Last year: 1-13

Top returners: Senior Tyler Murdock (M) and junior Louis Lim (L)

Newcomers to watch: Freshmen Bryan Eng (OH) and Sam Boyer (OH).

Coach’s outlook: “I think this team can go further than last year. We’re learning and going to be doing our best to hit the ground running with our first match against Bel Air on the ninth of September.”

Bel Air

Coach: Larry Tsomos, 30th season

Last year: 16-0, Harford County champs

Top returners: Seniors Jack Svoboda (OH) and Andrew DiEdoardo (OH).

Newcomers to watch: Seniors Arvin Dong (DS) and Austin Deyo (OH); juniors Isaac Torres (OH), Kaleb Osei-Boateng (OH), Willie Lam (S), Joey Dinan (MH), Jackson McCray (MH), Gavin Lurz (OH) and Matt Studnicki (OH).

Coach’s outlook: “We have a young team. We look forward to having a good time, learning how to play volleyball and putting together a good game every time.”

C. Milton Wright

Coach: Shawn Duffalo, fourth season

Last year: 12-2, Harford County semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Julian Datesman (O) and Kandin Illigan (L); juniors Brody Hichkad (O), Ben Silcox (O) and Mason Crouch (M).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Nnamdi Ozoilo (M).

Coach’s outlook: “C. Milton finds themselves in an unusual position compared to past years. The team has some very strong returning players, but also has multiple positions which remain uncertain. The team will clearly have a learning curve and could be a very different team at the end of the year compared to the beginning. The big question is which of the newcomers will emerge, and can they fill the shoes that were left behind from last year’s All-County departures?

Fallston

Coach: Bill Stewart, third season

Last year: 7-7

Top returners: Senior Jerry Dinan (L/DS) and Ethan Seilback (L/OH); junior Joey Gross (OH); sophomores Jackson DeNichillo (MH), Shaughn Kelly (M/OH) and Luke Price (S).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Zachary Boczar (OH); sophomores Flynn Callan (OH) and Alex Kegan (OH); freshman Reese Koppelman (L).

Coach’s outlook: “Fallston comes into the season with a young group with less experience than in years past. The Cougars challenge will be to work hard and get better as a team as the year moves forward. I’m looking forward to watching this group develop into a competitive team.”

Harford Tech

Coach: Gary Clement, fourth season

Last year: 13-2, Harford County finalist

Top returners: Seniors Saxon Fuller (OH) and Sam Thomas (L).

Newcomers to watch: Sophomore Philip Kozlowski (S) and Peter Kozlowski (OH).

Coach’s outlook: “The goal this year is to make it to the championship and win it; however, we know how strong our competition always is.”

Havre de Grace

Coach: Bob Reider, fifth season

Last year: 5-9

Top returners: Senior Shane Cardwell (MB) and Hayden Byrns (MB/OH).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “We are a young team looking to develop through the course of the season.”

John Carroll

Coach: Jordan Smith, second season

Last year: 14-6

Top returners: Senior Nikko Sohn (OH)

Newcomers to watch: Sophomore Mason Proctor (L) and Tyler Olivi (S).

Coach’s outlook: “We have some young players and some guys who are new the sport, so we are looking for a lot of growth this year. We have a lot of great kids and athletes, so we are hoping to learn and get better with each practice and game.”

Patterson Mill

Coach: Lucas Daniel, second season

Last year: 7-6, Harford County semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Aidan Mackowiak (OH) and Blaise Jones (OH); junior Cullen Young (RS).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Dylan Lewis (OH) and sophomore Titus Lyttle (S).

Coach’s outlook: “Mechanically, the team is great. Movements and technique are all phenomenal. Mental fortitude has been a weak point for our team, but once we find support for it, we will be a team to beat.”

The Ravens were flagged for three illegal formation penalties on their first seven plays in Thursday night’s NFL season opener in Kansas City, including two against the veteran left tackle. Then late in the second quarter: Stanley again.

“I really feel like they were just trying to make an example and they chose me to be the one to do that,” Stanley said of the officials. “As far as I saw, they weren’t doing it on both sides of the ball and I know that I was lined up in good position the majority of those calls they made.”

A string of penalties overshadowed the start of a highly anticipated AFC championship rematch. What gives?

The formation fouls were reviewed with teams “extensively” before, during and after training camps, according to Football Zebras, an NFL officiating account with more than 35,000 followers on X. According to the post, the NFL’s Competition Committee said the “bowing of the linemen” is an advantage in pass rush situations and needed to be addressed.

Players must have their helmet aligned with at least the belt line of the center to avoid being flagged. Stanley was confident his head was “breaking the center’s butt” and would check the film later to confirm before sending an inquiry to the league office.

NBC color analyst Cris Collinsworth went as far as to note on the opening drive that the officiating crew was calling the penalty “razor-sharp.” Kansas City was not flagged for an illegal formation call Thursday night.

“In practice, we didn’t have that,” Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson said after the 27-20 loss that came down to the final play. “We had refs at practice and throughout camp and stuff like that, we rarely had a call like that. So for that to go down in a game like this, first game of the season, things happen.”

They had conversations with officials in the offseason, Stanley said, specifically at OTAs. And the Ravens’ offensive front received a passing grade on the new rule emphasis.

“It’s their decision, but it didn’t feel consistent with what we were told from the other refs early on,” Stanley said.

Usually a new rule/emphasis that has an adjustment period will go 2 or 3 weeks at most. The reason why it stops being called is that coaches don't have the patience for it to drag out 8 weeks and players figure out how to adjust/adapt https://t.co/fGOM6wVq1R

—  Fᴏᴏᴛʙᴀʟʟ Zᴇʙʀᴀs (@footballzebras) September 6, 2024

There are three main prongs to the official rulebook on illegal formation: teams must have seven or more players on the line, eligible receivers must be on both ends of the line with all the players between them ineligible, and no player may be out of bounds.

All five offensive linemen must be aligned before the play otherwise they’re susceptible to a flag for illegal formation and a 5-yard penalty.

Stanley said there was some dialogue with Thursday night’s officials, led by crew chief Shawn Hochuli. “They just kept saying, ‘You need to move up.’” Stanley said. “And I’m like, ‘How much more do I need to move up?’” He even watched from the sideline as Kansas City’s offensive front lined up similarly. “[It was] making me feel like I’m crazy,” he said.

Teams have gotten leeway in the past. Although maybe not Chiefs right tackle Jawaan Taylor who, in 2023, was flagged for illegal formation three times in two weeks. His 20 infractions worth 140 yards led the NFL by a wide margin.

“It’ll be interesting to see if they call it the same way the whole season,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “I’ll challenge them to call it the same way they called it tonight the whole season. So hopefully they’ll be consistent about that.”

The regulars atop the Chesapeake Division of the Upper Chesapeake Bay Athletic Conference — Bel Air, C. Milton Wright, Patterson Mill and Fallston — graduated players, reloaded with talent and boast experienced coaching staffs that find ways to win. Any of the quartet is capable of making a state playoff run, meaning each matchup with one another comes with a playoff feel. Only time will tell.

Here’s a look around the county (Editor’s note: not all teams responded to requests for information):

Aberdeen

Coach: Robin Landis, first season

Last year: 8-10

Top returners: Seniors Lia Lucas (L) and Jaliyah Lane (S).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “As a new coaching staff, we are super eager to start the season. We have some great new ideas for the players and are focusing on playing hard, having fun, trying our best and leaving it all out on the court.”

Bel Air vs Patterson Mill volleyball

Bel Air

Coach: David Simon, sixth season

Last year: 11-7, state quarterfinalist

Top returners: Seniors Anna Kane (RS/S), Olivia Mannion (OS), Lilia Dziedzic (L), Aubrie Faulkner (MB/RS), Lucy Griger (MB/RS) and Sophie Rivera (RS); juniors Emma Duvall (S), Annalise Lewis (MB/OS), Hayden Pennypacker (OS) and Julie Stillwagon (OS).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Annie Sorrells-Koukounaras (DS), Aya Srisukwattananan (DS) and Claire Bowden (DS); sophomores Gaby Watts (LB) and Mari Brady (S).

Coach’s outlook: “After being the dominant team from 2019 to 2022 and losing one time in the conference, we took six tough losses in the conference last year. This year we have a strong and fun core of 10 returners and five newcomers that are hungry to return to the top of their conference. It won’t be easy but the team comes in refocused with hitting options all over the court. Last year was a wake up call. This year we want to show everyone we are back.”

C. Milton Wright vs Patterson Mill volleyball

C. Milton Wright

Coach: Dave Naugle, sixth season

Last year: 16-3, regional champs

Top returners: Seniors Ana Mioduski (OH), Maddie Duffalo, (OH), Jenna Ritz (S) and Olivia Kobb (OH).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Grace Boseck (MH) and Luna Musto (S); sophomore Isabella Shaw (OH); freshman Elizabeth Costello (MH).

Coach’s outlook: “We have eight players returning this year, including two four-year players, two three-year players and four two-year players. They are a cohesive bunch of girls who’ve been playing with each other for quite a while, including some on the same club team. We have some really good new players joining us, and almost all of our girls are top players within their respective club programs. With the experience and lessons learned from last season, I believe we have a good chance to sit on top of the conference again, defend our regional championship and go further into the state playoffs.”

Edgewood

Coach: Hannah Whitmire, sixth season

Last year: 12-1, regional semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Sofia Ortiz (S) and Zyianna Rowlette (M).

Newcomers to watch: Sophomores Samarra Brodbeck (OH) and Ava Supan (S).

Coach’s outlook: “Our team is looking solid this year. There is a lot of talent on both JV and varsity. We look stronger every day and should have a good season.”

C. Milton Wright vs Fallston volleyball

Fallston

Coach: Christopher Kraft, first year

Last year: 14-3, regional finalist

Top returners: Seniors Sam Ruth (S), Kaylee Lindhorst (OH) and Jadin Woods (M); juniors Mary Pfaff (M) and Natalie Gross (OH); sophomore Sloane Mister (OH).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Alyssa Curry (L) and sophomore Mady Kelly (M).

Coach’s outlook: “We lost seven players from last year, including two all-county players (Kyra Douglass and Grace Pfaff). We are young, so I am expecting to have some bumps in the beginning, but the talent is there and I think by the end of the season we will be a tough match for anyone.”

Harford Tech

Coach: Caitlin Torley, third season

Last year: 10-5, regional semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Mady Bobb (M), Winter Evans (M), Lauren Kunes (RS) and Mahalia Sam-Kpakra (OH).

Newcomers to watch: Freshman Emme DuBose (L).

Coach’s outlook: “I am very excited for these teams, both varsity and JV. These kids are hardworking, dedicated, and have a lot of collective experience.”

Havre de Grace

Coach: Ashley Algard, sixth season

Last year: 6-9, regional semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Kinsey Mentzer (OH), Lillia Dalton (S/RS), Abigail Transparenti (OH/MB) and Claire Bond (L); junior Sophia Holloway (MB/OH); sophomore Sabree Knox (MB).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “This is one of the most athletic teams I’ve ever had the pleasure of coaching. These girls this year, particularly the seniors, have played together since their freshman year and were brought into the game by former JV coach Brooke Foley, who gave them the proper foundation to be at the caliber of volleyball they’re at now. Both programs look healthy, athletic and ready to put in the work to get some wins this year. They are hungry to have a winning season, which makes me excited as their coach.”

John Carroll

Coach: Katie Forsythe, first year

Last year: 6-12, semifinalist

Top returners: Junior Ava pollock (L) and sophomore Mia jovetić (OH).

Newcomers to watch: Sophomore Kaitlin Hudson (OH).

Coach’s outlook: “I am very excited for this first year at John Carroll, we are a young team full of talent. We have been talking about our team culture and the words, confidence, discipline, effort have stuck with us. These are the words we use to remind ourselves how we play the John Carroll way. We have good potential this year to make our opponents work harder against us, as long as we keep our discipline.”

North Harford

Coach: Jacob Birchfield, first season

Last year: 0-13

Top returners: Senior Emily Signor (MH); juniors Jayla Holmes (DS), Alex Manzari (S) and Arlynn Goodman (L).

Newcomers to watch: Sophomore Tara Stone (OH).

Coach’s outlook: “We are a team that has not performed well in the last couple of seasons, going 0-13 without winning a single set last year. We lost our 2 scrimmage games 1-3 for both games against Aberdeen and Edgewood this season, but we won a set for both of those games marking the first set wins in almost 2 years. This is extremely motivating for our team as we try to push for our first win. We have a group of dedicated girls and a JV coach (also assistant to varsity) with a wealth of knowledge who basically speaks volleyball and can help critique girls on minor details.”

Patterson Mill

Coach: Joshua Wagener, first season

Last year: 15-3, state semifinalist

Top returners: Senior Zoe Valan (S); juniors Sophie Lopano (OH) and Harlon Jones (OH/RS); sophomore Anna Elliott (M).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “Patterson Mill High School is a great school with exceptional diverse athletes. We have been volleyball regional champs 2 years in a row which allowed us to win quarterfinals and fall short by 1 set in semi finals. This year we plan on making it to the State finals and Regional champs as we have new strong multi position players and the returns have come back ready for war!”

Perryville

Coach: Matt Borrelli, 11th season

Last year: 13-4, regional finalist

Top returners: Senior Emma Cavall (MH); juniors Taylor McGuirk (S) and Brooke Taylor (OH).

Newcomers to watch: Freshman Peyton Simon (OH).

Coach’s outlook: “Our players are excited for the opportunity to play in the upper division again.  Everyone is working hard and displaying excellent attitudes and work ethic so far during the preseason. We’re looking forward to a fun, exciting and challenging season ahead.”

Fallston, C. Milton Wright, Bel Air, North Harford and Harford Tech all got nods, but the Cobras seem the clear front-runner in the area coming off a Class 1A state championship. It was a special run for a group that made school history. They were a six-seed and downed an undefeated Allegheny team.

“They’ll always be the first group of guys to put a trophy into the school,” coach Michael Dempsey said in November. Now begins the quest to repeat.

Here’s a look around the area. (Editor’s note: not all teams responded to requests for information):

Aberdeen

Coach: Kevin Williams, sixth season

Last year: 6-2-5

Top returners: Seniors Kaleb Holmes (CM) and Jack Morrill (GK); juniors Kian O’Hara (M) and Trevor Zakowski (D).

Newcomers to watch: Sophomores Aymaan Anwar (CM), Tobi Dossou (S) and Will McNicholas (D).

Coach’s outlook: “We are a young team this year with only three seniors. And Frederick Hinder was moved up a grade and is actually a junior. A total of five returning players. I’m very excited for this year’s team. We had a large tryout this year and had cuts for the first time in memory, 26 new players. Considering we only had 28 players come out for the whole program two years ago that’s quite an improvement. Both in numbers and skill. I’ve been saying for years that there are more players at Aberdeen that are not coming out to play. Maybe the guys are starting to see that the coaching staff really does care about them. Finishing with a 500 record would be right about where we should be.”

Bel Air

Coach: Dominic Rose, 31 years

Last year: 10 – 6

Top returners: Seniors Galen Klisiewecz (F), Isaiah Traynahm (F), Cooper Rey (GK) and Blake Stallard (F).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “We should be competitive and challenge for the UCBAC championship.”

C. Milton Wright vs. Bel Air boys soccer

C. Milton Wright

Coach: Eric Riedlbauer, third season

Last year: 12-3-1

Top returners: Senior Axel Lorentzen (F), Connor Scurti (D), Dylan Sander (GK), Brandon Flynn (M) and Brody Walton (M); sophomores Lucas Barker (M) and Ben Mroz (F).

Newcomers to watch: Junior Charlie Kitz (M); sophomores Owen Davis (M/D), Liam Bender (M) and Evan Goss (D).

Coach’s outlook: N/A

Edgewood

Coach: Tim Baldwin, third season

Last year: 2-9-1

Top returners: Senior Dontai Collins Jr. (CDM); juniors Luke Sheffy (CDM) and Sebastian Ayala (AM); sophomores Marlon Davis (S) and Kayden Kuessner (GK).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Nayo Matthews (WB) and Eric Landi (WB); freshman Victor Finely (RB).

Coach’s outlook: “With our first two years of rebuilding a boys soccer program behind us, this year’s juniors Markin Mensah, Viraj Singh, Chase Easson, Jesus Hernandez, Luke Sheffy and Sebastian Ayala are proving to be a force to reckon with on the field. Seeing their growth as players, teammates and young men has been incredible. They possess solid ball control and strategic handling of the field. Coupled with the size and strength of seniors Dontai Collins and Franck Fopa and Sophomore Marlon Davis, this year’s starting lineup will be a force to reckon with.”

Fallston

Coach: Christopher Hoover, 20th season

Last year: 6-9

Top returners: Seniors Jack Friskey (B) and Dominic Witherspoon (F); juniors Ariya Khairghdam (M), Brendan Rey (M) and Lucas Clark (GK).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Connor Detamore (GK), Heath Rhudy (M) and Kieran Devine (M); sophomore Caiden Curry (B).

Coach’s outlook: “This year’s team has quickly established a chemistry that is productive, positive, and enthusiastic. We are looking forward to each match as we are playing to our standard. This year, as in the past, the UCBAC is the conference in which the results matter on the state level. We hope to return to our tradition of excellence, as Fallston will look to lead the UCBAC into the playoffs showing – this is the way.”

Havre de Grace

Coach: Jeff Berthney, ninth season

Last year: 4-7

Top returners: Seniors Will Martin (D), Kamil Waclawski (M) and Cameron Grant (GK); junior Aidan McRoberts; sophomores Gabe Bravo (M) and Aidan McRoberts (M).

Newcomers to watch: Sophomores Caleb Scarbourgh (M), Nate Burton (F) and Landon Bell (M); freshman Larsen Stevens (D).

Coach’s outlook: “We lost nine starters from last year’s team. We will need a complete team effort from all to be competitive this year. We are looking forward to the season. Good luck and safe play to all teams.”

2023 MIAA A Conference soccer championship

John Carroll

Coach: Jimmy Fendryk, 15th season

Last year: 12-2-4, MIAA A Conference finalist

Top returners: Seniors Samko Duracka (M) and Luca D’Allesandro (F); juniors Jacob Gensel (M) and Connor Clarke (D); sophomores Tommy Wysong (M) and Aiden Thiebaud (D).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “Coming off of two successive MIAA A conference championship appearances, we are looking to continue the success we have had over the last five years. We have a blended group of talented upper and lower classmen who are eager to repeat the successes of the past groups.”

North Harford

Coach: Erik Lane, third season

Last year: 9-7, state semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Cole Schultz (M) and Cooper O’Dell (D).

Coach’s outlook: “We’ve got some structural discipline to clean up in game but feel another good season is possible.”

Bohemia Manor vs Patterson Mill boys soccer

Patterson Mill

Coach: Wes Rich, 17th season

Last year: 11-4, regional finalist

Top returners: Seniors Mason Teter (GK), Finn Pantazelos (M) Phil Tolliver (M) and Reza Mousavi (CB); juniors Kai Gibson (F), Jackson Burke (M), David Kim (M), Caleb Zerbe (M) and Grayson McLaughlin (F); sophomore James Chute (CB).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Colin Luddy (OB), Coale Washington (OB), Blake Bonsol (M/D) and Aven Wilson (M).

Coach’s outlook: “We have had an excellent start to the season as we figure out our identity as a team and develop a rotation that fits everyone’s strengths and skill set. Our team chemistry is wonderful and the players seem to really enjoy training, working and playing with one another. We will rely on our five seniors to lead 16 juniors and sophomores in what should be a challenging schedule. The UCBAC should be very strong and deep this season and we hope to compete in every game, challenge for a state title and play with passion for our school and community.”

Perryville

Coach: Larry Sickels, first season

Last year: 7-3-1, state semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Dylan Sayer (M), Paytn Hulbert (D), Logan Shaw (S/M) and Brady Martin (D); junior James Abrams (M).

Newcomers to watch: Juniors Jayden Myers (D) and Trey Givens (M).

Coach’s outlook: “The team has had a lot of success over the last couple of years, and we expect that to continue this year.”

“They don’t stop,” Harbaugh said. “Sometimes they’re kind of calm, nice and fun. Warm and inviting. Other times they get a little rough and the storm comes in and they can be dangerous. That’s kind of a time analogy.”

Before the Ravens travel to Kansas City for their season opener against the Chiefs on Thursday night, Harbaugh waxed poetically about the confluence of juggling football anticipation with grief, having lost two important figures this offseason.

Ravens legend and Super Bowl 47 hero Jacoby Jones died suddenly July 14, days before his 40th birthday. And offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris died early morning Aug. 25, less than two weeks after it was announced that he had been hospitalized for an acute illness.

The losses of both Jones and D’Alessandris have weighed heavily on the organization. Baltimore announced Tuesday that each players’ helmet will feature a commemorative decal on the backside above their number. The tags, Harbaugh said, serve as a reminder about the people they lost and about making the most of life as they move into the season.

For 12 and Joe D pic.twitter.com/3MKIvAyovY

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 3, 2024

“Those waves just keep coming,” Harbaugh said. “You just gotta keep swimming.”

He offered another metaphor for the anticipatory feeling of the next wave: a Week 1 clash with the Chiefs, who are chasing the NFL’s first three-peat. Harbaugh didn’t try to downplay the weight of the game. It’s in prime-time, on the road, against the reigning Super Bowl champs. It’s an immediate litmus test for how Baltimore bounces back from a disappointing end to last season.

But he called the feeling of heading into the opener “tension,” rather than anxiety.

“It’s like a bridge,” he said. “A suspension bridge. Those cables — they have tension to hold that bridge up there and keep everybody safe. There’s tension when you’re lifting weights, there’s tension in your arms [and] in your muscles. There has to be tension. So guys are going to be tense, they’re going to be locked in, they’re going to be focused.”

Madubuike name change

Justin Madubuike slowly tested the waters before officially changing his name with the NFL.

One of the league’s premier defensive lineman recently swapped out his nameplate in the Ravens’ locker room to his Nigerian-given name, Nnamdi Madubuike (pronounced NAHM-dee). He liked the way it looked. Then on Monday, he updated his social media profiles to reflect his preferred name, the one his family used since he was little. And with that, he made it official with the league.

“Coming from Nigerian culture, our parents give us like an American name and give us a Nigerian name,” Madubuike told the team’s website. “When we were growing up as little kids, they addressed us as our Nigerian name. So Nnamdi, I believe in my heart, that’s my real name.”

Part of Madubuike’s inspiration to go by his Nigerian name came from his teammate, Odafe Oweh, who went by Jayson Oweh until he was drafted in 2021.

“Just learning from the older vets and stuff, I keep finding ways to get better every single year. I just started to just keep everything real in terms of my life,” Madubuike said. “After I signed my [four-year, $98 million] contract, I just need to keep doing that. I just felt like when I keep it real, the better player I am, the better man I am.”

Injury report

The Ravens enter their season opener fairly healthy. Only linebacker Adisa Isaac (hamstring) and running back Rasheen Ali (neck) were listed on the team’s first injury report heading into Kansas City.

Isaac missed the start of training camp with two separate offseason hamstring injuries. The third-round draft pick returned for Baltimore’s second preseason game but suffered another similar setback. He was the only missing player from Tuesday’s practice.

Ali missed preseason action with a stinger but his limited participation in practice this week indicates the fifth-round draft pick cleared the league’s concussion protocol.

“It’s not me, I just had to make them believe,” Cataggio said at the time. “A win is a win. It doesn’t matter if it’s ugly or not. And it really was personal. [Perryville] beat us in the season and I believe we were a better team then. Today, we proved it. We’re No. 1 in the state.”

The Warriors lost their star goalkeeper Cassidy Howes to graduation but return much of their starting lineup. That includes junior Sophie Molyneux, who netted the championship’s decisive goal. Their chase to repeat begins with a season-opening match against Perryville, the team they beat for the state crown in November.

Here’s a look around the area. (Editor’s note: not all teams responded to requests for information):

Aberdeen

Coach: Ali Cataggio, first year

Last year: 3-11-1, regional semifinalist

Top returners: Senior Sasha Pazoki (F); juniors Grace Buxton (M) and Ellie Beinkampen (D).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “I am excited to see how we grow as a team on and off the field. Growth is our biggest goal this year, I am hoping that the growth we see these young women will stick with them even after the season.”

Bel Air

Coach: Mike Friskey, fifth season

Last year: 9-4-2, state quarterfinalist

Top returners: Senior Ally Mace (F/M), Alex Busick (M), Dulaney Burrows (M), Ali Reynolds (D) and Sarah Ravadge (D); juniors Alyssa Foote (M) and Ava Tischler (D); sophomores Addison Bullinger (M) and Audrey Lucas (D/M).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Emerson Schiller (GK), junior Anna Tackett (GK) and freshman Savannah Barry (F).

Coach’s outlook: “We have a solid mix of girls but are replacing 10 seniors that were contributors to last year’s team. Early season should be a mix of building and growth as the team looks to maximize its strong potential.”

Sparrows Point vs C. Milton Wright girls soccer semifinal

C. Milton Wright

Coach: Andrew Harrell, fifth season

Last year: 10-4-2, state semifinalist

Top returners: Seniors Delainey Proctor (M) and Ava Lewis (D); junior Mackenzi Milich (D).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Emma Jankowiak (F), junior Sophia Hodges (D) and sophomore Blake Elliott (F).

Coach’s outlook: “Earning a trip to the state semifinals last year was a great experience for our program. We’re looking to build upon that experience, utilize some of our athleticism and returning leadership to never take anything for granted. Every practice and every game is an opportunity to get better and this group takes pride in the hard work needed to be successful.”

Fallston

Coach: Jon Salbeck, third season

Last year: 9-4-0, regional quarterfinalist

Top returners: Seniors Sarah Farally (CM) and Addison Rees (D).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “The team’s biggest strength this year is the leadership. We are returning 17 players from the 2023 season including 11 starters. The senior’s motto this season is “Redefine Your Limits.” This team is very talented. I believe any team can beat another team within the private or public school leagues at any given day. The level of talent that Maryland high school teams bring into the fold each year is incredible. I am going to stress to the girls to take one game at a time and to not look ahead to any other team/game other than our next opponent.”

Harford Tech

Coach: Matt Berg, 20th season

Last year: 3-6-3

Top returners: Seniors Faith Orsini (GK), Emily Swenson (GK), Katie Mang (D), Mari Sanchez (D), Ava Patino (D), Allison Putkisto (D), Nina Humpf (D) and Delaney Klaus (D); Caroline Korczak (A), Danielle Korczak (A) and Mia Mickle (A); juniors Ashley Shelton (M) and Ryleigh Moore (M).

Newcomers to watch: Sophomores Caroline Hendricks (M), Kiera Hill (M), Lauryn Meisel (M), Riley Mullenax (M) and Janelle Reyes (M); freshmen Abby Downes (M) and Brooke Pollack (M).

Coach’s outlook: “We have 11 seniors, but also have a lot of youth. If we can get going on all cylinders, we should contend with anyone. So far, the seniors are proving to be great leaders and the players have impressed with their approach to training and practices, which will be key moving forward throughout the season.”

Perryville vs Havre de Grace, 1A girls soccer state final

Havre de Grace

Coach: Lea Cataggio, second season

Last year: Class 1A state champions

Top returners: Senior Madeline Yost (DM) and Lila Vincenti (F); junior Sophie Molyneux (CM), Jules Baker (D) and Sarah Weitzel (D).

Newcomers to watch: Senior Addy Osborne (D) and freshman Jocelyn Baker (M).

John Carroll

Coach: Hayley Howe, 11th season

Last year: 10-6-3

Top returners: Seniors Mylana Stevens (F/M) and Addy Carter (M); juniors Ava Porrovicchio (M), Cali Friedel (M), Emma Fuchs (M) and Pieper McCue (F); sophomores Clara Madore (M), Olivia D’Alessandro (M) and Bella Ottone (F).

Newcomers to watch: Ella Jantz (D).

Coach’s outlook: “Since we are returning 20 players from last year’s team, we’re able to easily pick up where we left off. This group will continue to fine tune our team chemistry on the field and raise our level of play from last season.”

North Harford

Coach: Aidan Riordon, second season

Last year: 3-8-1, regional finalist

Top returners: Senior Sydney Stoneback (M); juniors Savannah Picha (GK) and Zoe Shum (D).

Newcomers to watch: Junior Gabby Stuchinski (D), sophomore Ella Morgan (F) and freshman Lucy Barndt (M).

Coach’s outlook: “We have an extremely tough schedule this year with the usual challenging county games, but then also Perry Hall and Hereford, who are always some of the strongest teams in Baltimore County. We are still a young team this year trying to learn and implement our style of play, but most importantly, we need to create more scoring opportunities this year to be successful. Most of our goals against last year came from set pieces, so we need to do a better job of avoiding fouls near our goal and defending corners. If we can do that and score two to three goals a game, then I see us finishing with an above .500 winning percentage.”

Perryville

Coach: Chris Tome, first season

Last year: 13-4, state finalist

Top returners: Seniors Mackenzie Lynch (CB), Macy Forrest (S), Justina Radcliff (CB) and Sarah Cantrell (GK); sophomores Sadie Tome (CM) and Carsyn Hulbert (CM).

Newcomers to watch: Freshmen Ashlyn Anderson (M) and Charlotte Simpers (M).

Coach’s outlook: “I am excited at the potential after working with the girls for the past couple of weeks. The team as a whole has worked hard in the offseason to become very technically proficient. We will be able to play an attractive brand of soccer. That, joined with having personnel that are clinical finishers, should bring positive results. I feel that we will be competitive in all of our matches this season.”

Patterson Mill

Coach: Mike Parker, 17th season

Last year: 6-8, regional finalist

Top returners: Seniors Abbie Wysong (D) and Jalynn Mayfield-Rice (D).

Newcomers to watch: N/A

Coach’s outlook: “Harford County always has a very competitive schedule for girls soccer. We are looking forward to being in the mix for one of the top teams.”

The Orioles’ ace set up a 13-3 Labor Day win conceding only two runs (one earned) with four strikeouts in five innings against the now 108-loss Chicago White Sox. Baltimore (80-59) temporarily moves into a first-place tie atop the American League East with the New York Yankees, who play the Texas Rangers on Monday night.

Burnes’ first inning of work looked like he might not have been fully ready to turn the page from August to September.

Three of Chicago’s first four batters reached base safely on a few pitches that Burnes claimed, “I don’t think I could have thrown any better.” He pressed his glove to his hip watching a ball sail over him into the outfield. The pitcher’s head tilted sideways as if he were searching for answers in front of Camden Yards’ 35,906 attendees.

Burnes, now escaping his interminable August, was true to form from there.

He struck out Zach DeLoach to end the first. With a runner on third, he set down back-to-back batters on strikes to escape the second. Key double plays twice left Chicago runners stranded. He generated nine swing and misses and eight total outs via ground out.

“He scuffled through those first couple,” manager Brandon Hyde said. “He pitched out of traffic there a little bit in the second. But I thought he found his groove, and good to see him really have a nice last three innings.”

Added Burnes: “I’ve done this long enough I know that when I’m getting weak contact and making good pitches that things are gonna turn in my favor.”

August had been some of the worst collective pitching of Burnes’ career.

In the final month of summer, he recorded two wins over five starts with a 7.36 ERA. The last time he endured a single month so torrid? It was July 2019 when Burnes, then a reliever, recorded a 12.46 ERA in 4 1/3 innings across six games.

Burnes lived up to his former Cy Young Award winner billing from his opening day start through the end of July with a 2.47 ERA. Hyde chalked the digression up to “games or innings that got away from him that we didn’t see in the first half.”

Burnes took a “step in the right direction,” in his words, with his last outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Labor Day and the start of September had all the bones of a bounce-back start. For a depleted Orioles rotation, it’s just what the group needed.

“They managed to put the ball in play and found holes, really wasn’t any balls hit hard tonight,” Burnes said after his first win since Aug. 4, “so definitely some positive things and keep moving forward.”

Baltimore’s offense did plenty to pull its weight against MLB’s cellar dwellers. Their 13 runs and 18 hits each tied for the second most this season. Monday was its best offensive outing since a 17-5 win over the Yankees on June 20.

That started with Gunnar Henderson’s first leadoff home run since June 16 – a month before the All-Star break. A welcome sight for Orioles fans as the franchise shortstop ripped a fastball 397 feet to center field.

With home run No. 34, Henderson tied Cal Ripken Jr. (1991) and Miguel Tejada (2004) for the most in a single season by an Orioles shortstop. It was his ninth leadoff blast, second most in the majors, trailing only Philadelphia’s Kyle Schwarber.

Anthony Santander’s RBI single in the third tied the game at 2. Austin Slater doubled in the third for Baltimore’s first lead, part of his three-hit, three-RBI day that snapped an 0-for-15 skid.

The Orioles’ advantage ballooned with a six-run sixth inning. Cedric Mullins doubled a sharp liner to right field and Slater chased him home. Third baseman Emmanuel Rivera found a gap in right field for his second triple of the season and first since the Orioles picked him up off waivers Aug. 21.

The clubhouse takeaways from such a dynamite offensive showing — even if against Chicago — were clear. Burnes talked about how one game can spark team-wide success. “Hopefully this is the game that carries us,” he said. Slater doubled down: “I think that’s the offense we believe that we are, and it was fun to see it come out today.”

Prior to Monday’s first pitch, Hyde lamented how tough Baltimore’s recent stretch had been: piling injuries, inconsistent pitching and slumping offense. “Right now,” he said, “we’re doing best with the roster we have.”

Monday evening was a glimpse at Baltimore’s best with what they have.

“This second half we haven’t had many games like this,” Hyde said postgame. “You start seeing your numbers improve a little bit on the board, you get a couple hits and you come to the park a little bit differently the next day.”

Around the horn

•  The Orioles have selected the contract of utility player Nick Maton from Triple-A Norfolk and DFA’d catcher David Bañuelos, the club announced.
• Third baseman Ramón Urías landed on the injured list Sunday with a right ankle sprain. Of his potential to return, Hyde said, “I don’t know. He’s walking around on crutches right now. So, I don’t know how long that’s gonna be. A sprained ankle could be two to four weeks. Who knows?”
• Other injury updates: Jacob Webb will likely pitch in at least one more rehab game before returning, Dean Kremer may play catch Tuesday to test out swollen forearm, and Ryan Mountcastle  is feeling better but he hasn’t swung a bat yet and Hyde has “no idea” on his timeline to return.

White Sox at Orioles

Tuesday, 6:35 p.m.

TV: MASN2

Radio: 98 Rock FM/HD2 97.9, WBAL NewsRadio AM/FM