Ravens coordinator Declan Doyle adopts emotionless approach to play-calling

Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Declan Doyle has outlined a play-calling philosophy centred on the elimination of emotion to preserve clear judgement during games. In his first year with the team, Doyle stated that the coaching staff must remain focused and avoid celebrating until the game clock reaches zero.

Doyle, who is 30 years old, explained his mindset in a media conference following the Ravens' 41-23 victory over the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1. He noted that the goal is to remove anything that could cloud the staff's judgement regarding what happens next on the field.

"As soon as we score, you immediately flip to (putting) foot on the gas," Doyle said. "Everybody on the staff. We got to get our guys back right now. Don’t stop. You gotta keep going, and you don’t smile until it (game clock) hits zeroes, and then celebrate it real quickly, and then you got to get on to the next team fast."

The approach appears to have resonated with quarterback Lamar Jackson, who publicly praised Doyle's play-calling after the win. The two-time MVP urged his coordinator to "keep it going," signalling strong support for the new tactical direction.

Doyle admitted he is trying to emulate the standards set by former Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson, with whom he worked last season. He believes that being level-headed helps the team focus solely on the opponent rather than internal distractions.

"That’s the way I think that you have to be. You’re never trying to fight like a two-front war," Doyle added. "We’re fighting an opponent on the field. The more emotional I get, the more people have to deal with me, and all of our energy should be towards fighting the opponent."

Doyle, who also had stints with the New Orleans Saints and the Denver Broncos, will look to maintain this momentum as the Ravens prepare for their next fixture on Sunday.