GOVERNOR O’MALLEY AND LT. GOVERNOR BROWN CONGRATULATE RAVENS AND REDSKINS ON PLAYOFF BERTHS

Governor and Lt. Governor enter into wager

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor O’Malley and Lt. Governor Brown today congratulated the Baltimore Ravens and the Washington Redskins for making the playoffs. Maryland is the only state to host two NFL teams in the playoffs this year.

In honor of both teams making the playoffs, the Governor and the Lt. Governor have entered into a wager. If the Ravens make it farther in the playoffs than the Redskins, Lt. Governor Brown has to make an appearance in a Ravens jersey at the Board of Public Works Meeting on February 6th, shortly after the Super Bowl. If the Redskins move on farther than the Ravens, Governor O’Malley has to wear a Redskins jersey during the meeting.

“It is remarkable for our region and a major economic boost that we are the only state that is home to two NFL teams in the playoffs this year,” said Governor O’Malley, a Ravens fan. “Both teams have given Marylanders hope and inspired fans all across the nation. We wish the Ravens and the Redskins well...at least until the ‘Beltway’ Super Bowl.”

"Maryland is making history this Sunday as our Redskins and Ravens make their first simultaneous playoff appearances ever,” said Lt. Governor Brown, a Redskins fan. “Although my first allegiance lies with the Skins, I take pride in the fact that we have two amazing franchises here in Maryland, with great heart and talented leaders, like Robert Griffin, III and Ray Rice who set an excellent example for our young people on and off the field. I wish both teams the very best of luck and I'm looking forward to seeing Governor O'Malley draped in the Burgundy and Gold."

In honor of the Ravens and Ray Lewis’ last season on the field, the Governor’s web site has been transformed to Purple, and to celebrate the Redskins and their leading rookie quarterback Robert Griffin, III, the Lt. Governor’s web site has been draped in Burgundy and Gold.

The AFC North Division Champion Ravens are in the playoffs for the fifth straight year, and the Redskins have won their first division title since 1999. Both teams will host home playoff games this weekend.