KEY MATCHUPS:
Jaguars TE Marcedes Lewis vs. Ravens FS Ed Reed
Lewis won't win many one-one-one battles with Reed, but when he does find himself open in man-coverage situations, he's got to catch the ball. Lewis has struggled with drops lately because of a tendency to try to run before actually making the catch. Against a playmaker like Reed, a drop can quickly turn into an interception for a touchdown.
Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Ravens LBs
Because of Baltimore's blitz-heavy scheme, Jones-Drew will find himself in one-on-one situations against the Ravens linebackers. QB David Garrard and Jones-Drew need to make the Ravens pay every chance they get. Jones-Drew possesses 4.3 speed, which presents a mismatch against Baltimore's LBs. Jones-Drew likely won't hurt this defense on passes in the flat, but longer developing crossing routes — if Garrard is given ample time — would force the Ravens LBs to cover more ground, which increases the likelihood of Jones-Drew getting out into space.
Ravens TE Todd Heap vs. Jaguars SS Gerald Sensabaugh
When the Jags blitz, Sensabaugh will wind up covering Heap man-to-man on most occasions. While Sensabaugh is athletic enough to handle the responsibility, Heap's size advantage could make covering him a tough assignment, especially in red-zone situations. When the Jags play Cover 2 shell, look for Flacco to try to take advantage of Heap out in space by hitting him quickly down the seam.
Dienstag, 30. Dezember 2008
Matchup BAL - JAX
The Ravens can clinch an AFC wild-card playoff berth with the victory. The game is at home and the Ravens should get an emotional lift from the crowd. The Ravens were picked to finish at the bottom of the AFC North by most preseason experts, but they find themselves a game away from the playoffs.
Jacksonville will play hard in the game. The Jaguars are coached by former Ravens linebackers coach Jack Del Rio. He'd like nothing better to knock his former team off at home and out of the playoffs. He will have the Jaguars motivated to play.
This could be the last home game for several Ravens veterans including linebackers Bart Scott, Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs as well as cornerback Samari Rolle and defensive end Trevor Pryce. All three of the linebackers' contracts will expire at the end of the season. This group has played a lot of good football together. It's unlikely the Ravens will resign all three.
Jaguars Keys For Success
1. Continue aggressive play calling.
Baltimore's defense usually dictates the flow of a game, but the Jags can't afford to let that happen. So Jacksonville needs to continue the aggressive offensive attacks it has used the past two weeks. A key component of that is using QB David Garrard as a dual threat.
2. Limit mistakes in the secondary.
The Jags have destroyed solid outings by the secondary this season by making one or two mistakes that have cost them ball games. The most glaring miscues seem to come from second-year FS Reggie Nelson, who tends to bite on play action and pump fakes, causing the club to allow what Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio calls "gimme" plays.
3. Confuse Flacco.
Against dangerous passing attacks the last two weeks, the Jaguars have done a solid job of disguising their coverages. The club can disrupt the pre-snap reads of rookie Flacco by disguising their coverages. Jacksonville doesn't pose much of a threat blitzing, but confusing looks on the back end could be the key to success for the Jags on defense.
Ravens Keys For Success
1. Line 'em up.
The Ravens have to shut down Jacksonville's running game and make the Jaguars one-dimensional. Look for the Ravens to put seven defensive players near the line of scrimmage and force the Jaguars to throw. If Jacksonville gets behind early, this could be a rout.
2. Go, go, go McGahee.
The Ravens have to get running back Willis McGahee into the game. The Ravens are OK with Le'Ron McClain as the starter, but he can't get outside. McGahee gives the Ravens a legitimate outside scoring threat, and opens up a defense.
3. Special teams a big factor.
The Ravens have to play well on special teams. When the Ravens win the field position game, they are virtually unbeatable because of their defense. The coverage units have to perform well, and their return specialists (Yamon Figurs) can't be careless with the ball. Jacksonville doesn't have much of an offense, so field position will be a major factor.
The Bottom Line
The Ravens have something to play for, and the Jaguars have nothing. The Jaguars have been hit hard by injuries — especially on the offensive line. If the Ravens get a lead, and keep the crowd in the game, this game could be over by halftime. The Ravens are like sharks in the water, and they smell blood and a playoff berth. It will be a long day for Jacksonville.
Jacksonville will play hard in the game. The Jaguars are coached by former Ravens linebackers coach Jack Del Rio. He'd like nothing better to knock his former team off at home and out of the playoffs. He will have the Jaguars motivated to play.
This could be the last home game for several Ravens veterans including linebackers Bart Scott, Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs as well as cornerback Samari Rolle and defensive end Trevor Pryce. All three of the linebackers' contracts will expire at the end of the season. This group has played a lot of good football together. It's unlikely the Ravens will resign all three.
Jaguars Keys For Success
1. Continue aggressive play calling.
Baltimore's defense usually dictates the flow of a game, but the Jags can't afford to let that happen. So Jacksonville needs to continue the aggressive offensive attacks it has used the past two weeks. A key component of that is using QB David Garrard as a dual threat.
2. Limit mistakes in the secondary.
The Jags have destroyed solid outings by the secondary this season by making one or two mistakes that have cost them ball games. The most glaring miscues seem to come from second-year FS Reggie Nelson, who tends to bite on play action and pump fakes, causing the club to allow what Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio calls "gimme" plays.
3. Confuse Flacco.
Against dangerous passing attacks the last two weeks, the Jaguars have done a solid job of disguising their coverages. The club can disrupt the pre-snap reads of rookie Flacco by disguising their coverages. Jacksonville doesn't pose much of a threat blitzing, but confusing looks on the back end could be the key to success for the Jags on defense.
Ravens Keys For Success
1. Line 'em up.
The Ravens have to shut down Jacksonville's running game and make the Jaguars one-dimensional. Look for the Ravens to put seven defensive players near the line of scrimmage and force the Jaguars to throw. If Jacksonville gets behind early, this could be a rout.
2. Go, go, go McGahee.
The Ravens have to get running back Willis McGahee into the game. The Ravens are OK with Le'Ron McClain as the starter, but he can't get outside. McGahee gives the Ravens a legitimate outside scoring threat, and opens up a defense.
3. Special teams a big factor.
The Ravens have to play well on special teams. When the Ravens win the field position game, they are virtually unbeatable because of their defense. The coverage units have to perform well, and their return specialists (Yamon Figurs) can't be careless with the ball. Jacksonville doesn't have much of an offense, so field position will be a major factor.
The Bottom Line
The Ravens have something to play for, and the Jaguars have nothing. The Jaguars have been hit hard by injuries — especially on the offensive line. If the Ravens get a lead, and keep the crowd in the game, this game could be over by halftime. The Ravens are like sharks in the water, and they smell blood and a playoff berth. It will be a long day for Jacksonville.
Headlines November - December
Plenty of work to go around in Ravens' backfield
We know this much: The Ravens will run the ball, and perhaps more than any other team in the league. Baltimore is on pace to attempt a league-best 610 carries. But whom will be the Ravens’ starting back going forward? The way we hear it, the starter designation might be one that doesn’t carry much meaning in Baltimore, considering RBs Willis McGahee, Ray Rice and Le’Ron McClain all will get work. “We’re a three-headed monster, as you guys put it all the time, and we’re going to play all three guys,” Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said. McGahee led the way in Week 10, getting 25 of the team’s 40 rushes. Rice, who started for the injured McGahee in Week Nine and rushed for 154 yards, will continue to be a big part of the offense, especially with the Ravens using the shotgun formation more. Rice’s success running out of the shotgun is no small reason for the Ravens’ offense being as intriguing as it has been in recent memory.
Ravens NT Ngata proving he belongs among elite at his position
Oh, the defensive tackles that could be playing on the AFC side in the Pro Bowl. The Titans’ Albert Haynesworth looks to be a surefire selection. The Jets’ Kris Jenkins has recaptured his dominant form with his new club. So, too, has the Browns’ Shaun Rogers, whose work might go unappreciated because of Cleveland’s disappointing season.
On the other end of the spectrum from Rogers is Ravens NT Haloti Ngata, who has been overlooked for his work on a star-studded Baltimore defense. But that is quickly changing.
Ngata is simply playing too well for that to happen any longer.
The 6-4, 345-pound Ngata has played exceptionally in his third NFL season. In addition to being a force vs. the run, he’s having a remarkable season defending the pass. Through Week 11, Ngata has defended five passes and intercepted two. In Baltimore’s 41-14 win over Houston on Nov. 9, Ngata did something you seldom see from a defensive tackle: He dropped into coverage, leaped to deflect a Sage Rosenfels pass with both hands, tracked down the ball and caught it in the endzone, ending a Houston scoring opportunity.
How strong and quick is Ngata? The Ravens occasionally use him on offense, where he has made appearances in the team’s goal-line package, as well as on special teams.
The way we hear it, there are some around the Ravens who believe Ngata has been playing this well the past two years, but only now is he starting to get widespread recognition.
His teammates are doing their share in that regard. Ravens RILB Bart Scott recently ended an interview with ESPN’s “Pardon the Interruption” by singing the praises of Ngata unprompted. “Make no bones about it, the best defensive lineman in the game right now is Haloti Ngata, and I dare you guys to put on the film and compare him to anybody you got in the league,” Scott said.
“He’s a phenomenon,” Ravens LILB Ray Lewis told Baltimore reporters recently of Ngata. “… He’s playing the game at a very, very high level. It’s surprising when you do see it. I’ve been around football a long time, but to see that guy’s gifts athletically and what he does to destroy offenses, it’s really special — definitely when you’re playing behind him.”
Health, play of Ravens' O-line bears watching down the stretch
The Ravens’ offensive line collectively has had a good season to date. Entering Week 12, Baltimore led the NFL in time of possession, and that, in part, had something to do with the play of the O-line, which has led the way for a grinding, persistent running attack and has protected QB Joe Flacco fairly well. But the line could be put to the test in the weeks to come, the way we hear it, with injuries to OLT Jared Gaither (shoulder), ORT Willie Anderson (ankle) and OT-OG Adam Terry (ankle) all causing those players to miss at least one game because of their ailments. The promising Gaither, who allowed only one sack in his first 10 games, did not start the Week 12 game vs. Philadelphia. Terry, who suffered the ankle injury in Week 11, started for Gaither at left tackle vs. Philadelphia on Nov. 20. Anderson, who sat out in Week 11, returned to the lineup vs. the Eagles.
Washington acquisition looks like a savvy one for Ravens
The Ravens might have averted potential disaster this season and beyond by acquiring CB Fabian Washington from Oakland on the second day of the '08 draft. CB Chris McAlister, who carries a salary-cap number of $10.9 million in 2009, will be 32 in June, and he's on injured reserve with a knee injury. The Ravens' other starting cornerback, Samari Rolle, has missed time in each of the past two seasons with injuries and carries a $6.3 million salary-cap number in '09. Rolle will be 33 next August. Washington has missed time because of neck and shoulder injuries, and he was suspended for the Week One game vs. Cincinnati after violating the NFL's personal-conduct policy, but he has started every game he has played this season, and he has given the secondary a lift with McAlister out of the lineup. Washington, who intercepted his first pass of the season in Week 12, is signed through the '09 season, which buys the Ravens time as they decide what the CB depth chart will look like in the seasons to come.
Clayton thriving in suddenly powerful Ravens offense
There is much to like about the Ravens’ offense right now: the improvement of rookie QB Joe Flacco, the robust, persistent running game, the intriguing, effective mix of old-and-new along the offensive line.
And don’t overlook the re-emergence of WR Mark Clayton as one of the club’s top playmakers.
Clayton’s production picked up significantly in November. He caught 15 passes for 377 yards and touchdowns of 47, 53 and 70 yards. He also threw a 32-yard TD pass off a reverse in a rout of Cincinnati in Week 13.
“Plays like that, they’re exciting,” Clayton said of his one-play stint at quarterback. “They bring excitement. Everybody enjoys the wrinkles, if you will.”
And the Ravens, who averaged 37 points in their four wins in November, are more capable of catching defenses off-guard than in past seasons. The creative play-calling of offensive coordinator Cam Cameron has played a major role in this regard. Even early in the season, when Flacco’s on-the-job training may have limited Cameron’s options somewhat, he still struck with the occasional out-of-left-field play call that paid dividends, such as the double reverse Clayton took for a touchdown in the season opener vs. the Bengals.
Clayton praised Cameron’s offensive philosophy as well as how he relates to his players.
“There’s no limit to a Cam Cameron offense, man,” Clayton told PFW. “We’re always growing. There is always something we can learn. We enjoy that every day. We enjoy that as professionals, because there is something we want to grow toward.”
When Clayton is at his most explosive, the Ravens’ offense is at its most dangerous, and the effect can be seen in the won-loss column. Two seasons ago, Clayton caught 67 passes for 939 yards and five touchdowns for a Ravens club that ran away with the AFC North. However, he could not replicate that effort in 2007; slowed by ankle and toe injuries, Clayton averaged only 11.1 yards per catch and did not score a touchdown.
Things are much different this season for both Clayton and the revamped Ravens offense, one that’s feeling awfully good about itself these days.
“The thing that has grown with us collectively is our confidence,” Clayton said.
Pryce an integral part of Ravens' defense
The way we hear it, Ravens DRT Trevor Pryce quietly is having a strong season. Throughout his three seasons in Baltimore, the Ravens’ defense has been at its best when he’s in the lineup, and the ’08 campaign has been no different. The 6-5, 290-pound Pryce has very good pass-rushing ability and strength at the point of attack, necessary skills for an aggressive Ravens defense that uses an odd front. Pryce, who’s two seasons removed from a 13-sack season, has 4½ sacks through 13 games. At 33, he’s still regarded as one of the better defensive linemen in the AFC, and his ability to start every game a season after missing 11 games because of injury has given the defensive line a lift. A source close to the club says Pryce, who’s signed through 2010 and carries a salary-cap number of $6.25 million in ’09, is likely to be back with the club next season.
Ravens FB McClain's surprising season keeps getting better
How big a Pro Bowl longshot was FB Le’Ron McClain entering this season? Well, let’s put it this way: Lorenzo Neal, who joined the Ravens only in August, was probably a better bet, on name recognition alone, to make it to Hawaii than McClain. After all, Neal had been to four Pro Bowls, and McClain was coming off an eight-carry rookie campaign in 2007.
By now, you know how things played out for McClain. He has emerged as the Ravens’ leading rusher and has received the majority of the carries in recent weeks. And last week, he was named a Pro Bowl starter.
McClain’s rise has come as Willis McGahee’s role in the Ravens’ offense has waned. McGahee has been limited by injuries all season, and for much of the campaign, he has looked little like the back who himself made the Pro Bowl in ’07. McGahee did not make much of an impact in the pivotal Week 15 loss to Pittsburgh, carrying only six times for 18 yards. Meanwhile, McClain carried 23 times for 87 yards. However, both backs came up big in the Ravens’ 33-24 win at Dallas on Dec. 20, with McClain gaining 139 yards on 22 carries and McGahee rolling up 108 yards on eight carries. What’s more, both broke long TD runs in the final minutes, with McGahee scoring from 77 yards out and McClain stunning Dallas with an 82-yard score.
The Ravens could easily bring back their top backs in 2009. Second-year RB Ray Rice, a well-regarded prospect, is signed through 2011. McClain, who’s on his first contract, is signed through the ’09 season. Also, McGahee’s salary-cap number is a manageable $3.1 million in ’09. The Ravens have to decide whether to pay him a $1.5 million option bonus in March but figure to do so. Overall, McGahee is signed through 2013, but it’s unlikely he would play out his entire contract in its current form.
The Ravens’ big RB decision could come after the ’09 season, as McGahee’s salary-cap number increases to a little more than $6 million in 2010, and McClain could enter restricted free agency. McClain’s agent, Todd France, told PFW that he has yet to discuss a new contract with the Ravens and indicated any talks, were they to happen, might come in the offseason.
Ravens WR Mason's toughness, production keys for Baltimore
Ravens WR Derrick Mason has played through a dislocated left shoulder in the second half of the season, but he has continued to be the primary option in the passing game. "I don't know if I've ever seen a tougher football player in 25 years of coaching," Ravens head coach John Harbaugh remarked in the week leading up to the season finale with Jacksonville. Mason, who will be 35 in January, remains a tough matchup for opposing quarterbacks thanks to his quickness and savvy. Signed through next season, Mason is likely to be the Ravens' top receiver in the '09 campaign short of Mark Clayton taking a major step forward. Clayton is also a free agent after the '09 season, so the Ravens will have some decisions to make about the future of the position. But it is clear Mason is still a very effective player in Cam Cameron's offense.
We know this much: The Ravens will run the ball, and perhaps more than any other team in the league. Baltimore is on pace to attempt a league-best 610 carries. But whom will be the Ravens’ starting back going forward? The way we hear it, the starter designation might be one that doesn’t carry much meaning in Baltimore, considering RBs Willis McGahee, Ray Rice and Le’Ron McClain all will get work. “We’re a three-headed monster, as you guys put it all the time, and we’re going to play all three guys,” Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said. McGahee led the way in Week 10, getting 25 of the team’s 40 rushes. Rice, who started for the injured McGahee in Week Nine and rushed for 154 yards, will continue to be a big part of the offense, especially with the Ravens using the shotgun formation more. Rice’s success running out of the shotgun is no small reason for the Ravens’ offense being as intriguing as it has been in recent memory.
Ravens NT Ngata proving he belongs among elite at his position
Oh, the defensive tackles that could be playing on the AFC side in the Pro Bowl. The Titans’ Albert Haynesworth looks to be a surefire selection. The Jets’ Kris Jenkins has recaptured his dominant form with his new club. So, too, has the Browns’ Shaun Rogers, whose work might go unappreciated because of Cleveland’s disappointing season.
On the other end of the spectrum from Rogers is Ravens NT Haloti Ngata, who has been overlooked for his work on a star-studded Baltimore defense. But that is quickly changing.
Ngata is simply playing too well for that to happen any longer.
The 6-4, 345-pound Ngata has played exceptionally in his third NFL season. In addition to being a force vs. the run, he’s having a remarkable season defending the pass. Through Week 11, Ngata has defended five passes and intercepted two. In Baltimore’s 41-14 win over Houston on Nov. 9, Ngata did something you seldom see from a defensive tackle: He dropped into coverage, leaped to deflect a Sage Rosenfels pass with both hands, tracked down the ball and caught it in the endzone, ending a Houston scoring opportunity.
How strong and quick is Ngata? The Ravens occasionally use him on offense, where he has made appearances in the team’s goal-line package, as well as on special teams.
The way we hear it, there are some around the Ravens who believe Ngata has been playing this well the past two years, but only now is he starting to get widespread recognition.
His teammates are doing their share in that regard. Ravens RILB Bart Scott recently ended an interview with ESPN’s “Pardon the Interruption” by singing the praises of Ngata unprompted. “Make no bones about it, the best defensive lineman in the game right now is Haloti Ngata, and I dare you guys to put on the film and compare him to anybody you got in the league,” Scott said.
“He’s a phenomenon,” Ravens LILB Ray Lewis told Baltimore reporters recently of Ngata. “… He’s playing the game at a very, very high level. It’s surprising when you do see it. I’ve been around football a long time, but to see that guy’s gifts athletically and what he does to destroy offenses, it’s really special — definitely when you’re playing behind him.”
Health, play of Ravens' O-line bears watching down the stretch
The Ravens’ offensive line collectively has had a good season to date. Entering Week 12, Baltimore led the NFL in time of possession, and that, in part, had something to do with the play of the O-line, which has led the way for a grinding, persistent running attack and has protected QB Joe Flacco fairly well. But the line could be put to the test in the weeks to come, the way we hear it, with injuries to OLT Jared Gaither (shoulder), ORT Willie Anderson (ankle) and OT-OG Adam Terry (ankle) all causing those players to miss at least one game because of their ailments. The promising Gaither, who allowed only one sack in his first 10 games, did not start the Week 12 game vs. Philadelphia. Terry, who suffered the ankle injury in Week 11, started for Gaither at left tackle vs. Philadelphia on Nov. 20. Anderson, who sat out in Week 11, returned to the lineup vs. the Eagles.
Washington acquisition looks like a savvy one for Ravens
The Ravens might have averted potential disaster this season and beyond by acquiring CB Fabian Washington from Oakland on the second day of the '08 draft. CB Chris McAlister, who carries a salary-cap number of $10.9 million in 2009, will be 32 in June, and he's on injured reserve with a knee injury. The Ravens' other starting cornerback, Samari Rolle, has missed time in each of the past two seasons with injuries and carries a $6.3 million salary-cap number in '09. Rolle will be 33 next August. Washington has missed time because of neck and shoulder injuries, and he was suspended for the Week One game vs. Cincinnati after violating the NFL's personal-conduct policy, but he has started every game he has played this season, and he has given the secondary a lift with McAlister out of the lineup. Washington, who intercepted his first pass of the season in Week 12, is signed through the '09 season, which buys the Ravens time as they decide what the CB depth chart will look like in the seasons to come.
Clayton thriving in suddenly powerful Ravens offense
There is much to like about the Ravens’ offense right now: the improvement of rookie QB Joe Flacco, the robust, persistent running game, the intriguing, effective mix of old-and-new along the offensive line.
And don’t overlook the re-emergence of WR Mark Clayton as one of the club’s top playmakers.
Clayton’s production picked up significantly in November. He caught 15 passes for 377 yards and touchdowns of 47, 53 and 70 yards. He also threw a 32-yard TD pass off a reverse in a rout of Cincinnati in Week 13.
“Plays like that, they’re exciting,” Clayton said of his one-play stint at quarterback. “They bring excitement. Everybody enjoys the wrinkles, if you will.”
And the Ravens, who averaged 37 points in their four wins in November, are more capable of catching defenses off-guard than in past seasons. The creative play-calling of offensive coordinator Cam Cameron has played a major role in this regard. Even early in the season, when Flacco’s on-the-job training may have limited Cameron’s options somewhat, he still struck with the occasional out-of-left-field play call that paid dividends, such as the double reverse Clayton took for a touchdown in the season opener vs. the Bengals.
Clayton praised Cameron’s offensive philosophy as well as how he relates to his players.
“There’s no limit to a Cam Cameron offense, man,” Clayton told PFW. “We’re always growing. There is always something we can learn. We enjoy that every day. We enjoy that as professionals, because there is something we want to grow toward.”
When Clayton is at his most explosive, the Ravens’ offense is at its most dangerous, and the effect can be seen in the won-loss column. Two seasons ago, Clayton caught 67 passes for 939 yards and five touchdowns for a Ravens club that ran away with the AFC North. However, he could not replicate that effort in 2007; slowed by ankle and toe injuries, Clayton averaged only 11.1 yards per catch and did not score a touchdown.
Things are much different this season for both Clayton and the revamped Ravens offense, one that’s feeling awfully good about itself these days.
“The thing that has grown with us collectively is our confidence,” Clayton said.
Pryce an integral part of Ravens' defense
The way we hear it, Ravens DRT Trevor Pryce quietly is having a strong season. Throughout his three seasons in Baltimore, the Ravens’ defense has been at its best when he’s in the lineup, and the ’08 campaign has been no different. The 6-5, 290-pound Pryce has very good pass-rushing ability and strength at the point of attack, necessary skills for an aggressive Ravens defense that uses an odd front. Pryce, who’s two seasons removed from a 13-sack season, has 4½ sacks through 13 games. At 33, he’s still regarded as one of the better defensive linemen in the AFC, and his ability to start every game a season after missing 11 games because of injury has given the defensive line a lift. A source close to the club says Pryce, who’s signed through 2010 and carries a salary-cap number of $6.25 million in ’09, is likely to be back with the club next season.
Ravens FB McClain's surprising season keeps getting better
How big a Pro Bowl longshot was FB Le’Ron McClain entering this season? Well, let’s put it this way: Lorenzo Neal, who joined the Ravens only in August, was probably a better bet, on name recognition alone, to make it to Hawaii than McClain. After all, Neal had been to four Pro Bowls, and McClain was coming off an eight-carry rookie campaign in 2007.
By now, you know how things played out for McClain. He has emerged as the Ravens’ leading rusher and has received the majority of the carries in recent weeks. And last week, he was named a Pro Bowl starter.
McClain’s rise has come as Willis McGahee’s role in the Ravens’ offense has waned. McGahee has been limited by injuries all season, and for much of the campaign, he has looked little like the back who himself made the Pro Bowl in ’07. McGahee did not make much of an impact in the pivotal Week 15 loss to Pittsburgh, carrying only six times for 18 yards. Meanwhile, McClain carried 23 times for 87 yards. However, both backs came up big in the Ravens’ 33-24 win at Dallas on Dec. 20, with McClain gaining 139 yards on 22 carries and McGahee rolling up 108 yards on eight carries. What’s more, both broke long TD runs in the final minutes, with McGahee scoring from 77 yards out and McClain stunning Dallas with an 82-yard score.
The Ravens could easily bring back their top backs in 2009. Second-year RB Ray Rice, a well-regarded prospect, is signed through 2011. McClain, who’s on his first contract, is signed through the ’09 season. Also, McGahee’s salary-cap number is a manageable $3.1 million in ’09. The Ravens have to decide whether to pay him a $1.5 million option bonus in March but figure to do so. Overall, McGahee is signed through 2013, but it’s unlikely he would play out his entire contract in its current form.
The Ravens’ big RB decision could come after the ’09 season, as McGahee’s salary-cap number increases to a little more than $6 million in 2010, and McClain could enter restricted free agency. McClain’s agent, Todd France, told PFW that he has yet to discuss a new contract with the Ravens and indicated any talks, were they to happen, might come in the offseason.
Ravens WR Mason's toughness, production keys for Baltimore
Ravens WR Derrick Mason has played through a dislocated left shoulder in the second half of the season, but he has continued to be the primary option in the passing game. "I don't know if I've ever seen a tougher football player in 25 years of coaching," Ravens head coach John Harbaugh remarked in the week leading up to the season finale with Jacksonville. Mason, who will be 35 in January, remains a tough matchup for opposing quarterbacks thanks to his quickness and savvy. Signed through next season, Mason is likely to be the Ravens' top receiver in the '09 campaign short of Mark Clayton taking a major step forward. Clayton is also a free agent after the '09 season, so the Ravens will have some decisions to make about the future of the position. But it is clear Mason is still a very effective player in Cam Cameron's offense.
Headlines September - October
Flacco's future on Baltimore's mind
The Ravens love rookie QB Joe Flacco’s poise, something they believe he has in ample reserve for a first-year player. And they love his skill set. But they are wary of the hard lessons he might endure after being thrust into the starting lineup because of a season-ending shoulder injury to Kyle Boller and a tonsil infection that kept Troy Smith off the active roster in Week One. The way we hear it, it will not be a surprise if the Ravens bench Flacco if he struggles once Smith is back in the fold. Flacco did get off to a winning start, though, helping lead the Ravens to a Week One win over the Bengals. He completed 15-of-29 passes for 129 yards and didn’t turn the ball over. He also ran 38 yards for a TD. In short, the Ravens have Flacco’s long-term future in mind as well as the present. In the meantime, Flacco is being asked to run an offensive package that isn’t quite as expansive as the one the Ravens would run with Boller or Smith.
McClain's emergence gives Ravens' RB depth a big lift
Le’Ron McClain carried 37 times in four seasons at Alabama, a total befitting a fullback best known for his blocking. When the Ravens picked him in the fourth round of the 2007 draft, the role of lead blocker was the one he was pegged to play. But that role has been altered, thanks to his success carrying the ball, and it has significantly bolstered the Ravens’ RB depth.
McClain was one of the feel-good stories of Week One. He carried 19 times for 86 yards as Baltimore beat favored Cincinnati, 17-10. The Ravens employed a run-first attack throughout to both protect rookie QB Joe Flacco and wear down the Bengals’ defense, and the strategy paid dividends.
With RB Willis McGahee ready to return to the lineup after not playing in the opener as he recovered from arthroscopic knee surgery, we hear the Ravens’ grind-it-out attack is likely to become a staple. Head coach John Harbaugh indicated McGahee, McClain and rookie Ray Rice can all expect to see work.
“With all the backs, I think it’s always going to be a situational ballgame,” Harbaugh told Baltimore reporters. Each of [the running backs] has a certain skill set that you try to put in that situation where that skill set can thrive based on the game plan and game situation.”
Interestingly enough, we’re hearing that McGahee’s return might have the biggest effect on Rice’s workload, not that of McClain. Rice is a smaller, shiftier back than McClain, but he boasts similar skills to McGahee, Baltimore’s usual starter. The 6-0, 260-pound McClain isn’t going to run by many defenders, but he will run over them, which makes him an asset in short-yardage situations.
So how did McClain get into the mix for carries? We hear RB coach Wilbert Montgomery, the former Eagles star, was among those who took note of McClain’s run skills. McClain also had no qualms volunteering for the job, and he has no shortage of confidence.
That’s how the Ravens found a rather unlikely solution to a potentially big problem.
Anderson likely to push Terry at right tackle for Ravens
The way we hear it, it’s more a matter of when, not if, Willie Anderson will push Adam Terry for the starting role at right tackle. Were he to lose his job, Terry would likely serve as the top backup at both right and left tackle. We're told the Ravens are unlikely to push young OLT Jared Gaither out of the starting lineup unless they're given a compelling reason to do so. Both Terry and Gaither helped their cases with solid play in Week One, not allowing a sack and helping the Ravens rush for 229 yards vs. the Bengals. In Week Three, the Ravens allowed only one sack and the team rushed for 151 yards. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron has indicated that all three tackles could be given playing time. “We’ve got three tackles that we’ve got a lot of confidence in,” Cameron said. “There could be some scenarios where Adam is in there at left and Willie goes to right. With Jared Gaither, it’s kind of a three-man situation.”
Relatively good health for defense helps Ravens get off to fast start
The Ravens' defense has endured a few injuries this season, most notably the neck injury suffered by SS Dawan Landry in Week Three and the knee injury that has sidelined DT Kelly Gregg. But their replacements, S Jim Leonhard and DT Justin Bannan, have played well. (Bannan's solid play is especially important, given that head coach John Harbaugh has said Gregg's injury status will be determined on a weekly basis after Week Four.) What's more, even if CB Samari Rolle's shoulder injury affects his play, the Ravens have a capable backup in Fabian Washington. Contrast this situation to the 2007 campaign, when a wave of injuries to the secondary compromised the defense. At present, this is a deeper and healthier group, which is allowing defensive coordinator Rex Ryan to turn up the pressure. Ryan's complicated system demands cohesion, and the Ravens have had that early this season, as evidenced by the defense's No. 1 ranking entering Week Four.
Ravens likely to get TE Heap more involved in passing game
As surprising as it was to see TE Todd Heap catch only seven passes in Baltimore's first four games, it would be an even bigger surprise if he weren’t a bigger part of the offense in the weeks to come. Several factors contributed to Heap’s lack of catches early. He frequently has been utilized as a blocker as the Ravens try to protect QB Joe Flacco. Also, Flacco frequently has targeted WR Derrick Mason — who has 12 more catches than any other Ravens pass catcher — while spreading the ball around otherwise. That said, it’s likely Flacco will look for Heap more in the weeks to come. He has had three seasons of 68 catches or more in his NFL career, remains an important part of the offense, and the Ravens don’t want him to lose sight of that. “Sure, we want him catching more balls, and we’re going to keep working on it to make sure that happens,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said recently.
Stover's slow start doesn't entail a loss of job security
Ravens PK Matt Stover missed three field goals in his first four games of the 2008 season, more than he missed in the entire 2006 season and as many as he missed in all of the '04 campaign. In short, the Ravens aren't used to seeing Stover struggle. This has led to speculation about whether Stover, 40, had finally hit the downside of his career after kicking so well in his mid- and late-thirties. But the way we hear it, Stover's job is unlikely to be in any immediate danger; a fixture with the franchise ever since it moved from Cleveland, Stover, a free agent at season's end, will get the benefit of the doubt. What's more, his leg strength is not a concern, either, given that he was, entering Week Six, averaging more than 63 yards per kickoff for the third consecutive season. In short, if Stover can recapture the form that has made him one of the NFL's most consistent kickers over the years, he won't have many job security concerns now and in the immediate futire — especially when you consider how some coaches won't trust any kickers but veteran ones.
Loss of Yanda a potentially big blow to Ravens' offensive line
In the offseason, the Ravens moved Marshal Yanda from right tackle to right guard, and the shift served to help player and team. Yanda was faring well at his new spot on the Ravens’ line, which was exceeding expectations after looking to be one of the club’s weak spots entering the 2008 campaign. But Yanda suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week Six, and replacing him will not be easy, the way we hear it. ORT Adam Terry is a candidate to move into Yanda’s spot for the rest of the season, but Terry has been bothered by a knee injury. This means the Ravens had to turn to Chris Chester, a 2006 second-round pick recently moved to tight end after failing to impress at center or guard, last week. But Chester at least has starting experience at right guard, having started three games there in ’06 and four in ’07. The majority of Terry’s pro starts have been at tackle, and he would be learning on the job at guard.
Ravens CB McAlister's demotion unlikely to be long-term one
At his best, CB Chris McAlister is the Ravens’ top cornerback, and he played an important role in Baltimore’s surprise start, intercepting three passes in his first five games. But he barely played in Week Seven at Miami, and he missed the club’s Week Eight game vs. Oakland with a knee injury. In one of the surprises of the Ravens’ season to date, McAlister did not start at Miami. Head coach John Harbaugh was vague as to the reasons Frank Walker replaced McAlister in Miami, but did say it wasn’t an injury that had kept McAlister on the bench. The Ravens’ head coach also brushed aside the notion that McAlister was in the “dog house.” We hear the decision to sit McAlister for much of the Miami game appeared to be multi-faceted, with McAlister’s struggles at Indianapolis in Week Six one factor. It might not have helped McAlister’s case that he violated the team’s pregame dress code before the Dolphins’ game.
Ravens' opponents have to prepare for Flacco and Smith
By unveiling a package of plays for QB Troy Smith, the Ravens accomplished a couple of objectives. One, opponents have to prepare for the possibility that Smith, who saw his first on-field action in the Week Eight win vs. Oakland, will get a handful of snaps per game. (Indeed, Smith also got some playing time Week Nine at Cleveland.) Smith is more mobile than starter Joe Flacco, but he also has a strong arm, and offensive coordinator Cam Cameron can employ him in a variety of ways. Using Smith off the bench — and keeping him in the game plan — has the added benefit of keeping the Ravens’ backup quarterback sharp. Smith was likely to win the starting job if not for a tonsil infection that knocked him out of the final two preseason games and drained his strength. Now he’s back, and again an important part of the offense — a win-win prospect for team and player.
The Ravens love rookie QB Joe Flacco’s poise, something they believe he has in ample reserve for a first-year player. And they love his skill set. But they are wary of the hard lessons he might endure after being thrust into the starting lineup because of a season-ending shoulder injury to Kyle Boller and a tonsil infection that kept Troy Smith off the active roster in Week One. The way we hear it, it will not be a surprise if the Ravens bench Flacco if he struggles once Smith is back in the fold. Flacco did get off to a winning start, though, helping lead the Ravens to a Week One win over the Bengals. He completed 15-of-29 passes for 129 yards and didn’t turn the ball over. He also ran 38 yards for a TD. In short, the Ravens have Flacco’s long-term future in mind as well as the present. In the meantime, Flacco is being asked to run an offensive package that isn’t quite as expansive as the one the Ravens would run with Boller or Smith.
McClain's emergence gives Ravens' RB depth a big lift
Le’Ron McClain carried 37 times in four seasons at Alabama, a total befitting a fullback best known for his blocking. When the Ravens picked him in the fourth round of the 2007 draft, the role of lead blocker was the one he was pegged to play. But that role has been altered, thanks to his success carrying the ball, and it has significantly bolstered the Ravens’ RB depth.
McClain was one of the feel-good stories of Week One. He carried 19 times for 86 yards as Baltimore beat favored Cincinnati, 17-10. The Ravens employed a run-first attack throughout to both protect rookie QB Joe Flacco and wear down the Bengals’ defense, and the strategy paid dividends.
With RB Willis McGahee ready to return to the lineup after not playing in the opener as he recovered from arthroscopic knee surgery, we hear the Ravens’ grind-it-out attack is likely to become a staple. Head coach John Harbaugh indicated McGahee, McClain and rookie Ray Rice can all expect to see work.
“With all the backs, I think it’s always going to be a situational ballgame,” Harbaugh told Baltimore reporters. Each of [the running backs] has a certain skill set that you try to put in that situation where that skill set can thrive based on the game plan and game situation.”
Interestingly enough, we’re hearing that McGahee’s return might have the biggest effect on Rice’s workload, not that of McClain. Rice is a smaller, shiftier back than McClain, but he boasts similar skills to McGahee, Baltimore’s usual starter. The 6-0, 260-pound McClain isn’t going to run by many defenders, but he will run over them, which makes him an asset in short-yardage situations.
So how did McClain get into the mix for carries? We hear RB coach Wilbert Montgomery, the former Eagles star, was among those who took note of McClain’s run skills. McClain also had no qualms volunteering for the job, and he has no shortage of confidence.
That’s how the Ravens found a rather unlikely solution to a potentially big problem.
Anderson likely to push Terry at right tackle for Ravens
The way we hear it, it’s more a matter of when, not if, Willie Anderson will push Adam Terry for the starting role at right tackle. Were he to lose his job, Terry would likely serve as the top backup at both right and left tackle. We're told the Ravens are unlikely to push young OLT Jared Gaither out of the starting lineup unless they're given a compelling reason to do so. Both Terry and Gaither helped their cases with solid play in Week One, not allowing a sack and helping the Ravens rush for 229 yards vs. the Bengals. In Week Three, the Ravens allowed only one sack and the team rushed for 151 yards. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron has indicated that all three tackles could be given playing time. “We’ve got three tackles that we’ve got a lot of confidence in,” Cameron said. “There could be some scenarios where Adam is in there at left and Willie goes to right. With Jared Gaither, it’s kind of a three-man situation.”
Relatively good health for defense helps Ravens get off to fast start
The Ravens' defense has endured a few injuries this season, most notably the neck injury suffered by SS Dawan Landry in Week Three and the knee injury that has sidelined DT Kelly Gregg. But their replacements, S Jim Leonhard and DT Justin Bannan, have played well. (Bannan's solid play is especially important, given that head coach John Harbaugh has said Gregg's injury status will be determined on a weekly basis after Week Four.) What's more, even if CB Samari Rolle's shoulder injury affects his play, the Ravens have a capable backup in Fabian Washington. Contrast this situation to the 2007 campaign, when a wave of injuries to the secondary compromised the defense. At present, this is a deeper and healthier group, which is allowing defensive coordinator Rex Ryan to turn up the pressure. Ryan's complicated system demands cohesion, and the Ravens have had that early this season, as evidenced by the defense's No. 1 ranking entering Week Four.
Ravens likely to get TE Heap more involved in passing game
As surprising as it was to see TE Todd Heap catch only seven passes in Baltimore's first four games, it would be an even bigger surprise if he weren’t a bigger part of the offense in the weeks to come. Several factors contributed to Heap’s lack of catches early. He frequently has been utilized as a blocker as the Ravens try to protect QB Joe Flacco. Also, Flacco frequently has targeted WR Derrick Mason — who has 12 more catches than any other Ravens pass catcher — while spreading the ball around otherwise. That said, it’s likely Flacco will look for Heap more in the weeks to come. He has had three seasons of 68 catches or more in his NFL career, remains an important part of the offense, and the Ravens don’t want him to lose sight of that. “Sure, we want him catching more balls, and we’re going to keep working on it to make sure that happens,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said recently.
Stover's slow start doesn't entail a loss of job security
Ravens PK Matt Stover missed three field goals in his first four games of the 2008 season, more than he missed in the entire 2006 season and as many as he missed in all of the '04 campaign. In short, the Ravens aren't used to seeing Stover struggle. This has led to speculation about whether Stover, 40, had finally hit the downside of his career after kicking so well in his mid- and late-thirties. But the way we hear it, Stover's job is unlikely to be in any immediate danger; a fixture with the franchise ever since it moved from Cleveland, Stover, a free agent at season's end, will get the benefit of the doubt. What's more, his leg strength is not a concern, either, given that he was, entering Week Six, averaging more than 63 yards per kickoff for the third consecutive season. In short, if Stover can recapture the form that has made him one of the NFL's most consistent kickers over the years, he won't have many job security concerns now and in the immediate futire — especially when you consider how some coaches won't trust any kickers but veteran ones.
Loss of Yanda a potentially big blow to Ravens' offensive line
In the offseason, the Ravens moved Marshal Yanda from right tackle to right guard, and the shift served to help player and team. Yanda was faring well at his new spot on the Ravens’ line, which was exceeding expectations after looking to be one of the club’s weak spots entering the 2008 campaign. But Yanda suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week Six, and replacing him will not be easy, the way we hear it. ORT Adam Terry is a candidate to move into Yanda’s spot for the rest of the season, but Terry has been bothered by a knee injury. This means the Ravens had to turn to Chris Chester, a 2006 second-round pick recently moved to tight end after failing to impress at center or guard, last week. But Chester at least has starting experience at right guard, having started three games there in ’06 and four in ’07. The majority of Terry’s pro starts have been at tackle, and he would be learning on the job at guard.
Ravens CB McAlister's demotion unlikely to be long-term one
At his best, CB Chris McAlister is the Ravens’ top cornerback, and he played an important role in Baltimore’s surprise start, intercepting three passes in his first five games. But he barely played in Week Seven at Miami, and he missed the club’s Week Eight game vs. Oakland with a knee injury. In one of the surprises of the Ravens’ season to date, McAlister did not start at Miami. Head coach John Harbaugh was vague as to the reasons Frank Walker replaced McAlister in Miami, but did say it wasn’t an injury that had kept McAlister on the bench. The Ravens’ head coach also brushed aside the notion that McAlister was in the “dog house.” We hear the decision to sit McAlister for much of the Miami game appeared to be multi-faceted, with McAlister’s struggles at Indianapolis in Week Six one factor. It might not have helped McAlister’s case that he violated the team’s pregame dress code before the Dolphins’ game.
Ravens' opponents have to prepare for Flacco and Smith
By unveiling a package of plays for QB Troy Smith, the Ravens accomplished a couple of objectives. One, opponents have to prepare for the possibility that Smith, who saw his first on-field action in the Week Eight win vs. Oakland, will get a handful of snaps per game. (Indeed, Smith also got some playing time Week Nine at Cleveland.) Smith is more mobile than starter Joe Flacco, but he also has a strong arm, and offensive coordinator Cam Cameron can employ him in a variety of ways. Using Smith off the bench — and keeping him in the game plan — has the added benefit of keeping the Ravens’ backup quarterback sharp. Smith was likely to win the starting job if not for a tonsil infection that knocked him out of the final two preseason games and drained his strength. Now he’s back, and again an important part of the offense — a win-win prospect for team and player.
Headlines July - August
If Ravens' defense can stay healthy, ILB Scott could be in for a big year
Two seasons ago, the Ravens' Bart Scott had an exceptional season for an inside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Scott notched 103 tackles and a remarkable 9½ sacks — a take-down total that would be the envy of many 4-3 defensive ends. Scott also defended seven passes and made two interceptions. But Scott wasn't quite as productive in 2007, making 10 fewer tackles and notching only one sack. The way we hear it, Scott could bounce back this season if the Ravens' defense, which struggled with injuries last season, can stay intact for much of the campaign like it did in '06. Scott was asked to drop into coverage more last season as the Ravens' defense took a more conservative approach in response to the personnel losses. Scott is an effective blitzer and also has shown an ability to put his hand on the ground and rush the passer off the edge in some instances, too, and another season in which all of his talents are on full display likely would enhance his market value when his contract expires after this season.
Ravens could have their work cut out for them next offseason
The Ravens' inability to reach a long-term contract with OLB-DE Terrell Suggs, the recipient of the team's franchise tag, means they cannot sign him to a new contract until after the season. Whether they will be able to do so is another issue altogether. Suggs is one of three high-profile Ravens defenders whose contracts expire at season's end. ILBs Ray Lewis and Bart Scott will also be in need of new deals, and getting all three players back in the fold will take a considerable financial commitment by the Ravens. Suggs, who is only 25 and a legitimate pass-rush threat in a league where such talents are hard to come by, would likely draw the most demand — and command the highest price — on the open market. The Ravens have the option of giving Suggs the franchise tag once again next year, but it's more likely that both sides would try to strike a long-term, salary-cap-friendly deal that would give Suggs a hefty up-front bonus that could be prorated over the life of the contract.
Ravens may be coming back around to Boller
Kyle Boller's efficient play early in training camp has enhanced his chance to win the Ravens' starting QB job, the way we hear it. Boller outplayed second-year pro Troy Smith and rookie Joe Flacco in the early stages of camp, largely by limiting his mistakes. Smith's play, according to a source close to the club, was up-and-down early in camp, with Flacco faring the worst of the quarterbacks who are competing to start. Of course, much can change in Baltimore's four preseason games, and the quarterbacks' performances in those games will be given significant weight by the coaching staff. But there is little doubt Boller has helped his stock by limiting his errors early on.
McGahee expected to be ready for opener — and bulk of the carries will still be his
The way we hear it, it is not out of the realm of possibilities that Ravens RB Willis McGahee gets a little work in Baltimore’s preseason finale vs. Atlanta on Aug. 28. If that doesn’t happen, McGahee, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery last week, likely is to be ready for the Week One game vs. Cincinnati on Sept. 7. McGahee has had a tough training camp; the word from Baltimore was that he didn’t look all that impressive before leaving the lineup with the injury. But there’s no doubt McGahee will be the Ravens’ featured back this season. Rookie RB Ray Rice, who rushed eight times for 77 yards and a TD vs. the Vikings, will get plenty of work throughout the rest of the preseason, but he’ll be McGahee’s primary backup come the regular season, with McGahee likely getting around 20 carries per game.
Ravens QB Smith on pace to start in Week One
Although the Ravens still have yet to name a starting quarterback for Week One, sources in Baltimore say Troy Smith is locked in as their choice, barring a complete collapse in the remaining preseason action. The Ravens really don’t have any great options at quarterback, between Smith, Kyle Boller and rookie Joe Flacco, but Smith appears to be the best game manager at this point. We hear the team likes Smith’s mobility and the way he tucks the ball and runs if need be. It’s very likely that whomever is under center will face a great deal of pressure off the edge if starting OTs Adam Terry (ankle), who recently returned to practice, and Jared Gaither (ankle) are slowed by their injuries, and Smith is the best option to handle that pass rush. Smith’s biggest problem appears to be his lack of accuracy, especially when he’s throwing to the flat, where his passes tend to sail. Sources say it would take an injury or a nightmarish performance from Smith for Boller to get another shot at starting.
Boller injury could blow up Ravens' plan at quarterback
It’s unclear whether Ravens QB Kyle Boller’s shoulder injury is a torn or partially torn labrum, but regardless, he’ll be out for two weeks minimum and perhaps the entire season, the way we hear it. Baltimore coaches and medical staff will wait a few weeks to see how Boller is healing after he undergoes another set of tests on Friday and then make a judgment on whether or not he should have season-ending surgery. Although Boller lost the starting QB battle to Troy Smith in the preseason and doesn’t appear to be in the team’s long-term plans, sources say the Ravens do view his injury as a major setback for their club. Baltimore was hoping to keep rookie QB Joe Flacco on the bench for most, if not all, of this season. It will be much more difficult to accomplish that if Boller is lost for the season, leaving Flacco as the primary backup to Smith, who is also on unsure footing after missing time with tonsillitis. The team signed Casey Bramlet on Aug. 27 but released him on Saturday. Baltimore is expected to add another veteran quarterback.
Two seasons ago, the Ravens' Bart Scott had an exceptional season for an inside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Scott notched 103 tackles and a remarkable 9½ sacks — a take-down total that would be the envy of many 4-3 defensive ends. Scott also defended seven passes and made two interceptions. But Scott wasn't quite as productive in 2007, making 10 fewer tackles and notching only one sack. The way we hear it, Scott could bounce back this season if the Ravens' defense, which struggled with injuries last season, can stay intact for much of the campaign like it did in '06. Scott was asked to drop into coverage more last season as the Ravens' defense took a more conservative approach in response to the personnel losses. Scott is an effective blitzer and also has shown an ability to put his hand on the ground and rush the passer off the edge in some instances, too, and another season in which all of his talents are on full display likely would enhance his market value when his contract expires after this season.
Ravens could have their work cut out for them next offseason
The Ravens' inability to reach a long-term contract with OLB-DE Terrell Suggs, the recipient of the team's franchise tag, means they cannot sign him to a new contract until after the season. Whether they will be able to do so is another issue altogether. Suggs is one of three high-profile Ravens defenders whose contracts expire at season's end. ILBs Ray Lewis and Bart Scott will also be in need of new deals, and getting all three players back in the fold will take a considerable financial commitment by the Ravens. Suggs, who is only 25 and a legitimate pass-rush threat in a league where such talents are hard to come by, would likely draw the most demand — and command the highest price — on the open market. The Ravens have the option of giving Suggs the franchise tag once again next year, but it's more likely that both sides would try to strike a long-term, salary-cap-friendly deal that would give Suggs a hefty up-front bonus that could be prorated over the life of the contract.
Ravens may be coming back around to Boller
Kyle Boller's efficient play early in training camp has enhanced his chance to win the Ravens' starting QB job, the way we hear it. Boller outplayed second-year pro Troy Smith and rookie Joe Flacco in the early stages of camp, largely by limiting his mistakes. Smith's play, according to a source close to the club, was up-and-down early in camp, with Flacco faring the worst of the quarterbacks who are competing to start. Of course, much can change in Baltimore's four preseason games, and the quarterbacks' performances in those games will be given significant weight by the coaching staff. But there is little doubt Boller has helped his stock by limiting his errors early on.
McGahee expected to be ready for opener — and bulk of the carries will still be his
The way we hear it, it is not out of the realm of possibilities that Ravens RB Willis McGahee gets a little work in Baltimore’s preseason finale vs. Atlanta on Aug. 28. If that doesn’t happen, McGahee, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery last week, likely is to be ready for the Week One game vs. Cincinnati on Sept. 7. McGahee has had a tough training camp; the word from Baltimore was that he didn’t look all that impressive before leaving the lineup with the injury. But there’s no doubt McGahee will be the Ravens’ featured back this season. Rookie RB Ray Rice, who rushed eight times for 77 yards and a TD vs. the Vikings, will get plenty of work throughout the rest of the preseason, but he’ll be McGahee’s primary backup come the regular season, with McGahee likely getting around 20 carries per game.
Ravens QB Smith on pace to start in Week One
Although the Ravens still have yet to name a starting quarterback for Week One, sources in Baltimore say Troy Smith is locked in as their choice, barring a complete collapse in the remaining preseason action. The Ravens really don’t have any great options at quarterback, between Smith, Kyle Boller and rookie Joe Flacco, but Smith appears to be the best game manager at this point. We hear the team likes Smith’s mobility and the way he tucks the ball and runs if need be. It’s very likely that whomever is under center will face a great deal of pressure off the edge if starting OTs Adam Terry (ankle), who recently returned to practice, and Jared Gaither (ankle) are slowed by their injuries, and Smith is the best option to handle that pass rush. Smith’s biggest problem appears to be his lack of accuracy, especially when he’s throwing to the flat, where his passes tend to sail. Sources say it would take an injury or a nightmarish performance from Smith for Boller to get another shot at starting.
Boller injury could blow up Ravens' plan at quarterback
It’s unclear whether Ravens QB Kyle Boller’s shoulder injury is a torn or partially torn labrum, but regardless, he’ll be out for two weeks minimum and perhaps the entire season, the way we hear it. Baltimore coaches and medical staff will wait a few weeks to see how Boller is healing after he undergoes another set of tests on Friday and then make a judgment on whether or not he should have season-ending surgery. Although Boller lost the starting QB battle to Troy Smith in the preseason and doesn’t appear to be in the team’s long-term plans, sources say the Ravens do view his injury as a major setback for their club. Baltimore was hoping to keep rookie QB Joe Flacco on the bench for most, if not all, of this season. It will be much more difficult to accomplish that if Boller is lost for the season, leaving Flacco as the primary backup to Smith, who is also on unsure footing after missing time with tonsillitis. The team signed Casey Bramlet on Aug. 27 but released him on Saturday. Baltimore is expected to add another veteran quarterback.
Headlines April - June
Wilcox looking to rebound after injury-plagued season
Last season was a frustrating one for Ravens TE Daniel Wilcox. He missed 11 games with a variety of injuries, the most serious being a left toe that required offseason surgery. With a new coaching staff in place, and a new offense being installed, the 31-year-old Wilcox is working to get back onto the field. “I’m looking to get into the best shape of my life,” Wilcox told PFW this week. Wilcox hasn’t resumed running, but he has been cleared to start some physical activity, and he is expected to be back at full strength about a month before training camp. When healthy, Wilcox gives the Baltimore offense another pass-catching threat to a cast that already includes former Pro Bowler Todd Heap. Wilcox has met with new head coach John Harbaugh on several occasions and has come away impressed with the former Eagles assistant. “He seems like the type of guy who is about business,” Wilcox said. “And business equals winning.”
Ravens have an eye on running back in the draft
Word from Baltimore is to expect the Ravens to use at least one of their nine draft picks on a running back. The team’s depth at this position is shaky, and new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron will make RB Willis McGahee the centerpiece of the offense. Hence, a stable of backs capable of spelling McGahee isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. The top backup, Musa Smith, played all 16 games in 2007 for only the first time in five NFL seasons and has only one career start to his credit. The next most likely option off the bench, P.J. Daniels, has never played a regular-season down in two NFL seasons. He was a healthy scratch for all 16 games in ’06 and missed all of last season with a hamstring injury. Third-year RB Cory Ross racked up six yards a carry in limited action last season, but he is only 5-foot-6. The Ravens released veteran backup Mike Anderson earlier in the offseason. McGahee has been relatively healthy since missing the entire ’03 season recovering from a serious knee injury suffered in his final collegiate game. He had 337 touches (294 carries, 43 receptions) last season, the second-highest total of his career. McGahee missed most of Week 16 and all of the season finale in ’07 after suffering a rib injury at Seattle.
McNair's retirement leaves Ravens with limited options at quarterback
In February, general manager Ozzie Newsome said Steve McNair would be the starting quarterback. “We have no one else,” Newsome said, pointedly. Now, a little more than a week before the draft, McNair has elected to retire, leaving backups Kyle Boller and Troy Smith to compete for the job. On the surface, Boller would appear to have the edge on winning the job; he has 42 career starts compared to Smith’s two. However, head coach John Harbaugh said Thursday that the plans for the position have yet to be finalized. “We’ve talked about that many times — it’s competitive,” Harbaugh said Thursday. “We lost our incumbent, and now it’s wide open.” Newsome indicated McNair’s retirement would not alter the team’s draft plans. The Ravens select eighth overall and have nine draft picks. However, only five of those picks — Nos. 8, 38, 106, 173 and 215 — are tradable; the others are compensatory selections. That is worth noting as speculation about the Ravens’ interest in Boston College QB Matt Ryan grows. Ryan is expected to be selected before the Ravens are on the clock at No. 8. Newsome also hinted that the Ravens might not direct their attention to adding a veteran quarterback until after the draft. That said, the Ravens have pulled off a Draft Day trade for a passer before, trading two second-day picks for the Rams’ Tony Banks in 1999. Newsome was then the Ravens’ director of player personnel.
Loss of Sypniewski impacts offense, puts stress on TE depth
The potential season-ending knee injury suffered by TE Quinn Sypniewski hurts the team’s depth at a position riddled by injuries a season ago, and it could have a material effect on the offense. Sypniewski, an above-average blocker, developed into an effective target on short passes a season ago, catching 34 passes for 246 yards and starting nine games. With Sypniewski out, the Ravens may be forced to rely more heavily on veteran Daniel Wilcox, whose ’07 season was cut short by a variety of injuries. Wilcox is recovering from offseason toe surgery but is expected to be ready for training camp. Wilcox is a better receiver than blocker. The same can be said for starter Todd Heap, who is back at full strength after missing 10 games with a hamstring injury last season. Sypniewski tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee after colliding with LB Antwan Barnes in a minicamp practice on April 18.
Is Ravens' O-line in for a shuffle?
The most interesting development coming out of the Ravens' last minicamp was the sight of OLG Jason Brown, ORG Ben Grubbs and ORT Marshal Yanda all getting work at new positions. Brown, regarded as one of the league's better left guards, got work at right guard and center. Grubbs got a look at left guard. And Yanda got some practice time at right guard and center. What does this all mean? Head coach John Harbaugh said the moves were for offensive coordinator Cam Cameron's benefit. "If Cam can see this guy pulls better on the left side than the right side, or if a guy has a better reach block on the left side, then that can help his play-calling down the road," Harbaugh told Baltimore reporters. That Brown and Yanda got snaps at center underscores that C Chris Chester will be under pressure to play well in his third NFL season, the way we hear it.
CB Washington has made a positive early impression on Ravens
Don’t be surprised if ex-Raiders CB Fabian Washington makes a run at a starting job, a source close to the club tells PFW. Washington would step into the lineup if CB Samari Rolle, who missed much of last season because of complications due to epilepsy, is unable to handle a full-time role. Washington fell out of favor in Oakland, prompting his trade to Baltimore on draft weekend, but there is no doubting his elite speed for the position, and there are some who believe a new beginning may be just what he needs to spark his career. “The thing about Fabian is, first of all, he's very competitive,” head coach John Harbaugh told Baltimore reporters early in May. “He gets out there during one-on-one drills and he wants to win everything, even individual and the fundamental [drills] he wants to win. He's got tremendously quick feet, he's very fast and he's probably stronger and a little more physical than we anticipated. It's been real positive.” Washington injured a hamstring during the Ravens’ latest minicamp, but Harbaugh said the cornerback is expected to be healthy for the team’s OTAs.
Rice: Ravens' minicamp fight not a big deal
Don’t read too much into the Ravens’ team-wide brawl at a May 10 minicamp practice, rookie RB Ray Rice recently told PFW while in Los Angeles for the NFL Players Rookie Premiere weekend. “What you saw in camp last week was something it really wasn’t,” said Rice “Everybody was in the locker room (afterward), shaking hands.” The fight began when rookie OT Oniel Cousins and veteran DL Amon Gordon reportedly threw punches at each other. Rice, who is likely to be the primary backup to starter Willis McGahee in his first NFL season, gets the sense the Ravens will be playing with an edge this season.“We’re going to be an aggressive team,” Rice said. “As a team, whoever plays against us is going to feel that. We’re going to play the game hard and fast.”
Ravens' passing game a work in progress
With about two months left before training camp, much must be sorted out with the Ravens' passing game. There is no clear-cut starting quarterback; rookie Joe Flacco, young Troy Smith and veteran Kyle Boller all have fighting shots at the job, the way we hear it. Injuries have already taken a toll at tight end. TEs Todd Heap and Daniel Wilcox are coming off injury-plagued seasons, and capable backup Quinn Sypniewski is out for the 2008 season with a knee injury. There are questions about the WR corps beyond steady Derrick Mason. Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams, both of whom struggled to stay healthy last season, will see significant playing time, especially if the Ravens, as expected, employ plenty of three-WR sets. And there is the issue of whoever plays quarterback getting on the same page with his receivers while everyone gets comfortable in Cam Cameron's offense. Flacco, the team's first-round pick, recently told PFW that building chemistry with the receivers will come once he starts to master the offense.
With Ogden stepping aside, spotlight lands on Gaither
With OLT Jonathan Ogden officially announcing his retirement on Thursday, the Ravens will give young Jared Gaither the first run at Ogden's job. Gaither, a 2007 supplemental draft pick, has jaw-dropping size (6-9, 350) and flashed impressive talent at times as a rookie. The Ravens are banking that ability will make up for a lack of his experience; Gaither is only 22, and he has appeared in only six NFL games, starting twice. "He's been working very hard," Ravens ORG Marshal Yanda, himself a second-year player, told PFW. "I think he's been doing a pretty good job." The installation of Gaither at left tackle is only one of many moves the Ravens have made along the offensive line; there are likely to be new starters at all five positions. Ben Grubbs, the right guard from a season ago, will step in at left guard, replacing Jason Brown, who moves to center. After starting at right tackle as a rookie, Yanda moves inside, with Adam Terry slated to start next to him at right tackle.
Consistency on Yanda's mind as he moves to guard
Marshal Yanda is no stranger to the position of guard, having played the position in his junior season at Iowa before moving to tackle. So the second-year pro was not surprised that the Ravens’ coaching staff moved him from right tackle to right guard. Nor does he think the position switch is something he can’t overcome. “There are a lot of similarities,” Yanda told PFW of the two positions. “The main difference (at guard) is that you’re blocking a three-technique — a (much) bigger guy.” Yanda, who started 12 games as a rookie, learned first-hand how mental and physical fatigue can set in as a game progresses. “As the game went on, it was tough for me to keep my fundamentals,” Yanda said, mentioning his footwork in pass protection as an area he struggled with on occasion. On the other hand, he received plenty of valuable experience in his first NFL season — something he plans to use to his advantage in 2008. “Nothing is going to be surprising to me,” Yanda said.
Could Rice be Ravens' Jones-Drew?
Rookie RB Ray Rice has made a positive impression in his first few months with the Ravens, and the way we hear it, he could carve out a Maurice Jones-Drew-like role in the offense. Veteran Willis McGahee will get the majority of the workload, but the team made a concerted effort to keep him fresh last season and figures to do so in 2008. This creates an opportunity for Rice, who had a very productive collegiate career at Rutgers. His progress in the passing game will go a long way in how much he can contribute in his first NFL season. Rice caught only 37 passes in college, and he’ll have to consistently pick up the blitz — an area in which the short-but-stout Jones-Drew thrives.
Last season was a frustrating one for Ravens TE Daniel Wilcox. He missed 11 games with a variety of injuries, the most serious being a left toe that required offseason surgery. With a new coaching staff in place, and a new offense being installed, the 31-year-old Wilcox is working to get back onto the field. “I’m looking to get into the best shape of my life,” Wilcox told PFW this week. Wilcox hasn’t resumed running, but he has been cleared to start some physical activity, and he is expected to be back at full strength about a month before training camp. When healthy, Wilcox gives the Baltimore offense another pass-catching threat to a cast that already includes former Pro Bowler Todd Heap. Wilcox has met with new head coach John Harbaugh on several occasions and has come away impressed with the former Eagles assistant. “He seems like the type of guy who is about business,” Wilcox said. “And business equals winning.”
Ravens have an eye on running back in the draft
Word from Baltimore is to expect the Ravens to use at least one of their nine draft picks on a running back. The team’s depth at this position is shaky, and new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron will make RB Willis McGahee the centerpiece of the offense. Hence, a stable of backs capable of spelling McGahee isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. The top backup, Musa Smith, played all 16 games in 2007 for only the first time in five NFL seasons and has only one career start to his credit. The next most likely option off the bench, P.J. Daniels, has never played a regular-season down in two NFL seasons. He was a healthy scratch for all 16 games in ’06 and missed all of last season with a hamstring injury. Third-year RB Cory Ross racked up six yards a carry in limited action last season, but he is only 5-foot-6. The Ravens released veteran backup Mike Anderson earlier in the offseason. McGahee has been relatively healthy since missing the entire ’03 season recovering from a serious knee injury suffered in his final collegiate game. He had 337 touches (294 carries, 43 receptions) last season, the second-highest total of his career. McGahee missed most of Week 16 and all of the season finale in ’07 after suffering a rib injury at Seattle.
McNair's retirement leaves Ravens with limited options at quarterback
In February, general manager Ozzie Newsome said Steve McNair would be the starting quarterback. “We have no one else,” Newsome said, pointedly. Now, a little more than a week before the draft, McNair has elected to retire, leaving backups Kyle Boller and Troy Smith to compete for the job. On the surface, Boller would appear to have the edge on winning the job; he has 42 career starts compared to Smith’s two. However, head coach John Harbaugh said Thursday that the plans for the position have yet to be finalized. “We’ve talked about that many times — it’s competitive,” Harbaugh said Thursday. “We lost our incumbent, and now it’s wide open.” Newsome indicated McNair’s retirement would not alter the team’s draft plans. The Ravens select eighth overall and have nine draft picks. However, only five of those picks — Nos. 8, 38, 106, 173 and 215 — are tradable; the others are compensatory selections. That is worth noting as speculation about the Ravens’ interest in Boston College QB Matt Ryan grows. Ryan is expected to be selected before the Ravens are on the clock at No. 8. Newsome also hinted that the Ravens might not direct their attention to adding a veteran quarterback until after the draft. That said, the Ravens have pulled off a Draft Day trade for a passer before, trading two second-day picks for the Rams’ Tony Banks in 1999. Newsome was then the Ravens’ director of player personnel.
Loss of Sypniewski impacts offense, puts stress on TE depth
The potential season-ending knee injury suffered by TE Quinn Sypniewski hurts the team’s depth at a position riddled by injuries a season ago, and it could have a material effect on the offense. Sypniewski, an above-average blocker, developed into an effective target on short passes a season ago, catching 34 passes for 246 yards and starting nine games. With Sypniewski out, the Ravens may be forced to rely more heavily on veteran Daniel Wilcox, whose ’07 season was cut short by a variety of injuries. Wilcox is recovering from offseason toe surgery but is expected to be ready for training camp. Wilcox is a better receiver than blocker. The same can be said for starter Todd Heap, who is back at full strength after missing 10 games with a hamstring injury last season. Sypniewski tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee after colliding with LB Antwan Barnes in a minicamp practice on April 18.
Is Ravens' O-line in for a shuffle?
The most interesting development coming out of the Ravens' last minicamp was the sight of OLG Jason Brown, ORG Ben Grubbs and ORT Marshal Yanda all getting work at new positions. Brown, regarded as one of the league's better left guards, got work at right guard and center. Grubbs got a look at left guard. And Yanda got some practice time at right guard and center. What does this all mean? Head coach John Harbaugh said the moves were for offensive coordinator Cam Cameron's benefit. "If Cam can see this guy pulls better on the left side than the right side, or if a guy has a better reach block on the left side, then that can help his play-calling down the road," Harbaugh told Baltimore reporters. That Brown and Yanda got snaps at center underscores that C Chris Chester will be under pressure to play well in his third NFL season, the way we hear it.
CB Washington has made a positive early impression on Ravens
Don’t be surprised if ex-Raiders CB Fabian Washington makes a run at a starting job, a source close to the club tells PFW. Washington would step into the lineup if CB Samari Rolle, who missed much of last season because of complications due to epilepsy, is unable to handle a full-time role. Washington fell out of favor in Oakland, prompting his trade to Baltimore on draft weekend, but there is no doubting his elite speed for the position, and there are some who believe a new beginning may be just what he needs to spark his career. “The thing about Fabian is, first of all, he's very competitive,” head coach John Harbaugh told Baltimore reporters early in May. “He gets out there during one-on-one drills and he wants to win everything, even individual and the fundamental [drills] he wants to win. He's got tremendously quick feet, he's very fast and he's probably stronger and a little more physical than we anticipated. It's been real positive.” Washington injured a hamstring during the Ravens’ latest minicamp, but Harbaugh said the cornerback is expected to be healthy for the team’s OTAs.
Rice: Ravens' minicamp fight not a big deal
Don’t read too much into the Ravens’ team-wide brawl at a May 10 minicamp practice, rookie RB Ray Rice recently told PFW while in Los Angeles for the NFL Players Rookie Premiere weekend. “What you saw in camp last week was something it really wasn’t,” said Rice “Everybody was in the locker room (afterward), shaking hands.” The fight began when rookie OT Oniel Cousins and veteran DL Amon Gordon reportedly threw punches at each other. Rice, who is likely to be the primary backup to starter Willis McGahee in his first NFL season, gets the sense the Ravens will be playing with an edge this season.“We’re going to be an aggressive team,” Rice said. “As a team, whoever plays against us is going to feel that. We’re going to play the game hard and fast.”
Ravens' passing game a work in progress
With about two months left before training camp, much must be sorted out with the Ravens' passing game. There is no clear-cut starting quarterback; rookie Joe Flacco, young Troy Smith and veteran Kyle Boller all have fighting shots at the job, the way we hear it. Injuries have already taken a toll at tight end. TEs Todd Heap and Daniel Wilcox are coming off injury-plagued seasons, and capable backup Quinn Sypniewski is out for the 2008 season with a knee injury. There are questions about the WR corps beyond steady Derrick Mason. Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams, both of whom struggled to stay healthy last season, will see significant playing time, especially if the Ravens, as expected, employ plenty of three-WR sets. And there is the issue of whoever plays quarterback getting on the same page with his receivers while everyone gets comfortable in Cam Cameron's offense. Flacco, the team's first-round pick, recently told PFW that building chemistry with the receivers will come once he starts to master the offense.
With Ogden stepping aside, spotlight lands on Gaither
With OLT Jonathan Ogden officially announcing his retirement on Thursday, the Ravens will give young Jared Gaither the first run at Ogden's job. Gaither, a 2007 supplemental draft pick, has jaw-dropping size (6-9, 350) and flashed impressive talent at times as a rookie. The Ravens are banking that ability will make up for a lack of his experience; Gaither is only 22, and he has appeared in only six NFL games, starting twice. "He's been working very hard," Ravens ORG Marshal Yanda, himself a second-year player, told PFW. "I think he's been doing a pretty good job." The installation of Gaither at left tackle is only one of many moves the Ravens have made along the offensive line; there are likely to be new starters at all five positions. Ben Grubbs, the right guard from a season ago, will step in at left guard, replacing Jason Brown, who moves to center. After starting at right tackle as a rookie, Yanda moves inside, with Adam Terry slated to start next to him at right tackle.
Consistency on Yanda's mind as he moves to guard
Marshal Yanda is no stranger to the position of guard, having played the position in his junior season at Iowa before moving to tackle. So the second-year pro was not surprised that the Ravens’ coaching staff moved him from right tackle to right guard. Nor does he think the position switch is something he can’t overcome. “There are a lot of similarities,” Yanda told PFW of the two positions. “The main difference (at guard) is that you’re blocking a three-technique — a (much) bigger guy.” Yanda, who started 12 games as a rookie, learned first-hand how mental and physical fatigue can set in as a game progresses. “As the game went on, it was tough for me to keep my fundamentals,” Yanda said, mentioning his footwork in pass protection as an area he struggled with on occasion. On the other hand, he received plenty of valuable experience in his first NFL season — something he plans to use to his advantage in 2008. “Nothing is going to be surprising to me,” Yanda said.
Could Rice be Ravens' Jones-Drew?
Rookie RB Ray Rice has made a positive impression in his first few months with the Ravens, and the way we hear it, he could carve out a Maurice Jones-Drew-like role in the offense. Veteran Willis McGahee will get the majority of the workload, but the team made a concerted effort to keep him fresh last season and figures to do so in 2008. This creates an opportunity for Rice, who had a very productive collegiate career at Rutgers. His progress in the passing game will go a long way in how much he can contribute in his first NFL season. Rice caught only 37 passes in college, and he’ll have to consistently pick up the blitz — an area in which the short-but-stout Jones-Drew thrives.
Headlines January - March
Ravens retain Ryan, who hopes to again be a hot name for head-coaching vacancies after '08
The Ravens maintained some defensive continuity with the retention of defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, who signed a new three-year contract with the club. Ryan was also named assistant head coach, a designation that likely would have gone to offensive coordinator Cam Cameron were Ryan not brought back into the fold, the way we hear it. Ryan, 45, is known for defensive schemes that are stout, creative and aggressive. The Ravens were sixth in total defense this past season despite finishing in the bottom of the league in yards per pass play allowed — the result of a secondary battered by injuries. While well-liked and respected by the Ravens’ defensive players, Ryan was not offered the team’s head-coaching job after Brian Billick was fired, and he likely will have to go elsewhere if he is to garner a head-coaching position. Ryan was thought to be one of the favorites for the Falcons’ head-coaching vacancy, but Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Smith got the job. For now, though, Ryan will remain in Baltimore.
Suggs to receive franchise tag from Ravens if long-term deal isn't reached
The news that OLB Terrell Suggs will receive the franchise tag from the Ravens if team and player can't come together on a long-term contract is not surprising. Suggs — the only Pro Bowl player the Ravens have drafted in the last five years who is still on the roster — would have likely drawn significant interest early in free agency, and Baltimore was not inclined to let one of the key cogs of its aggressive, versatile defense go. In addition to the news of a possible franchise tag, The Baltimore Sun reported Tuesday that Suggs, 25, likely wants a deal close to what Colts DE Dwight Freeney received (six years, $72 million, $30 million guaranteed), but the paper also indicated both sides didn't appear to be close. Should the Ravens give Suggs the franchise tag, we're told the team may have to restructure another contract or two. Suggs only had five sacks last season, but a mix of personnel men and coaches recently surveyed by PFW praised his pass-rush ability and counted him among the more feared players at his position.
Newsome: McNair's our starter at the moment
General manager Ozzie Newsome said Steve McNair is the favorite to win the starting QB job among the passers currently on the roster. McNair, 35, played in only six games last season because of injuries to his groin and left shoulder, but Newsome, speaking at the Scouting Combine, said the quarterback’s recovery from surgery on that non-throwing shoulder has gone well. “It’s still in February, and (if you) asked who would be our starting quarterback, you would have to say right now it would be Steve McNair,” Newsome said. “We have no one else.” It would not be a surprise if the Ravens added one or more quarterbacks in free agency or the draft, so this could be a QB depth chart in flux. But it’s clear the Ravens see Kyle Boller, who started eight games in place of an injured McNair last season, as a backup at best.
Harbaugh, Ravens on same page
One of the biggest challenges facing new head coach John Harbaugh is getting in sync with a proud veteran roster that has no shortage of vocal leaders. It’s a group accustomed to winning and accustomed to ex-head coach Brian Billick’s methods. But Harbaugh, speaking at the Scouting Combine, said the Ravens players he’s met with share the same goals he has. “I probably met with 75 percent of our roster, anywhere between an hour and three hours with different guys,” Harbaugh said. “(FS) Ed Reed was in the other day, we had a tremendous conversation. That's been the most fun because those guys are hungry. They want to put together a real good football team. They want to exhaust every resource to build a football team.”
Ravens could address front seven with No. 8 pick
The Ravens have been one of the NFL’s quietest teams at the outset of free agency, and with good reason: They are not blessed with much salary-cap space. Rarely are the Ravens major market players as is, preferring to build via the draft. With no big-ticket signings likely coming, the focus turns to Baltimore’s plans for the No. 8 overall pick. Quarterback and cornerback are the Ravens’ most pressing needs, but Baltimore is unlikely to reach simply to address those positions. If the Ravens simply stick to their draft board, they may find themselves in a situation similar to 2003, when a promising front-seven player falls to their spot. Outside linebacker wasn't the Ravens' biggest need in ’03, but the Ravens could not pass on Terrell Suggs, whom they had rated as one of the top prospects in the draft. Baltimore enters this draft with strong talent along the defensive line and at linebacker, but it will be no surprise if they address either of those positions with the No. 8 pick.
Ravens banking on Pryce to come back strong
DL Trevor Pryce was one of the major reasons why the 2006 Ravens defense finished first in yards allowed and earned a reputation for ferocious play. Lining up inside for the majority of his snaps, Pryce matched his career high of 13 sacks. For a team that already could generate significant pressure off the edges and via the blitz, Pryce was an altogether different weapon. But Pryce, 32, played in only five games last season because of a broken wrist and a torn pectoral muscle, and there was some speculation about his future with the club, given his age. However, we’re told the Ravens are counting on Pryce to be a major part of the defense next season. Pryce rekindled his career in Baltimore after the Ravens allowed him to primarily rush the passer, and it’s a role he has relished. He’ll play it for at least one more season in Baltimore.
Ravens want McNair to be in top shape
QB Steve McNair is likely to be the Week One starter for the Ravens. That said, we hear the team wants McNair, 35, to prepare for the season as if his job were on the line. To hear it from a source close to the club, the 6-2, 230-pound McNair's offseason conditioning is something of a concern to the Ravens, who want their No. 1 quarterback to be at peak fitness in training camp and during the regular season. McNair hasn't run for even 150 yards in a season since 2002, so McNair's ability to get out of the pocket isn't at issue. But McNair needs to be mobile enough within the pocket to sidestep the rush and avoid being hit. McNair lost a career-high seven fumbles in only six games last season.
Ravens preparing for life without OLT Ogden, but O-line isn't without potential
OLT Jonathan Ogden, long one of the best players at his position and likely to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is widely expected to retire, and the Ravens are prepared to go on without him. The good news for Baltimore is that the majority of the offensive linemen who started a season ago got considerable experience. Adam Terry is likely to step in for Ogden, with second-year OT Jared Gaither expected to be the primary backup for both Terry and ORT Marshal Yanda. Terry has flashed ability in the past; the key for him will be consistency. But if Terry and Yanda can hold up on the edges, the Ravens' offensive line could be a team strength. Opposing coaches and scouts like what they have seen from OLG Jason Brown and ORG Ben Grubbs. The latter is entering only his second NFL season and is a former first-round pick. C Chris Chester is also a player with some potential, boasting the athleticism that a majority of clubs value in that position.
The Ravens maintained some defensive continuity with the retention of defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, who signed a new three-year contract with the club. Ryan was also named assistant head coach, a designation that likely would have gone to offensive coordinator Cam Cameron were Ryan not brought back into the fold, the way we hear it. Ryan, 45, is known for defensive schemes that are stout, creative and aggressive. The Ravens were sixth in total defense this past season despite finishing in the bottom of the league in yards per pass play allowed — the result of a secondary battered by injuries. While well-liked and respected by the Ravens’ defensive players, Ryan was not offered the team’s head-coaching job after Brian Billick was fired, and he likely will have to go elsewhere if he is to garner a head-coaching position. Ryan was thought to be one of the favorites for the Falcons’ head-coaching vacancy, but Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Smith got the job. For now, though, Ryan will remain in Baltimore.
Suggs to receive franchise tag from Ravens if long-term deal isn't reached
The news that OLB Terrell Suggs will receive the franchise tag from the Ravens if team and player can't come together on a long-term contract is not surprising. Suggs — the only Pro Bowl player the Ravens have drafted in the last five years who is still on the roster — would have likely drawn significant interest early in free agency, and Baltimore was not inclined to let one of the key cogs of its aggressive, versatile defense go. In addition to the news of a possible franchise tag, The Baltimore Sun reported Tuesday that Suggs, 25, likely wants a deal close to what Colts DE Dwight Freeney received (six years, $72 million, $30 million guaranteed), but the paper also indicated both sides didn't appear to be close. Should the Ravens give Suggs the franchise tag, we're told the team may have to restructure another contract or two. Suggs only had five sacks last season, but a mix of personnel men and coaches recently surveyed by PFW praised his pass-rush ability and counted him among the more feared players at his position.
Newsome: McNair's our starter at the moment
General manager Ozzie Newsome said Steve McNair is the favorite to win the starting QB job among the passers currently on the roster. McNair, 35, played in only six games last season because of injuries to his groin and left shoulder, but Newsome, speaking at the Scouting Combine, said the quarterback’s recovery from surgery on that non-throwing shoulder has gone well. “It’s still in February, and (if you) asked who would be our starting quarterback, you would have to say right now it would be Steve McNair,” Newsome said. “We have no one else.” It would not be a surprise if the Ravens added one or more quarterbacks in free agency or the draft, so this could be a QB depth chart in flux. But it’s clear the Ravens see Kyle Boller, who started eight games in place of an injured McNair last season, as a backup at best.
Harbaugh, Ravens on same page
One of the biggest challenges facing new head coach John Harbaugh is getting in sync with a proud veteran roster that has no shortage of vocal leaders. It’s a group accustomed to winning and accustomed to ex-head coach Brian Billick’s methods. But Harbaugh, speaking at the Scouting Combine, said the Ravens players he’s met with share the same goals he has. “I probably met with 75 percent of our roster, anywhere between an hour and three hours with different guys,” Harbaugh said. “(FS) Ed Reed was in the other day, we had a tremendous conversation. That's been the most fun because those guys are hungry. They want to put together a real good football team. They want to exhaust every resource to build a football team.”
Ravens could address front seven with No. 8 pick
The Ravens have been one of the NFL’s quietest teams at the outset of free agency, and with good reason: They are not blessed with much salary-cap space. Rarely are the Ravens major market players as is, preferring to build via the draft. With no big-ticket signings likely coming, the focus turns to Baltimore’s plans for the No. 8 overall pick. Quarterback and cornerback are the Ravens’ most pressing needs, but Baltimore is unlikely to reach simply to address those positions. If the Ravens simply stick to their draft board, they may find themselves in a situation similar to 2003, when a promising front-seven player falls to their spot. Outside linebacker wasn't the Ravens' biggest need in ’03, but the Ravens could not pass on Terrell Suggs, whom they had rated as one of the top prospects in the draft. Baltimore enters this draft with strong talent along the defensive line and at linebacker, but it will be no surprise if they address either of those positions with the No. 8 pick.
Ravens banking on Pryce to come back strong
DL Trevor Pryce was one of the major reasons why the 2006 Ravens defense finished first in yards allowed and earned a reputation for ferocious play. Lining up inside for the majority of his snaps, Pryce matched his career high of 13 sacks. For a team that already could generate significant pressure off the edges and via the blitz, Pryce was an altogether different weapon. But Pryce, 32, played in only five games last season because of a broken wrist and a torn pectoral muscle, and there was some speculation about his future with the club, given his age. However, we’re told the Ravens are counting on Pryce to be a major part of the defense next season. Pryce rekindled his career in Baltimore after the Ravens allowed him to primarily rush the passer, and it’s a role he has relished. He’ll play it for at least one more season in Baltimore.
Ravens want McNair to be in top shape
QB Steve McNair is likely to be the Week One starter for the Ravens. That said, we hear the team wants McNair, 35, to prepare for the season as if his job were on the line. To hear it from a source close to the club, the 6-2, 230-pound McNair's offseason conditioning is something of a concern to the Ravens, who want their No. 1 quarterback to be at peak fitness in training camp and during the regular season. McNair hasn't run for even 150 yards in a season since 2002, so McNair's ability to get out of the pocket isn't at issue. But McNair needs to be mobile enough within the pocket to sidestep the rush and avoid being hit. McNair lost a career-high seven fumbles in only six games last season.
Ravens preparing for life without OLT Ogden, but O-line isn't without potential
OLT Jonathan Ogden, long one of the best players at his position and likely to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is widely expected to retire, and the Ravens are prepared to go on without him. The good news for Baltimore is that the majority of the offensive linemen who started a season ago got considerable experience. Adam Terry is likely to step in for Ogden, with second-year OT Jared Gaither expected to be the primary backup for both Terry and ORT Marshal Yanda. Terry has flashed ability in the past; the key for him will be consistency. But if Terry and Yanda can hold up on the edges, the Ravens' offensive line could be a team strength. Opposing coaches and scouts like what they have seen from OLG Jason Brown and ORG Ben Grubbs. The latter is entering only his second NFL season and is a former first-round pick. C Chris Chester is also a player with some potential, boasting the athleticism that a majority of clubs value in that position.
Sonntag, 28. Dezember 2008
Lewis' last dance?
As Ray Lewis emerges today from the smoke-filled tunnel at M&T Bank Stadium, the Ravens' fiery linebacker will again send the sellout crowd into a frenzy with his trademark arm-flailing, hip-thrusting gyrations.
But could this mark Lewis' last dance in Baltimore?
The longtime face of the franchise, Lewis is nearing the end of his contract, which places even more significance on this game.
Because the Ravens (10-5) would have to play all of their postseason games on the road as the lowest-seeded AFC playoff team, this could become the final Baltimore home game in Lewis' storied career.
So while the Ravens' playoff prospects are well defined - a win over the Jacksonville Jaguars (5-10) today or a loss by the New England Patriots (10-5) clinches a berth - the future of Lewis is not.
Asked whether he has thought about the possibility that he could be making his last tackles here, Lewis shook his head.
"Absolutely not," Lewis said. "That would make me a very selfish individual to be thinking of that. That's not why you play the game. I'm out there trying to win a game."
Lewis, 33, is a major reason the Ravens have gone from a 5-11 team last season to a potential playoff club this year.
Playing at 260 pounds - 15 more than his usual playing weight - Lewis is leading the Ravens in tackles for the 11th time in 13seasons (he was injured in 2002 and 2005) and is back to striking fear in running backs going up the middle. His hit on Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall broke the rookie's shoulder and ended his season.
After a couple of seasons when critics wondered whether Lewis was slowing down, the 13-year veteran has been determined to prove otherwise in the last year of his contract. He will play his first full 16-game season since 2003, when he was named the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year for the second time.
He remains an every-down linebacker - something Ravens coaches questioned in the offseason - recording 3 1/2 sacks and three interceptions. More important, the 10-time Pro Bowl selection is the unquestioned leader in the locker room, easing what could have been a tough coaching transition from Brian Billick to John Harbaugh.
Some players consider Lewis the pulse of the Ravens. Others think Lewis is the Ravens.
"It's like picturing the Bulls without Michael Jordan," linebacker Jarret Johnson said. "It's hard to picture the Ravens' defense without [No.]52 in the middle."
It's difficult in this age of football for a player to stay with one team for his entire career. Some want to play beyond their prime, which forces teams to make difficult decisions. And some teams might want to keep their franchise players, but the salary cap precludes that at times.
That's why Joe Montana ended up with the Kansas City Chiefs, Emmitt Smith with the Arizona Cardinals and Brett Favre with the New York Jets.
"Over the course of time I've been here, you never think it," Lewis said of leaving the Ravens. "But I've seen crazier things. I've sat back and watched a lot of guys go through a long, dragged-out process. I've said to myself, 'I will never go through it.'"
The Ravens had never allowed Lewis to reach the final season of a contract, extending his deals two years before they expired. Lewis, who is finishing a seven-year, $50million contract (which included a then-NFL-record $19million signing bonus), would become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in March unless the Ravens sign him to a new deal or use the franchise tag on him before that point.
In March, owner Steve Bisciotti said the Ravens "would probably outbid other teams" if Lewis became a free agent.
Rumors have circulated that the Ravens had struck a new deal with Lewis, but general manager Ozzie Newsome said they were untrue.
"There have been no negotiations," Newsome said last week. "We'll sit down and meet with Ray's people as soon as the season ends. Nothing has changed."
Lewis isn't the only Raven unsure whether he'll be playing his last game in Baltimore. Other veteran Ravens such as kicker Matt Stover and linebackers Terrell Suggs and Bart Scott also are finishing up contracts. But Lewis said he spoke with them and all agreed that contracts would not be discussed during the season.
"That's what's special about this team," Lewis said. "The conversations I've had with these guys are so serious about the prize. Our prize has never changed. Our prize is the Super Bowl."
Here's what the other veterans are saying about perhaps playing their final home game in Baltimore:
• Matt Stover, kicker:
the only player remaining from the Browns' relocation from Cleveland and the Ravens' all-time leader in scoring.
"You have to keep the game in perspective at the time. You live in the now. You can't live too much in the future. There is enough worry in that in itself. I'm not going to worry. I'm going to concern myself with the game against Jacksonville."
• Bart Scott, linebacker:
former undrafted player who is closing in on his fourth straight 100-tackle season.
"I'm focused on winning because we can have the opportunity to play some more games and have some more memories. We know realistically - like every year - this may be the last time that a lot of us are together. Why not enjoy it and go out with a bang?"
• Terrell Suggs, defensive end-linebacker:
three-time Pro Bowl player who ranks second on the Ravens' all-time sacks list.
"Is it possible that it might be some of our last games at M&T? Yeah. But that's why we need to take care of business. If this is our last time around, we'd better make it good.
"But it doesn't feel like that. We respect each other enough to know that we might have to give up a little. I think by some miracle - and I truly believe this - that all three of us [Lewis, Scott and himself] will be back here. None of us is approaching it like this will be our last time in Baltimore."
But could this mark Lewis' last dance in Baltimore?
The longtime face of the franchise, Lewis is nearing the end of his contract, which places even more significance on this game.
Because the Ravens (10-5) would have to play all of their postseason games on the road as the lowest-seeded AFC playoff team, this could become the final Baltimore home game in Lewis' storied career.
So while the Ravens' playoff prospects are well defined - a win over the Jacksonville Jaguars (5-10) today or a loss by the New England Patriots (10-5) clinches a berth - the future of Lewis is not.
Asked whether he has thought about the possibility that he could be making his last tackles here, Lewis shook his head.
"Absolutely not," Lewis said. "That would make me a very selfish individual to be thinking of that. That's not why you play the game. I'm out there trying to win a game."
Lewis, 33, is a major reason the Ravens have gone from a 5-11 team last season to a potential playoff club this year.
Playing at 260 pounds - 15 more than his usual playing weight - Lewis is leading the Ravens in tackles for the 11th time in 13seasons (he was injured in 2002 and 2005) and is back to striking fear in running backs going up the middle. His hit on Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall broke the rookie's shoulder and ended his season.
After a couple of seasons when critics wondered whether Lewis was slowing down, the 13-year veteran has been determined to prove otherwise in the last year of his contract. He will play his first full 16-game season since 2003, when he was named the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year for the second time.
He remains an every-down linebacker - something Ravens coaches questioned in the offseason - recording 3 1/2 sacks and three interceptions. More important, the 10-time Pro Bowl selection is the unquestioned leader in the locker room, easing what could have been a tough coaching transition from Brian Billick to John Harbaugh.
Some players consider Lewis the pulse of the Ravens. Others think Lewis is the Ravens.
"It's like picturing the Bulls without Michael Jordan," linebacker Jarret Johnson said. "It's hard to picture the Ravens' defense without [No.]52 in the middle."
It's difficult in this age of football for a player to stay with one team for his entire career. Some want to play beyond their prime, which forces teams to make difficult decisions. And some teams might want to keep their franchise players, but the salary cap precludes that at times.
That's why Joe Montana ended up with the Kansas City Chiefs, Emmitt Smith with the Arizona Cardinals and Brett Favre with the New York Jets.
"Over the course of time I've been here, you never think it," Lewis said of leaving the Ravens. "But I've seen crazier things. I've sat back and watched a lot of guys go through a long, dragged-out process. I've said to myself, 'I will never go through it.'"
The Ravens had never allowed Lewis to reach the final season of a contract, extending his deals two years before they expired. Lewis, who is finishing a seven-year, $50million contract (which included a then-NFL-record $19million signing bonus), would become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in March unless the Ravens sign him to a new deal or use the franchise tag on him before that point.
In March, owner Steve Bisciotti said the Ravens "would probably outbid other teams" if Lewis became a free agent.
Rumors have circulated that the Ravens had struck a new deal with Lewis, but general manager Ozzie Newsome said they were untrue.
"There have been no negotiations," Newsome said last week. "We'll sit down and meet with Ray's people as soon as the season ends. Nothing has changed."
Lewis isn't the only Raven unsure whether he'll be playing his last game in Baltimore. Other veteran Ravens such as kicker Matt Stover and linebackers Terrell Suggs and Bart Scott also are finishing up contracts. But Lewis said he spoke with them and all agreed that contracts would not be discussed during the season.
"That's what's special about this team," Lewis said. "The conversations I've had with these guys are so serious about the prize. Our prize has never changed. Our prize is the Super Bowl."
Here's what the other veterans are saying about perhaps playing their final home game in Baltimore:
• Matt Stover, kicker:
the only player remaining from the Browns' relocation from Cleveland and the Ravens' all-time leader in scoring.
"You have to keep the game in perspective at the time. You live in the now. You can't live too much in the future. There is enough worry in that in itself. I'm not going to worry. I'm going to concern myself with the game against Jacksonville."
• Bart Scott, linebacker:
former undrafted player who is closing in on his fourth straight 100-tackle season.
"I'm focused on winning because we can have the opportunity to play some more games and have some more memories. We know realistically - like every year - this may be the last time that a lot of us are together. Why not enjoy it and go out with a bang?"
• Terrell Suggs, defensive end-linebacker:
three-time Pro Bowl player who ranks second on the Ravens' all-time sacks list.
"Is it possible that it might be some of our last games at M&T? Yeah. But that's why we need to take care of business. If this is our last time around, we'd better make it good.
"But it doesn't feel like that. We respect each other enough to know that we might have to give up a little. I think by some miracle - and I truly believe this - that all three of us [Lewis, Scott and himself] will be back here. None of us is approaching it like this will be our last time in Baltimore."
Ravens-Jaguars scouting report
Ravens run offense vs. Jaguars run defense:
Converted FB Le'Ron McClain has averaged 92.2 rushing yards in his past five games, scoring three touchdowns. It'll be interesting to see whether the Ravens will get the Willis McGahee from last game (103 yards) or the previous five games (a total of 76 yards). The Ravens, who have the NFL's No. 2 rushing attack, have gained at least 140 yards on the ground in nine of 10 wins this season. Jacksonville is 14th against the run but has looked stronger recently. The Jaguars have limited teams to 52.3 rushing yards in their past three games.
Ravens pass offense vs. Jaguars pass defense:
Joe Flacco has struggled at home this season. In seven games at M&T Bank Stadium, he has thrown four touchdown passes and seven interceptions for a 60.1 quarterback rating. Derrick Mason (shoulder and trapezius), the Ravens' leading receiver, did not practice last week and might not play if the Patriots lose before the Ravens' game (which would clinch a playoff spot for the Ravens). OT Willie Anderson (foot) is also questionable. The Jaguars are without their top cornerback, Rashean Mathis, who was placed on injured reserve this month. Jacksonville has given up 25 passing touchdowns (the third most in the NFL) and has 26 sacks (23rd in the league).
Jaguars run offense vs. Ravens run defense:
The Ravens gave up 90 yards Dec. 20 to Dallas' Tashard Choice -- the second-highest rushing total they've allowed this season. But it could be tougher for Jacksonville RB Maurice Jones-Drew, who missed most of practice with a knee injury. The Jaguars have to rely on Jones-Drew because Fred Taylor was placed on injured reserve three weeks ago. The Ravens are ranked third against the run, but they are even tougher to run against in Baltimore. With Ray Lewis manning the middle, the Ravens have gone 30 straight home games without surrendering 100 yards to a running back. That dates to October 2004.
Jaguars pass offense vs. Ravens pass defense:
Jacksonville has given up 41 sacks -- seventh-worst in the league -- because of its patchwork offensive line. G Vince Manuwai and G Maurice Williams suffered season-ending injuries in the opener, and T Richard Collier was shot 14 times only days before the first game. The Jaguars' leading receiver, Matt Jones, has been suspended after being charged with cocaine possession. QB David Garrard has an 86.9 passer rating this month, throwing five touchdown passes and three interceptions. The Ravens lead the NFL with 24 interceptions, including 14 in seven home games. Terrell Suggs has three sacks in his past four games.
Special teams:
The Ravens' Matt Stover has connected on 13 straight field-goal attempts. Jacksonville's Josh Scobee has missed four of his past seven. Ravens P Sam Koch is third in the AFC in net average (40.6 yards). The Jaguars' Steve Weatherford, who is replacing the injured Adam Podlesh (Maryland), is netting 33.6 yards. Ravens punt returner Jim Leonhard ranks sixth in the NFL with a 12.2-yard average.
Intangibles:
The Ravens have all the motivation in this matchup because a win would clinch a playoff spot. They haven't overlooked an opponent this season, going 6-0 against teams that currently have losing records (winning by an average margin of 31-12). With the resignation of player personnel chief James "Shack" Harris last week, the Jaguars continue to be in disarray. Jacksonville has lost five of its past six games. The Ravens have won their past seven season finales at home.
Matchups to watch
Ravens DE Trevor Pryce vs. Jaguars OT Tony Pashos
Pryce has been played extremely well down the stretch. He has an unorthodox style but is stronger than he looks. He plays the run well, but his forte is getting to the passer. Pryce can play inside or outside as a pass rusher. Pashos, a former Raven, is a self-made player. He isn't very athletic, but he is a brute.
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Jaguars QB David Garrard
Garrard used to be a scrambler but now prefers to stay in the pocket. He still can move and make plays with his legs. Reed plays a great center field and reads quarterbacks well. He is having a good season and has been a nightmare in the deep third of the field. Garrard will have to locate Reed first on every passing play.
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew
Jones-Drew's playing status is questionable, but he could give the Ravens problems. He is explosive and tough to tackle because he has a low center of gravity. He has good hands and is a weapon out of the backfield. Lewis has held up well all season and still plays sideline to sideline better than most inside linebackers in the NFL. Lewis' job is to take out Jones-Drew. Edge: Lewis
Converted FB Le'Ron McClain has averaged 92.2 rushing yards in his past five games, scoring three touchdowns. It'll be interesting to see whether the Ravens will get the Willis McGahee from last game (103 yards) or the previous five games (a total of 76 yards). The Ravens, who have the NFL's No. 2 rushing attack, have gained at least 140 yards on the ground in nine of 10 wins this season. Jacksonville is 14th against the run but has looked stronger recently. The Jaguars have limited teams to 52.3 rushing yards in their past three games.
Ravens pass offense vs. Jaguars pass defense:
Joe Flacco has struggled at home this season. In seven games at M&T Bank Stadium, he has thrown four touchdown passes and seven interceptions for a 60.1 quarterback rating. Derrick Mason (shoulder and trapezius), the Ravens' leading receiver, did not practice last week and might not play if the Patriots lose before the Ravens' game (which would clinch a playoff spot for the Ravens). OT Willie Anderson (foot) is also questionable. The Jaguars are without their top cornerback, Rashean Mathis, who was placed on injured reserve this month. Jacksonville has given up 25 passing touchdowns (the third most in the NFL) and has 26 sacks (23rd in the league).
Jaguars run offense vs. Ravens run defense:
The Ravens gave up 90 yards Dec. 20 to Dallas' Tashard Choice -- the second-highest rushing total they've allowed this season. But it could be tougher for Jacksonville RB Maurice Jones-Drew, who missed most of practice with a knee injury. The Jaguars have to rely on Jones-Drew because Fred Taylor was placed on injured reserve three weeks ago. The Ravens are ranked third against the run, but they are even tougher to run against in Baltimore. With Ray Lewis manning the middle, the Ravens have gone 30 straight home games without surrendering 100 yards to a running back. That dates to October 2004.
Jaguars pass offense vs. Ravens pass defense:
Jacksonville has given up 41 sacks -- seventh-worst in the league -- because of its patchwork offensive line. G Vince Manuwai and G Maurice Williams suffered season-ending injuries in the opener, and T Richard Collier was shot 14 times only days before the first game. The Jaguars' leading receiver, Matt Jones, has been suspended after being charged with cocaine possession. QB David Garrard has an 86.9 passer rating this month, throwing five touchdown passes and three interceptions. The Ravens lead the NFL with 24 interceptions, including 14 in seven home games. Terrell Suggs has three sacks in his past four games.
Special teams:
The Ravens' Matt Stover has connected on 13 straight field-goal attempts. Jacksonville's Josh Scobee has missed four of his past seven. Ravens P Sam Koch is third in the AFC in net average (40.6 yards). The Jaguars' Steve Weatherford, who is replacing the injured Adam Podlesh (Maryland), is netting 33.6 yards. Ravens punt returner Jim Leonhard ranks sixth in the NFL with a 12.2-yard average.
Intangibles:
The Ravens have all the motivation in this matchup because a win would clinch a playoff spot. They haven't overlooked an opponent this season, going 6-0 against teams that currently have losing records (winning by an average margin of 31-12). With the resignation of player personnel chief James "Shack" Harris last week, the Jaguars continue to be in disarray. Jacksonville has lost five of its past six games. The Ravens have won their past seven season finales at home.
Matchups to watch
Ravens DE Trevor Pryce vs. Jaguars OT Tony Pashos
Pryce has been played extremely well down the stretch. He has an unorthodox style but is stronger than he looks. He plays the run well, but his forte is getting to the passer. Pryce can play inside or outside as a pass rusher. Pashos, a former Raven, is a self-made player. He isn't very athletic, but he is a brute.
Ravens S Ed Reed vs. Jaguars QB David Garrard
Garrard used to be a scrambler but now prefers to stay in the pocket. He still can move and make plays with his legs. Reed plays a great center field and reads quarterbacks well. He is having a good season and has been a nightmare in the deep third of the field. Garrard will have to locate Reed first on every passing play.
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew
Jones-Drew's playing status is questionable, but he could give the Ravens problems. He is explosive and tough to tackle because he has a low center of gravity. He has good hands and is a weapon out of the backfield. Lewis has held up well all season and still plays sideline to sideline better than most inside linebackers in the NFL. Lewis' job is to take out Jones-Drew. Edge: Lewis
Ravens met their expectations; now they must live up to fans'
If you know anything about this edition of the Ravens, you know they're the only people in town who expected them to be where they are today - one victory from an AFC playoff berth.
Today, however, the stakes are different, and they will be long into the foreseeable future. The Ravens are no longer the surprise contenders. They're not flying under the radar. They're not the underdogs ("The first time in 16 weeks, huh?" Terrell Suggs cracked last week).
The Ravens are beyond all that: They are prohibitive favorites to whomp on the Jacksonville Jaguars this afternoon at M&T Bank Stadium and are considered a virtual lock to clinch the last wild-card spot. The last few AFC stragglers are sweating out their results, not the other way around.
In fact, the city is looking past the Jaguars, even if the players aren't. Fans have discussed everything from "What's the best first-round matchup?" to "You know the Super Bowl's back in Tampa, don't you, just like in '01?"
Bye-bye, pressure of low (or no) expectations. Hello, pressure of high expectations. The kind of which if the Ravens manage to lose today and miss the playoffs, they won't be getting condolences from the faithful, cries of go get 'em next time. They'll get shouts of, "You blew it! What happened?"
This is the world the Ravens have created, and, to their credit, they were more than happy to do it. As a whole, with very few public exceptions, they were blissfully unaware of what the outside world thought of them for this season. They never bought into the idea that they should have been a four- or five-win team, no matter how sound the reasoning behind the predictions.
The new head coach, John Harbaugh, never set the bar that low. The rookie quarterback, Joe Flacco, never believed he had too steep a learning curve (in fact, he said more than once that he wholeheartedly believed he would learn more by playing, not by holding a clipboard for a year). The veterans never sighed and resigned themselves to a rebuilding season.
When public sentiment leaned toward a finish near the bottom, they never even put much effort into the "everybody's-against-us" motivational strategy. As much as anything else, that attitude explains why they rolled through all the obstacles they did this season, leading to this climactic moment.
But they should not doubt for a moment that they won't have a brand-new public consensus to tune out. They might be one win away from hearing "Super Bowl or bust." Two wins, and they'll hear it 24-7 until their season ends, wherever and whenever that will be.
For good reason. These Ravens have raised expectations that high. They've proved over the course of this season that the thinnest of margins separates them from the AFC teams above them. Tennessee? A three-point loss at home in Week 5, aided by a lousy call. Pittsburgh? Let's not even go there. Whoever wins the East and West? Please.
Indianapolis? Uhhhh ... well, anyway ...Fans and other followers are entitled to impose those standards on this team and discard the previous ones. No longer can they be judged by what happened last season or by what they thought would happen last summer.
A playoff berth is the Ravens' for the taking, and the Super Bowl is off in the distance but hardly out of sight. "Nice job, guys, considering we all thought you'd stink this year" doesn't cut it anymore.
Today, however, the stakes are different, and they will be long into the foreseeable future. The Ravens are no longer the surprise contenders. They're not flying under the radar. They're not the underdogs ("The first time in 16 weeks, huh?" Terrell Suggs cracked last week).
The Ravens are beyond all that: They are prohibitive favorites to whomp on the Jacksonville Jaguars this afternoon at M&T Bank Stadium and are considered a virtual lock to clinch the last wild-card spot. The last few AFC stragglers are sweating out their results, not the other way around.
In fact, the city is looking past the Jaguars, even if the players aren't. Fans have discussed everything from "What's the best first-round matchup?" to "You know the Super Bowl's back in Tampa, don't you, just like in '01?"
Bye-bye, pressure of low (or no) expectations. Hello, pressure of high expectations. The kind of which if the Ravens manage to lose today and miss the playoffs, they won't be getting condolences from the faithful, cries of go get 'em next time. They'll get shouts of, "You blew it! What happened?"
This is the world the Ravens have created, and, to their credit, they were more than happy to do it. As a whole, with very few public exceptions, they were blissfully unaware of what the outside world thought of them for this season. They never bought into the idea that they should have been a four- or five-win team, no matter how sound the reasoning behind the predictions.
The new head coach, John Harbaugh, never set the bar that low. The rookie quarterback, Joe Flacco, never believed he had too steep a learning curve (in fact, he said more than once that he wholeheartedly believed he would learn more by playing, not by holding a clipboard for a year). The veterans never sighed and resigned themselves to a rebuilding season.
When public sentiment leaned toward a finish near the bottom, they never even put much effort into the "everybody's-against-us" motivational strategy. As much as anything else, that attitude explains why they rolled through all the obstacles they did this season, leading to this climactic moment.
But they should not doubt for a moment that they won't have a brand-new public consensus to tune out. They might be one win away from hearing "Super Bowl or bust." Two wins, and they'll hear it 24-7 until their season ends, wherever and whenever that will be.
For good reason. These Ravens have raised expectations that high. They've proved over the course of this season that the thinnest of margins separates them from the AFC teams above them. Tennessee? A three-point loss at home in Week 5, aided by a lousy call. Pittsburgh? Let's not even go there. Whoever wins the East and West? Please.
Indianapolis? Uhhhh ... well, anyway ...Fans and other followers are entitled to impose those standards on this team and discard the previous ones. No longer can they be judged by what happened last season or by what they thought would happen last summer.
A playoff berth is the Ravens' for the taking, and the Super Bowl is off in the distance but hardly out of sight. "Nice job, guys, considering we all thought you'd stink this year" doesn't cut it anymore.
Ravens vs. Jaguars Game Breakdown
With an AFC Wild Card berth at stake, the Ravens are set to play the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium (4:15pm ET).
Offering a look at Baltimore’s Week 17 opponent.
Rankings
Total Offense - 19 (324.1) Total Defense - 12 (324.3)
Rush Offense - 18 (110.4) Rush Defense - 14 (105.5)
Pass Offense - 13 (213.7) Pass Defense - 19 (218.8)
Points Per Game - 24 (19.7) Points Per Game - 20 (22.7)
Sizing Them Up
Even though they’ve had a rough season following a playoff campaign in 2007, the 5-10 Jacksonville Jaguars still have the weapons to hang with some of the league’s best.
Just take a look at last week’s heart-breaking 31-24 loss to the surging Indianapolis Colts. In that game, the Jaguars held a lead into the fourth quarter before Indianapolis engineered 17 points in the final period.
Jacksonville’s strength lies with their defense. Up front, massive defensive tackle John Henderson, a two-time Pro Bowler, is a big reason why the Jaguars are able to stuff the run, while a trio of talented defensive ends get after the quarterback.
The Jaguars spent their first two draft picks on young pass-rushers Quentin Groves and Derrick Harvey, and free agent veteran Paul Spicer and sack-leader Reggie Hayward round out the rotation.
In the secondary, Jacksonville features cornerback Brian Williams, a NC State alumnus, and safety Gerald Sensabaugh, a product of the University of North Carolina. The duo boasts six interceptions between them.
On offense, quarterback David Garrard leads the show. A typically mistake-free signal-caller, Garrard has thrown 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions this year. In four of Jacksonville’s five wins in 2008, Garrard has posted a plus-100 passer rating.
The Jaguars also get it done on the ground with the diminutive - but explosive - Maurice Jones-Drew and stalwart veteran Fred Taylor. The running backs have combined for 1,302 rushing yards, while Jones-Drew has tallied 1,507 total yards from scrimmage.
What’s Up?
My counterpart with the Jaguars, Vic Ketchman, thinks the Ravens are churning out the wins because of their offensive line.
“The reason the Ravens are playing for the playoffs and the Jaguars aren’t, in this reporter’s opinion, is the result of the young, promising offensive line the Ravens have very quietly assembled.”
Vito Stellino of the Florida Times-Union writes that Garrard is hoping to put his mistakes in Indy behind him.
“He'd like to wipe out the impression he made against the Indianapolis Colts in the fourth quarter after playing well for the first three quarters.”
The Times-Union’s Michael C. Wright reports that Jones-Drew should be able to play this Sunday despite sustaining a knee injury.
“Drew practiced for the first time all week Friday and was listed as probable on the team's injury report.”
Awards
Offensive - Jones-Drew is the guy that moves the chains for Jacksonville. Not only is he a dynamic rusher, he also owns a career-high 61 receptions and needs only five to become the first player in franchise history to lead the team in rushing and receiving yards during a season. He is tied for sixth in the NFL and third in the AFC with 14 touchdowns, including nine in the last eight games.
Defensive - Harvey provides the most teeth to the Jaguars’ pass rush. The eighth-overall pick - which was originally the Ravens’ before Jacksonville traded their spot at 18 to select the Florida product - leads the team with 29 quarterback pressures. He also has 28 tackles, 1.5 sacks and one interception. Harvey has eight starts this year, which are the most by a Jaguars rookie defensive end in team history.
Emerging Star
Sensabaugh paces Jacksonville with four interceptions, but his mark is also made in other areas. The former Tar Heel and 2005 fifth-round draft pick has also blocked a field goal this year and is fifth on the team with 78 tackles.
Key Matchups
Ravens LB Ray Lewis vs. Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew
Lewis is the Ravens’ tackling machine, and he’ll be the primary person chasing Jones-Drew, who can really rack up the yardage. The Ravens haven’t allowed a 100-yard rusher in an NFL-best 34 contests, but did give up 90 yards to Tashard Choice last week in Dallas.
Ravens WR Derrick Mason vs. Jaguars CB Brian Williams
Mason, the mouthpiece of Baltimore’s offense, will probably play even though he’s battling a painful shoulder injury that held him out of practice last week. Williams will likely draw the assignment of the Ravens’ top receiver. He leads Jacksonville’s secondary with 86 tackles and six passes defensed.
Quotable
Coach Jack Del-Rio on the Jaguars not living up to their high expectations coming into this season:
“It’s been a tough year. We’ve got one more opportunity left, and I expect us to compete with the kind of energy that we brought the last few times out. The guys have been hungry for a win. We got one in Green Bay, we were close against Indy [and] didn’t quite get it, and we want to finish strong. So, we’re looking forward to getting up to Baltimore and having a good showing.”
Garrard on if he can put a finger on the Jaguars’ woes:
“Not really. We did have a number of injuries this year. We had a number of injuries early, and that definitely slowed us quite a bit. But we’ve got to be able to battle through that. We’ve got to be able to have guys step up and fill those guys’ places. It has just really been a number of things. We haven’t had a whole lot go our way this year, but those are all just excuses; we just didn’t play up to our ability.”
Our Take
Despite owning the league’s second-best rushing offense, the Ravens could have success throwing the ball against the Jaguars, who are vulnerable to an aerial attack. Jacksonville has given up 25 passing touchdowns this year and have notched only 13 interceptions through 15 games.
Quarterback Joe Flacco has been very poised in the face of some of the top pass rushes in the NFL in recent weeks, so he could have a breakout if he has time Sunday.
Defensively, the Ravens should focus on Jones-Drew, who is as dynamic a playmaker as anyone in the league. Jones-Drew, who is a Ray Rice-like 5-foot-7, has the ability to turn any touch, whether that is a run, catch, or return, into a long touchdown.
The key for Baltimore’s defense isn’t about what Haloti Ngata and Justin Bannan can do up front, however. The Ravens will have to take advantage of their speed at linebacker to corral the running back.
The Byrne Identity: What To Expect Next
What Do We Expect from the Jaguars?
We’ll get the best of what the Jaguars have to offer. That much we’re sure of. They will not come to Baltimore and go through the motions. They have been out of the playoff picture for weeks, and they are still battling at a high level.
Two weeks ago (12/14), Jacksonville beat the Packers, 20-16. A week ago on Thursday (12/18), Jack Del Rio’s team took a 14-0 lead over the Colts, but lost, 31-24, when they could not score from the Indy 7 in the final minute of play.
They have nothing to lose. They’ve had 10 days to prepare. Del Rio, a former Ravens assistant coach who tutored Ray Lewis, is one of the fiercest competitors Southern Cal and the NFL have ever produced. The Jags are looking at this game as the start of the 2009 offseason.
We will have to meet their intensity…AND WE WILL! We are ready to take them on and give the same type of effort that has produced this surprising and enjoyable 10-5 season. The game is at our home, M&T Bank Stadium, with our enthusiastic, foot-stomping, noise-making fans. Let’s get after it.
And as coach John Harbaugh has told his team all season: “It is not about what they bring to the game. It’s about us. Can we be better than we were the week before? Let’s move to a higher level. Prepare to be better. Prepare to dominate. Prepare to win. What’s Important Now? Only one thing – beat the Jaguars. There is nothing else.”
It’s simple. We win. We’re in!
How About Those Cowboys?
Meaning no disrespect to anyone, there is nothing like a winning pro sports team to bring more people together for a common interest or cause. Billy Graham brings lots, but not the same numbers. Barack Obama is big, but our TV numbers are bigger.
We love the Terps, but it’s not the same thing because so many of us attended different colleges. There is nothing – nothing – that can draw people together like a winning pro team representing the community. And, we feel privileged to be part of something so special like the Ravens.
That’s kind of what I thought of when Le’Ron McClain sprinted 82 yards for a touchdown with a little over a minute left in our victory at Texas Stadium last Saturday. I mean, Willis McGahee had just split that vaunted Dallas defense for a 77-yard touchdown sprint. Honestly, I thought of all of those Ravens fans in the Baltimore area leaping out of their chairs and couches, getting closer to the TV and shouting things like: “Can you believe this? Oh my! Another one, McClain! This is incredible!”
How cool was that?
It was a special moment in Ravens history. And, the game was so dramatic. We had to win. We knew that. You knew that. And, how many of the experts thought we would? Few, very few.
It was nerve-wracking. It was tense. It was exhilarating. It was fantastic to be on the Ravens’ sideline with about 4 minutes left in the game. The sense clearly was, “Let’s get some 1st downs and keep that clock moving and live happily ever after.”
We had a 19-17 lead. “Let’s give the ball to Le’Ron and pound away.” That’s what I was thinking. We had done it this season with the game on the line. This is why we worked so hard in the spring and at training camp. “C’mon, pound that ball. Let’s win this thing and spoil the last-game Texas Stadium celebration.”
As I peered through the players crowding the sideline, I questioned what I was seeing. “Is that Willis sprinting to the end zone? Yeah!” One of our coaches who had supported Willis all season – urging other coaches to stick with him, “he’ll make big plays for us” – had his hands on his knees, bent at the waist. When I looked closer, I saw the tears in that coach’s eyes.
This was the best.
Before we caught our breath, and with coaches and players both exhorting, “This is not over,” Tony Romo hit Jason Witten for a 21-yard touchdown. Oh man, we only led 26-24, there was almost 2 minutes left on the clock, and Dallas had timeouts remaining.
Okay, I’m thinking – again, just pound the ball, get some 1st downs and enjoy the flight home.
No, we can’t be doing it again. The bench erupted. Le’Ron was on his way. “C’mon, big man, thunder down the field.” How good is this? Brotherhood, sense of family – we were happy human beings. Damn, it’s good to be a Raven and a Ravens’ fan.
The Locker Room
There are times in everyone’s life when you can look around and think, “This is pretty good.” That’s how I was feeling in the post-game locker room. The hug between coach Harbaugh and Steve Bisciotti was long and clearly emotional. Steve is really the one who stuck his neck out when he made the coaching change and hired a guy who had never been a head coach before – at any level.
There was O.J. Brigance, our director of player development, who is battling Lou Gehrig’s Disease. He spoke to the team the night before about overcoming circumstances and fulfilling God’s destiny. Players surrounded O.J., tapping his thin shoulders and arms. “We did it, O.J. You were right. All things are possible. We took advantage of our opportunity.”
Ray Lewis and Derrick Mason, 2 warriors who were clearly spent by the efforts they just gave, hugged strong and smiled at each other. We all have difficulties in our life. We all have to overcome and cope. Can anyone represent that better than Mason? I mean he was running down field, into the end zone to catch a touchdown pass, and he couldn’t even swing his one arm. Effort, you want effort? Yeah, D-Mase, do it for all of us in difficult circumstances. What an inspiration!
McClain fumbled in the game. Mason, one healthy shoulder and all, picked it up. Yamon Figurs let one go, and Daren Stone fought under the pile to keep it for the Ravens. This was team effort. This was family. This was Ravens football.
The "Over 30 Club"
Coach Harbaugh looks to a group of players who are over 30 for counsel about the team. The group includes “old” guys like Trevor Pryce, Ray Lewis, Derrick Mason and Willie Anderson. “Harbs” went to them weeks ago to ask them about the Christmas week schedule.
The original conversation was about what time of day the team would practice on Christmas Day (last Thursday). To be honest, the elder statesmen representing the players couldn’t decide whether they would come in early or late on Christmas. “It was a pretty good disagreement,” according to Harbaugh.
Since we played last Saturday in Dallas instead of a regular Sunday game, “Harbs” suggested to the players to give up their normal Tuesday off and take Christmas Day instead. That’s what happened. Last Tuesday was like a normal Wednesday for the players; Wednesday was a Thursday; Christmas Day, players were off, and Friday was – well, Friday.
At the Risk...
At the risk of sounding preachy at this holiday time of the year, I’ll submit some things football offers for all of us. We’ve all seen Derrick Mason overcoming circumstances. We can all relate to this, can’t we? We can look at coach Harbaugh and be inspired about the understudy who gets his chance and makes the most of it. We can look at Ray Lewis and be lifted by his age-defying efforts.
Hey, we know we’re a business trying to make some money with all of us keeping our jobs. We’re just a team fighting to win games and enjoy the rewards that come from it. But, you – the fans, allow us to be more.
In the spirit of this season of sharing, I’d like to offer something I saw Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young say. He said he loved football, because the game represented so much of what happens to all of us in real life.
Young said: “People talk about dropping the ball. In football, we literally drop the ball.” He made other parallels, but the one that really stuck with me was his suggestion that we all need huddles.
In football, we huddle before every play. Young suggested that society needs more huddles. He suggested that we all should huddle in real life…bring the people closest to us together and talk – talk about what just happened and what we’re about to do.
Communicate. Huddle. Get closer. Pretty good advice, isn’t it?
So, on behalf of the Ravens family, we wish you many huddles…and more victories.
Let’s beat those Jaguars and get to the playoffs.
Official NFL Preview (BAL - JAX)
With a playoff berth at stake, Baltimore is preparing for the Jacksonville Jaguars as it would any other opponent -- even though the Ravens' fate could be determined before they take the field.
Seeking to capture the AFC's final wild-card spot, the Ravens play a Jaguars team trying to conclude the season on a positive note on Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium.
Baltimore (10-5) has won eight of its last 10 games, tightening its grip on the No. 6 seed in the AFC by beating Dallas 33-24 last Saturday. The Ravens can secure the spot with a victory over Jacksonville (5-10), though they may already be in the playoffs before the opening kickoff.
The league moved this game to a 4:15 p.m. ET start as part of its flex scheduling. If New England -- currently 10-5 -- falls at Buffalo earlier Sunday afternoon, the Ravens would also clinch the wild-card spot by virtue of a better conference record than the Patriots.
Despite that possibility, first-year coach John Harbaugh is confident his team views the game as a must-win situation.
"You look at our guys and our football team, and I don't know that we're the type of team that's going to want to go out there and not want to win -- no matter what's at stake," Harbaugh said. "If it turns out that not as much is at stake, I'm pretty sure our guys are going to try and win the football game. That's just the personality of our football team."
Jacksonville has dropped five of its last six games and blew an early two-touchdown lead in a 31-24 defeat to Indianapolis on Sunday. Personnel director James Harris resigned Tuesday in what may be a precursor to players and coaches leaving the Jaguars in an offseason overhaul.
"With the way we played last year and then coming back this year and having a below-average season, I didn't think it was going to go as far as Shack, but it has," defensive end Paul Spicer said. "It's affected a lot of guys, a lot of lives, a lot of families. A lot of people's lives have been changed."
This will be the first time the Jaguars will finish last in the AFC South since the divisions were realigned and a disappointing season following a playoff appearance in 2007.
The Ravens are familiar with the Jaguars' plight, having ended their 2007 season with a victory over playoff-bound Pittsburgh to cap a 5-11 campaign.
"I know they want to win that football game," Harbaugh said. "We know what the expectations were for that team coming into the season. They've obviously had a disappointing season, and that only fuels them more in a game like this."
Rookie quarterback Joe Flacco was again steady for the Ravens, throwing for 149 yards and a touchdown against Dallas, and has 13 TD passes in his last 10 games. He's had the luxury of a consistent running game, which had a season-high 265 yards against Dallas as Le'Ron McClain had a career-high 139 yards and Willis McGahee added 108.
The duo leads Baltimore with 832 and 647 rushing yards, respectively, and has helped Baltimore rank second in rushing at 149.9 yards per game. They will match up against a Jacksonville defense that has conceded a total of 202 rushing yards over its last three games.
Though Jaguars quarterback David Garrard did throw for a season-high 329 yards with a touchdown against the Colts, he took a game-ending sack after getting Jacksonville down to the Indianapolis 7-yard line.
"You can't take a sack on the last play. It's got to be thrown into the end zone," coach Jack Del Rio told the Jaguars' official Web site. "He made some great plays (last Sunday). You'd like it to come out of his hand and it either be incomplete or score a touchdown. It just didn't happen."
Running back Maurice Jones-Drew had 91 yards -- his best effort since rushing for a season-high 125 in an Oct. 12 win at Denver -- and caught seven passes for 71 yards. Aside from leading the Jaguars with 746 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, Jones-Drew is also second on the team with 555 receiving yards.
Jacksonville is facing a Ravens defense ranked second in total defense at 279.3 yards per game and third in scoring defense (15.8 ppg).
Dennis Northcutt has emerged as Garrard's favorite target recently. Starting for the second straight week in place of Jerry Porter (groin) and Matt Jones (suspension), he made eight catches for 101 yards and touchdown, recording back-to-back 100-yard performances after going nearly four years without one.
The Ravens have won the last four home matchups in the series against the Jaguars, but had a six-game overall winning streak against them snapped in a 30-3 defeat in the most recent meeting in 2005.
Baltimore, which is 5-2 at home, has not allowed more than 13 points in any game at M&T Bank Stadium this season.
Seeking to capture the AFC's final wild-card spot, the Ravens play a Jaguars team trying to conclude the season on a positive note on Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium.
Baltimore (10-5) has won eight of its last 10 games, tightening its grip on the No. 6 seed in the AFC by beating Dallas 33-24 last Saturday. The Ravens can secure the spot with a victory over Jacksonville (5-10), though they may already be in the playoffs before the opening kickoff.
The league moved this game to a 4:15 p.m. ET start as part of its flex scheduling. If New England -- currently 10-5 -- falls at Buffalo earlier Sunday afternoon, the Ravens would also clinch the wild-card spot by virtue of a better conference record than the Patriots.
Despite that possibility, first-year coach John Harbaugh is confident his team views the game as a must-win situation.
"You look at our guys and our football team, and I don't know that we're the type of team that's going to want to go out there and not want to win -- no matter what's at stake," Harbaugh said. "If it turns out that not as much is at stake, I'm pretty sure our guys are going to try and win the football game. That's just the personality of our football team."
Jacksonville has dropped five of its last six games and blew an early two-touchdown lead in a 31-24 defeat to Indianapolis on Sunday. Personnel director James Harris resigned Tuesday in what may be a precursor to players and coaches leaving the Jaguars in an offseason overhaul.
"With the way we played last year and then coming back this year and having a below-average season, I didn't think it was going to go as far as Shack, but it has," defensive end Paul Spicer said. "It's affected a lot of guys, a lot of lives, a lot of families. A lot of people's lives have been changed."
This will be the first time the Jaguars will finish last in the AFC South since the divisions were realigned and a disappointing season following a playoff appearance in 2007.
The Ravens are familiar with the Jaguars' plight, having ended their 2007 season with a victory over playoff-bound Pittsburgh to cap a 5-11 campaign.
"I know they want to win that football game," Harbaugh said. "We know what the expectations were for that team coming into the season. They've obviously had a disappointing season, and that only fuels them more in a game like this."
Rookie quarterback Joe Flacco was again steady for the Ravens, throwing for 149 yards and a touchdown against Dallas, and has 13 TD passes in his last 10 games. He's had the luxury of a consistent running game, which had a season-high 265 yards against Dallas as Le'Ron McClain had a career-high 139 yards and Willis McGahee added 108.
The duo leads Baltimore with 832 and 647 rushing yards, respectively, and has helped Baltimore rank second in rushing at 149.9 yards per game. They will match up against a Jacksonville defense that has conceded a total of 202 rushing yards over its last three games.
Though Jaguars quarterback David Garrard did throw for a season-high 329 yards with a touchdown against the Colts, he took a game-ending sack after getting Jacksonville down to the Indianapolis 7-yard line.
"You can't take a sack on the last play. It's got to be thrown into the end zone," coach Jack Del Rio told the Jaguars' official Web site. "He made some great plays (last Sunday). You'd like it to come out of his hand and it either be incomplete or score a touchdown. It just didn't happen."
Running back Maurice Jones-Drew had 91 yards -- his best effort since rushing for a season-high 125 in an Oct. 12 win at Denver -- and caught seven passes for 71 yards. Aside from leading the Jaguars with 746 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, Jones-Drew is also second on the team with 555 receiving yards.
Jacksonville is facing a Ravens defense ranked second in total defense at 279.3 yards per game and third in scoring defense (15.8 ppg).
Dennis Northcutt has emerged as Garrard's favorite target recently. Starting for the second straight week in place of Jerry Porter (groin) and Matt Jones (suspension), he made eight catches for 101 yards and touchdown, recording back-to-back 100-yard performances after going nearly four years without one.
The Ravens have won the last four home matchups in the series against the Jaguars, but had a six-game overall winning streak against them snapped in a 30-3 defeat in the most recent meeting in 2005.
Baltimore, which is 5-2 at home, has not allowed more than 13 points in any game at M&T Bank Stadium this season.
Samstag, 27. Dezember 2008
Ravens QB job still wide open
Don't read too much into Kyle Boller being named the starting quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens' preseason opener Thursday against the New England Patriots.
There is still no leader in the clubhouse.
After more than two weeks of practices and evaluation, neither Boller, Troy Smith nor rookie Joe Flacco has separated from one another in this three-way quarterback race.
The competition, so far, has been underwhelming. So Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told reporters after practice Tuesday that Boller was given "a nod to experience and seniority."
Note the missing key word of "performance," which in a perfect world is what the coaching staff is looking for when they determine a starter for the first regular season game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Although it may happen eventually, Harbaugh noted last week that none of his quarterbacks are standing out in that category.
If all things are even, Boller deserves the nod for the first preseason game. He has more than 40 career starts under his belt and has worked with the first team more often in game situations.
But this doesn't mean that Smith and Flacco are falling behind in the race. Far from it, in fact.
There is still no leader in the clubhouse.
After more than two weeks of practices and evaluation, neither Boller, Troy Smith nor rookie Joe Flacco has separated from one another in this three-way quarterback race.
The competition, so far, has been underwhelming. So Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told reporters after practice Tuesday that Boller was given "a nod to experience and seniority."
Note the missing key word of "performance," which in a perfect world is what the coaching staff is looking for when they determine a starter for the first regular season game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Although it may happen eventually, Harbaugh noted last week that none of his quarterbacks are standing out in that category.
If all things are even, Boller deserves the nod for the first preseason game. He has more than 40 career starts under his belt and has worked with the first team more often in game situations.
But this doesn't mean that Smith and Flacco are falling behind in the race. Far from it, in fact.
Playbook Exclusive: Ravens vs. Titans
Sterling Sharpe and Brian Baldinger look at how Kerry Collins, as well as the Titans' special teams.
LINK
LINK
Is Harbaugh pushing Ravens too hard?
"Camp Hardball" is quickly turning into "Camp Hard-luck" in Baltimore.
The injury bug arguably has hit the Baltimore Ravens harder than any NFL team this summer.
The list of players who have been hurt in the past week include running back Willis McGahee (leg), offensive tackles Adam Terry (ankle) and Jared Gaither (ankle), and defensive tackles Haloti Ngata (knee) and Kelly Gregg (leg). McGahee and Gregg have since returned to practice.
First-year head coach John Harbaugh promised to change the loose culture in Baltimore, and he's doing exactly that by having practices that are both high-energy and very physical. The side-effect has been a rash of ailments to key players.
It is no surprise that Harbaugh is going 100 miles per hour in training camp. It's the only way he knows. He's the son of a coach and a longtime special-teams assistant, and Harbaugh has taken that hard-nosed mentality to the lead post.
But it may be time to ease the foot off the pedal just a little bit.
Harbaugh doesn't have to revert to the country-club style of camp ran by former coach Brain Billick. But for the sake of his team's overall health, Harbaugh should begin searching for a happier medium in the coming weeks.
The injury bug arguably has hit the Baltimore Ravens harder than any NFL team this summer.
The list of players who have been hurt in the past week include running back Willis McGahee (leg), offensive tackles Adam Terry (ankle) and Jared Gaither (ankle), and defensive tackles Haloti Ngata (knee) and Kelly Gregg (leg). McGahee and Gregg have since returned to practice.
First-year head coach John Harbaugh promised to change the loose culture in Baltimore, and he's doing exactly that by having practices that are both high-energy and very physical. The side-effect has been a rash of ailments to key players.
It is no surprise that Harbaugh is going 100 miles per hour in training camp. It's the only way he knows. He's the son of a coach and a longtime special-teams assistant, and Harbaugh has taken that hard-nosed mentality to the lead post.
But it may be time to ease the foot off the pedal just a little bit.
Harbaugh doesn't have to revert to the country-club style of camp ran by former coach Brain Billick. But for the sake of his team's overall health, Harbaugh should begin searching for a happier medium in the coming weeks.
WK 4 Playbook Exclusive: Steelers vs. Ravens
Sterling Sharpe and Brian Baldinger examine the Ravens pass rush.
Ravens still waiting for separation at QB
So far, after nearly two weeks of practices, the Baltimore Ravens' three-way quarterback race remains where it started.
It's a stalemate.
Troy Smith, Kyle Boller and Joe Flacco arrived in Westminster, Md., before the veterans to get the competition underway as soon as possible. Each player has had their good and bad days, which is making it difficult for the Ravens to evaluate.
"We're just balancing it out," Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told reporters. "Everybody's taking equal reps...You'd like to think that somebody, or two guys in some way, will start to get separated on its own and I think it will. But if it doesn't, we've got to let it play out."
After traveling to Westminster to watch the three quarterbacks during the first week of camp, the competition looked eerily similar to last year's battle in Cleveland between Derek Anderson and Charlie Frye.
Neither player took hold of the position, and Frye won the job by default because he made the fewest mistakes.
Former Browns first-round pick Brady Quinn had the best preseason in 2007, but his late arrival left him out of the competition.
It doesn't appear much has changed from the first and second week with Baltimore. The Ravens will make their preseason debut under Harbaugh on Aug. 7 when the team plays the New England Patriots, and the coaching staff still doesn't have a starter in mind for that game.
"We'll figure that out probably two days before the first preseason game," Harbaugh said.
It's a stalemate.
Troy Smith, Kyle Boller and Joe Flacco arrived in Westminster, Md., before the veterans to get the competition underway as soon as possible. Each player has had their good and bad days, which is making it difficult for the Ravens to evaluate.
"We're just balancing it out," Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told reporters. "Everybody's taking equal reps...You'd like to think that somebody, or two guys in some way, will start to get separated on its own and I think it will. But if it doesn't, we've got to let it play out."
After traveling to Westminster to watch the three quarterbacks during the first week of camp, the competition looked eerily similar to last year's battle in Cleveland between Derek Anderson and Charlie Frye.
Neither player took hold of the position, and Frye won the job by default because he made the fewest mistakes.
Former Browns first-round pick Brady Quinn had the best preseason in 2007, but his late arrival left him out of the competition.
It doesn't appear much has changed from the first and second week with Baltimore. The Ravens will make their preseason debut under Harbaugh on Aug. 7 when the team plays the New England Patriots, and the coaching staff still doesn't have a starter in mind for that game.
"We'll figure that out probably two days before the first preseason game," Harbaugh said.
Ravens position battles
Here is a look at key position battles for the Ravens:
Quarterback: Kyle Boller vs. Troy Smith vs. Joe Flacco
The Baltimore Ravens are just one of two teams in the entire league faced with a three-way quarterback race. Miami also is in a similar spot this summer. But what makes Baltimore's group interesting is that all three quarterbacks have different strengths and weaknesses, so the Ravens will have to decide which skill set they want to mold into Cam Cameron's attacking offense.
Will they take the more mobile quarterback in Smith, who also is very undersized? Or will Baltimore choose the experienced Kyle Boller, whose poor decision making over the years has left much to be desired? Hot-shot rookie Joe Flacco has the look and the strongest arm, but can he read NFL defenses at this early stage? The Ravens have about six weeks to answer these questions.
Intensity index: Hot
Cornerback: Samari Rolle vs. Fabian Washington
This is only a competition because of questions about Samari Rolle's health. Rolle is the starting cornerback in Baltimore when he's available, but complications from epilepsy caused Rolle to miss 10 games last season.
Baltimore's defense finally displayed a glaring weakness in 2007 with a banged-up secondary, so the team went out and got Fabian Washington, a former first-round pick, to provide depth. Washington will see a lot of action early in camp because Rolle also will be a late arrival following the sudden passing of his father.
Intensity index: Mild
Quarterback: Kyle Boller vs. Troy Smith vs. Joe Flacco
The Baltimore Ravens are just one of two teams in the entire league faced with a three-way quarterback race. Miami also is in a similar spot this summer. But what makes Baltimore's group interesting is that all three quarterbacks have different strengths and weaknesses, so the Ravens will have to decide which skill set they want to mold into Cam Cameron's attacking offense.
Will they take the more mobile quarterback in Smith, who also is very undersized? Or will Baltimore choose the experienced Kyle Boller, whose poor decision making over the years has left much to be desired? Hot-shot rookie Joe Flacco has the look and the strongest arm, but can he read NFL defenses at this early stage? The Ravens have about six weeks to answer these questions.
Intensity index: Hot
Cornerback: Samari Rolle vs. Fabian Washington
This is only a competition because of questions about Samari Rolle's health. Rolle is the starting cornerback in Baltimore when he's available, but complications from epilepsy caused Rolle to miss 10 games last season.
Baltimore's defense finally displayed a glaring weakness in 2007 with a banged-up secondary, so the team went out and got Fabian Washington, a former first-round pick, to provide depth. Washington will see a lot of action early in camp because Rolle also will be a late arrival following the sudden passing of his father.
Intensity index: Mild
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