The Ravens and the Chargers have a lot of similarities from the run-oriented offenses to the Pro Bowl tight ends, to the big name linebackers to the strong front sevens. Playing at home will be an advantage for the Ravens, but I think San Diego has an advantage as far as the offensive and defensive lines. The Chargers haven't given up a sack, and their quarterback Philip Rivers has been hit only twice this season. San Diego may have only played Oakland and the Titans, but those two teams usually play well defensively.

Regardless of what happens, it will be nice to see the Ravens play a respected opponent. When the Steelers played the Jaguars about two weeks ago, you could feel the intensity through the TV set. This game should be the same way.

Posted by Mike Preston at 1:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

Despite both players missing practice time Thursday, I can't see either player missing the game Sunday. These defensive guys have been talking about the Chargers all week and what is at stake. When you have two strong defenses going against each other, and both teams have good running backs, everybody plays. It's all about pride. They would have to tie Terrell Suggs and Ed Reed to a pole for them not to play in this game.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

Head coach Brian Billick said Wednesday that it's in the game plan to get receiver Mark Clayton the ball more often. Billick said the coaching staff made that decision after the Oakland game nearly two weeks ago. The sad part is that should have been a major part of the game plan by the end of last season. Clayton was hot in the final quarter of the 2005 season and had a terrific training camp to open 2006. He is elusive and explosive right after the catch. The Ravens are a little late on this one, but at least Clayton should be a factor in the offense for the rest of the season.

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)
        

Despite heavy criticism, the offensive line remains one of the hardest working units on the team. As a group, they're usually the last batch of players to leave the practice field. Three of the hardest workers are guards Keydrick Vincent, Edwin Mulitalo and right tackle Tony Pashos. Overall, they lack some talent, but have an immense amount of pride. The group does have a strong work ethic.

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
        

Word has it that quarterback Steve McNair's ribs are pretty sore and tender from the beating he took against Cleveland. Now warming up in the bullpen: Kyle Boller. Also, anyone  find it strange that tight end Todd Heap hurt his ankle while stretching at home Friday night before the Browns' game? Hmm. That sounds a little fishy.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)
        

Defensive end Terrell Suggs says he'll be ready to play against the Chargers Sunday despite a hamstring injury he suffered against the Browns. Suggs says a lot of fuss is being made about nothing. It was good to see end/outside linebacker Jarret Johnson get some playing time against the Browns. That kid has a non-stop motor, and he has worked hard to make the adjustment of playing both positions. Johnson has trouble dropping into coverage, but that no longer seems to be a problem.

Posted by Mike Preston at 5:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Tight end Todd Heap's status is questionable for Sunday's game against Cleveland. Heap reportedly injured his ankle while stretching at home Friday night. You can't replace a player of his caliber even though the Ravens have a good backup in Dan Wilcox. Heap has been working well with quarterback Steve McNair, and had become a favorite target of McNair's inside the red zone. The Ravens also like to run out of the two tight end set, and both Heap and Wilcox were weapons as receivers. Rookie reserve tight end Quinn Sypniewski is a good blocker and has decent hands, but is unproven. He also can't get deep like either Heap or Wilcox, so he won't be much of a passing threat.

Posted by Mike Preston at 9:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Ravens should beat the Cleveland Browns, but the outcome could be determined by which team is winning in the middle of the line of scrimmage. Browns center Hank Fraley has only been with the team since September 2nd, and is still learning the play book. He'll have his hands full with Ravens tackles and nose guards Kelly Gregg and Haloti Ngata. On the other side, the Browns have 6-5, 365-pound run stopper Ted Washington. Ravens center Mike Flynn has struggled with big nose guards and he'll need a lot of help from guards Keydrick Vincent and Edwin Mulitalo.

Posted by Mike Preston at 12:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Since we're in the new wave of journalism where the media loves to write about the media (including non-stop, not funny one liners), and we're in a protesting mood, I suggest that fans protest at the next Ravens home game if the offense fails against the Browns Sunday. That's right. Whenever the Ravens offense has the ball at M&T Bank Stadium against the Chargers, fans should head for the beer lines or restrooms. When the defense goes back on the field, fans should return to their seats to cheer on the team. It makes about as much sense as the protest at Oriole Park. Fans have been protesting Orioles games for years because attendance is down. They just don't show up anymore, and there isn't a better way of making a statement.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Running back Musa Smith did not even dress for practice Thursday because of a knee injury. While the Ravens did not rule him out for Sunday's game against Cleveland, it's unlikely he'll play. In fact, the Ravens have already made plans to use Mike Anderson as the No. 2 running back behind starter Jamal Lewis.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

Reserve running back Musa Smith did not finish practice Thursday, and there seems to be a good chance he won't play against Cleveland Sunday because of a knee injury. It appeared as though Smith had moved ahead of Mike Anderson as No. 2 behind Jamal Lewis, but Anderson remains No. 2 on the depth chart. The injury will halt Smith's progress. He has played extremely well through training camp and the preseason. Fortunately, the Ravens have three quality backs and Anderson will get more work now with Smith hurt, and Lewis still not 100 percent from a hip flexor.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

I keep hearing that the Cleveland game Sunday is a trap game for the Ravens. I could see that happening last year, but not this season. This is a different team with a different mission. They want to prove that last year was a fluke. I could possibly see the Ravens being overconfident if they had beaten the Colts and Patriots back to back, but it was the Bucs and Raiders. This is an AFC North game, the first of the season, and the Ravens have something to prove after being embarrassed in Cleveland at the end of last season. The Ravens should cover the spread.

Posted by Mike Preston at 10:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)
        

After years and years of campaigning, Ravens head coach Brian Billick finally got the message. He is not comparing this year's defense or any other thing to the 2000 Super Bowl season. Over the years, players got tired of hearing from Billick about how the Ravens did things in 2000. They got tired of hearing about the great defense, and the miracle run. A lot of these guys weren't even around. They wanted to establish their own team identity. With Billick downplaying all the questions from the press, these guys now have their own chance to create something special. They respect what happened five or six years ago, but no one likes to live in someone else's shadow.

Posted by Mike Preston at 1:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

Within a week, McNair went from hero to goat. It's amazing. He didn't play that well against Tampa Bay, but everyone seemed to overlook that because the Ravens won. He played poorly yesterday, and now people are on his case. Before training camp started, most of the Ravens' coaching staff predicted McNair would have a rough start. I don't know if his problems can be corrected, but he should get four or five games under his belt before fans rush to judgment. Despite the shortcomings of the offense, the last time I checked the Ravens were still 2-0. As Jamal Lewis said, "we're 2-0 with things to work on. It's better than being 0-2 with things to work on."

Amen.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (20)
        

The Ravens introduced the offense Sunday, and quarterback Steve McNair came out last, a spot usually reserved for middle linebacker Ray Lewis. It was a good move by the organization. The Ravens have been promoting the team concept since training camp, and some of the players might have been irritated by Lewis' dance, especially since he isolated himself from the team last season. Lewis also angered some of his teammates with critcism of them and the franchise during the offseason. Lewis has worked hard to mend fences, but all the wounds aren't healed. It will take some time, and then, maybe it will be time for him to dance again on occasions.

Posted by Bill Ordine at 9:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
        

The best thing to come out of the Oakland win, besides a 2-0 record, is that key offensive players like Jonathan Ogden, Derrick Mason and Jamal Lewis are frustrated with the lack of scoring. They want to confront the problem now instead of later in the season. They aren't buying that 2000 Miracle Run when the Ravens scored with defense only. You don't know if there will be any offensive changes because we've seen this problem before. But at least the players are dealing with realism instead of denial.

Posted by Bill Ordine at 8:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
        

A Hagerstown fan suggested that if the Ravens lose to the Raiders Sunday, it will make their win against Tampa Bay hollow. I can understand his point. The Ravens had to prove they could win on the road, and they did against a playoff caliber team in the Bucks. Playoff teams also beat teams that they should beat, which the Ravens didn't do last year (see Titans and Lions).

But I don't take too much stock in preseason or early season polls. I don't take a lot of stock in early season games either. Teams can change drastically during the course of a season. But I just can't see the Ravens losing to Oakland.

The Raiders have chemistry problems already, and have two starting receivers who have a desire to play elsewhere. They can't stop the run, and are coming off a short week after playing on Monday Night. The Ravens are home for the first time this season, and coming off a big win. The crowd will be crazy, and this has win all over it.

The upset special is not possible. I'm not buying the "On any given Sunday" line in this game.

Posted by Mike Preston at 9:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

The Ravens are keeping it a secret how they will defend the Raiders vertical passing game, and it will be interesting to see which cornerback matches up with Oakland receiver Randy Moss. The Raiders have an abundance of speed in Moss and fellow receivers Ronald Curry and Jerry Porter (if he plays). Samari Rolle is the Ravens best pure cover guy, but Chris McAlister matches up better physically with Moss. Another key will be getting pressure on quarterback Aaron Brooks, because the Raiders have trouble pass blocking.

Posted by Mike Preston at 10:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

Middle linebacker Ray Lewis was named the AFC Defensive Player of the week. No offense to Lewis, but outside linebacker Bart Scott had a better game.

Lewis had 10 tackles, knocked down three passes and had one sack. Scott had nine tackles, had two sacks and tipped the pass that tackle Haloti Ngata intercepted and returned 60 yards. Scott played well last season and had an outstanding training camp and preseason. He is on a mission this season to become recognized as one of the league's best linebackers even though he is playing in the shadow of Lewis. Keep an eye on Scott. Cleveland general manager Phil Savage recognizes his talent which is why he aggressively pursued Scott in free agency during the off-season.

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (18)
        

Wouldn't it be something if the Ravens shut out the Oakland Raiders, too? No one wants to get too carried away with the Ravens blanking the Bucs, but the Raiders looked pretty poor losing 27-0 to San Diego Monday night. The Raiders have weapons like receiver Randy Moss and running back LaMont Jordan, but the team is already in disarray. Moss has already been very critical of coach Art Shell, and quarterback Aaron Brooks is struggling. Brooks will always struggle because he lacks leadership, which he failed to show last year in New Orleans. Meanwhile, the Ravens looked sharp but they have had a habit of playing strong games and then letting up. But, it's the home opener so they should be excited. It'll be interesting.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

After Sunday's game against the Bucs, Ravens defensive tackle and top draft pick Haloti Ngata didn't have a tackle, but he did return an interception off a tipped pass 60 yards down to the Tampa Bay 9 before he basically ran himself out of bounds. It was a hot day, and apparently, the 340-pound Ngata was tired.

On Monday afternoon after the coaches reviewed the game film, Ngata was awarded one tackle. We couldn't figure out where it came from, but we're assuming Ngata got a tackle for taking himself out of bounds.

Posted by Mike Preston at 4:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)
        

Two words describe the Ravens win against Tampa Bay Sunday: impressive and encouraging.

It's too early for anyone to put them in the playoffs or Super Bowl, but it was a strong showing by the Ravens against a playoff team of a year ago, and on the road. It's a major mental step for a team which had lost 11 straight road games. The Ravens defense was well-coached and showed great team speed. This group seems like they are on a mission trying to prove last year was a fluke when the Ravens finished 6-10.

There is still concern about the offense. The Ravens had a great opening drive, but seemed to lose their rhythm after that possession. Steve McNair managed the game well, but was erratic as far as passing. He short-hopped four short passes, and his receivers bailed him out on three others. Running back Jamal Lewis was impressive, and will get better once his playing condition improves. The offensive line did a decent job of protecting McNair even though Tampa seemed to lack intensity.

The Bucs were missing two starting guards yesterday, but that's life in the NFL. Overall, a strong effort by the Ravens, one that they can build on. The win puts them in a good position to get off to a good start. They're going to need it with two games each against the Bengals and Steelers. Sometimes, the first game of the season is the toughest to win.

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

Jamal Lewis's role will not change this season. The Ravens want to run first, but have a strong enough passing game to complement the rushing attack. We've seen flashes of the old Jamal during training camp and preseason, but he is still struggling with a hip flexor. It's an injury to keep an eye on early in the season. The injury can only be healed through rest, controlled stretching and running. He cannot play with the injury because it would limit his explosiveness. Lewis says he is ready to play against the Bucs, but the Ravens list him as questionable. Lewis has to have a big year. He basically agreed to a one year deal during the off season. He is satisfied with the new contract, but not happy because he has to prove himself again. As a matter of fact, if the Ravens struggle early, it will be interesting to see how Lewis performs throughout the rest of the season. Fortunately for the Ravens, they have two other running backs in Mike Anderson and Musa Smith.

Posted by Mike Preston at 9:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
        

The Ravens' 11-game road losing streak is really not as bad as it appears. In some of those losses, they actually played well enough to win, but just lost to some quality teams, like New England and Indianapolis in 2004. They played a decent game against Pittsburgh last season. They played well against Denver last season, but Kyle Boller had a bad game. The Ravens self-destructed in losses to Detroit, Cleveland and Tennessee in 2005, but these streaks can turn in a hurry. It's like losing games by one point. Over the years, you're going to win your share and lose your share. The Ravens have a tough road game schedule in 2006, but the key is not allowing the losses to get into your head. As long as you keep your head down and work hard, it eventually turns in your favor. And actually, that's all you can do.

Posted by Mike Preston at 9:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

The Ravens are taking a gamble by only having two quarterbacks on the regular season roster, but it appears to be a trend. Before yesterday, there were about 17 teams opting to do the same thing. Apparently, there is a shortage of quality quarterbacks around the league. The Ravens, though, make you nervous because both Steve McNair and backup Kyle Boller have been injury prone. One quarterback to keep your eye on is former Vikings and Saints quarterback Todd Bouman if he hasn't signed with any team yet. Bouman, who has started six games during a five-year career, is the best of the leftovers.

Posted by Mike Preston at 7:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

Every once and a while, you're really happy about the trade that never happened. Every time I hear another story about T.O. not playing or not practicing, I can only imagine what would have happened if he had been on the Ravens' roster the last two years. The Ravens had their own internal problems without T.O., but imagine if he had been in the locker room with Ray Lewis, Deion Sanders, Ed Reed, Jamal Lewis and Corey Fuller.

It's a good thing that he went on to Dallas. Because if Bill Parcells can't handle him, no one else can, and it will probably be his last stop in the league.

Now, on to the Ravens. The Ravens put receiver Romby Bryant on the practice squad, and keep an eye on him. He's has decent potential, and in time could become a No. 3. He has good hands and runs solid routs. Also, don't be surprised if Marques Ogden, the little brother of Jonathan, finds his way back on the Ravens roster. The Ravens put reserve guard Brian Rimpf on injured reserve and Ogden might become an option down the road. He is still around the team and familiar with the Ravens offense. He has lost about 15 pounds and appears to be in pretty good shape.

Posted by Mike Preston at 9:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

I have received some complaints recently about my demeanor. People say I'm too nice, that I'm no longer sarcastic, and I'm no longer a Ravens hater. They have noticed that I have not called Brian Billick 'Compu Coach' since the season started.

Sorry, but this is the new Mike Preston. Soon after the season ended, I was told by my bosses that I needed to improve my management and writing style. If I didn't, I would be fired at the end of the 2006 season. You've seen the change. I only allow myself to talk to players for about two minutes after practice so that I can remain focused and stay on message. I've been nice to people in the office trying not to be condescending or arrogant. I love my peers, even those who rip me publicly. I have not been involved in one confrontation with a player yet this season (can't wait until the regular season opens Thursday night).

Last summer, I went out and drank a lot of Purple Kool-Aid. I love this team. I almost love the No. 2 quarterback, what's his name...yeah, that guy. So if you want negative stuff, tune into another blog. This is the new me, just like there is a new Billick, a new Ray Lewis, a new Ed Reed, a new  Chris McAlister. I heard the voices from the heavens one day on the road my way to the Owings Mills training facility. And I swear, I will not refer to Mr. Billick as 'Compu Coach' until he does something totally stupid like not getting his field goal unit on the field at the end of the half, or not knowing his punter is at practice.

Until then, we're cool, a bunch of guys hanging out.

Posted by Mike Preston at 7:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

I hope the Ravens haven't nixed the Ray-Ray pregame dance for good. It was boring the past two seasons, and it became symbolic of everything that was wrong with this team because of the star treatment for certain players. But the dance did have its time and place. One of the first questions Lewis asked when he returned to the Ravens complex during the offseason was if he was going to be allowed to dance again. I hear the Ravens haven't totally killed it, and I say let No. 52 dance on certain occasions, especially if it gets the crowd at M&T Bank Stadium juiced. Shoot, they brought back The Hustle in the 1970s and The Stones and Earth, Wind & Fire are still touring.

I say hire Lewis some new dance instructors so he can bust a few new moves, and turn him loose.

Posted by Mike Preston at 7:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)
        

The preseason is finally finished, and it was pretty uneventful. In the case of the Ravens the last two or three years, that's a pretty good thing. We saw a new Brian Billick trying to emerge in an attempt to reach into his players' souls and develop team chemistry. Middle linebacker Ray Lewis showed that his hamstring/groin injury has healed, but he might not be the most dominant linebacker on the roster (Bart Scott has been a cruncher). This is clearly Steve McNair's offensive team, and the short passing game will complement the running game. The special teams should be better because nine of the team's 10 draft picks made the roster, and spots aren't being occupied by such non-contributors as Corey Fuller, Deion Sanders and Dale Carter.

Overall, the Ravens have improved from a year ago, and they have a legitimate shot at the playoffs, just like almost every other NFL team. They have closed the gap in quarterback play with the rest of the teams in the AFC North, and McNair, Ray Lewis, Jamal Lewis and Ed Reed are healthy. The team has some fine looking rookies in tight end Quinn Sypniewski, WR Demetrius Williams, cornerback Ronnie Prude, and safety  Dawan Landry. Two other draft picks, No 1 and defensive tackle Haloti Ngata and third round cornerback David Pittman, were mild disappointments, but still have loads of potential.

But there are still major questions about this team. Can McNair throw intermediate and long passes? Can McNair and running back Jamal Lewis stay healthy for an entire season? Of course, if the Ravens have any shot at going deep into the playoffs, both the offensive and defensive lines have to develop. At the skill positions, the Ravens can match up with most teams. But in the end, it's going to be the battles on the line of scrimmages that dictate how far this team will go, and if they can at least get a wild card berth.

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)