There’s no shame in calling for a fair catch. B.J. Sams nearly lost his head when he hauled in a punt without signaling for a fair catch after the Falcons’ first offensive series of the game. Falcons fullback Corey McIntyre decked Sams at the Ravens’ 16-yard line to the oohs and aahs of the fans. Not sure if this has any meaning, but rookie Yamon Figurs handled the rest of the return duties for the first half. Other notes:

1. Defensive tackle Haloti Ngata got a rude welcome from Falcons right guard Darrell Shropshire, who pushed Ngata down to the turf during the Falcons’ second offensive series.

2. The Ravens’ defensive tackles have been knifing through the interior of the Falcons offensive line. On the Falcons’ third series, Dwan Edwards and Justin Bannan were in the backfield about a milli-second after running back Jerious Norwood took the handoff. Edwards collapsed the pocket on another play, but could not bring quarterback Chris Redman down for the sack.

3. The touchdown pass from Redman to Norwood reminded me of a similar play between Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young and tight end Bo Scaife on Nov. 12. Both featured the quarterbacks avoiding a collapsing pocket and buying time with their feet before dumping off passes to a blocker who ran into the end zone with little resistance.

4. Figurs is fast, but he may not have the bulk to be a gunner on the punt coverage unit. In the midst of the Ravens’ first punt of the second quarter, Figurs was literally pushed into the Falcons bench and taken entirely out of the play.

5. Cornerback Derrick Martin is listed at 5 feet, 10 inches and 202 pounds, but he plays like he’s much bigger. He made a nice open-field tackle of Falcons punt returner Otis Amey to prevent a 13-yard return from doing any more damage. Later in the second quarter, Martin blasted wide receiver Vincent Marshall with a hit along the left sidelines that drew howls of protest from the Falcons bench, which sought an unnecessary roughness call. One official waited a long time before appeasing Atlanta, but after a conference among the officiating crew, the flag was repealed and no penalty was assessed.

Posted by Edward Lee at 8:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

To the surprise of no one, the Ravens elected to rest 13 of 22 starters for tonight's final preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons. While we knew ahead of time that offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden, cornerback Samari Rolle (sprained ankle) and wide receiver Mark Clayton (sprained ankle) would not suit up, the team also decided to rest linebackers Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs and Bart Scott, quarterback Steve McNair, cornerback Chris McAlister, center Mike Flynn, wide receiver Derrick Mason, tight end Todd Heap and defensive end Trevor Pryce. Also, tight end Daniel Wilcox (sprained ankle) sat out.

The biggest change with the starting lineup is along the offensive line. Adam Terry, who had started the first three preseason games at right tackle, will start at left tackle for rookie Jared Gaither. Rookie Marshal Yanda will get his first start at right tackle. Also, Chris Chester slides over to center from right guard, and rookie Ben Grubbs will start at right guard. So the right side will be composed of first-year players.

Another rookie, Le'Ron McClain earns the start at fullback, blocking for starter Willis McGahee. Devard Darling will get an opportunity to audition for the No. 4 wide receiver role as he starts opposite Demetrius Williams.

Dennis Haley and Edgar Jones, both of whom are battling for a spot in a deep linebacking corps, will start in the defense's four-linebacker alignment. Gerome Sapp will fill in for Reed at free safety, and Derrick Martin will start at cornerback opposite David Pittman.

Posted by Edward Lee at 6:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Ravens got an encouraging piece of news when rookie linebacker and special teams player Antwan Barnes returned to practice today after missing the first two days of workouts this week with a recurring ankle injury.

But the news of Barnes' return was muted a bit by tight end Daniel Wilcox's absence, at least during the early portion of practice when the media is allowed to watch. Wilcox, who practiced Monday and Tuesday, has been rehabbing a sprained ankle for more than two weeks.

Also out of action today were cornerback Samari Rolle and wide receiver Mark Clayton, both of whom sustained sprained ankles in the preseason loss to the New York Giants.
Safety Ed Reed (thigh contusion) returned to practice and expects to play.

Posted by Don Markus at 11:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The warning signs for guard Keydrick Vincent's departure started in April when the Ravens made Auburn guard Ben Grubbs the top draft pick. Then shortly before training camp began, the Ravens told Vincent that second-year player Chris Chester would replace him as the starting right guard, and that Grubbs would be his backup. The team then moved Vincent to backup left guard, which was pretty much the end.

I respect Vincent because he reported to training camp in great shape after working hard during the offseason because he expected to challenge for the starting position. But the Ravens had other plans. Ravens general manage Ozzie Newsome never liked Vincent after his first season here in 2005. He thought Vincent was soft, and Vincent didn't help himself by missing substantial playing time during his two seasons here because of injuries. Vincent also never seemed to fit in with this team. There were some who thought he joked around too much, and didn't take the game seriously. I never saw that. I just saw a guy who had limited ability, but played as hard as he could.

But he was unhappy here, and he needed a new start. It would have been easier for him if the Ravens had cut him before training camp so he had time to catch on with another team. According to Newsome, he tried to make a trade for Vincent but could not get a deal in place. Vincent will catch on with another team. He's too young and too talented to be left on the streets. He'll also leave a hole as far as depth because he was just as good as Grubbs at this time in Grubbs' career, but the Ravens saved about $1.2 million in salary by cutting Vincent.

Posted by Mike Preston at 12:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
        

Free safety Ed Reed (thigh contusion), cornerback Samari Rolle (sprained ankle) and wide receiver Mark Clayton (sprained ankle) were not on the field for the portion of practice open to the media.

Rookie linebacker Antwan Barnes (swollen ankle) was present, but he stood on the sidelines while the special teams units were working.

When offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden walked out onto the field, he waved to the media contingent observing his every move.

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

The Ravens waived second-year quarterback Drew Olson, which is no big deal, and certainly not surprising. Olson was competing with Troy Smith, the rookie out of Ohio State, for the No. 3 quarterback job. Olson had outplayed Smith in the preseason, but it wasn't going to matter.

Olson was signed by the Ravens as a rookie free agent coming out in the 2006 draft. He came recommended to the Ravens by Rick Neuheisel, the team's current offensive coordinator. Smith was chosen in the fifth round by the Ravens in April and, of course, he won the Heisman. He also was picked by general manager Ozzie Newsome. So unless Olson dramatically outplayed Smith, he wasn't going to win the final quarterback spot.

Of course, Smith has the higher upside, and he is a lot more mobile than Olson, which you like in a No. 3 quarterback. But at least the contest is over, and Smith can get a lot more reps in the last preseason game now that Olson has been waived.

Posted by Mike Preston at 7:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)
        

The Ravens don't have to get down to the 75-player maximum until tomorrow, but there were several players missing from today's portion of practice open to the media, and the most glaring absence was quarterback Drew Olson. Olson was battling rookie fifth-round draft pick Troy Smith for the No. 3 position.

Other players thought to be on the bubble who were missing from practice were punter Brendan Carney, running back Greg Pruitt Jr., safety Bobby Blackshire, cornerback Terrell Maze and long snapper Nick Leeson.

Free safety Ed Reed (thigh contusion), wide receiver Mark Clayton (sprained ankle), linebacker Antwan Barnes (swollen ankle), running back P.J. Daniels (tweaked hamstring) and offensive tackle Steve Edwards (torn meniscus) were absent. Tight end Daniel Wilcox (sprained ankle) and rookie linebacker Prescott Burgess (concussion and shoulder) did take part in practice, while cornerback Samari Rolle (sprained ankle) ran sprints on his own in the end zone.

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

Backup quarterback Kyle Boller has become an easy target for criticism, but you can't blame him for last night's loss. Boller was simply dropping back to pass, got nailed and lost the football, which turned into what proved to be the game-winning touchdown for the Redskins.

Some people suggest that Boller should have protected the ball better, but he didn't have a chance to protect the ball. He had just finished his four-step drop and got crushed. He had no time to do anything.

A lot of bad things seems to happen to Boller, some of which he controls. But the fumble last night was not his fault, just a poorly executed play by the Ravens,

-- I think backup running backs Mike Anderson and Musa Smith are smelling blood. Anderson continued to play well and managed to get some tough yards against the Redskins when there were no holes. Smith is finally showing the acceleration he had before getting injured last year. He has shown good body lean. Meanwhile, starter Willis McGahee continues to struggle. It's going to continue to heat up as long as McGahee lacks consistency.

-- Let's hope quarterback Steve McNair and the Ravens continue to go downfield. In their only scoring drive against the 'Skins, McNair completed several mid-range passes, and the receivers were wide open. I think the Redskins were as surprised as everyone else that the Ravens actually went downfield. My favorite play, though, was receiver Derrick Mason running 35 yards across the field, and then watching McNair throw him a two-yard pass. Now, that's scheming.

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)
        

The Ravens and Redskins players came back on the field at 8:46 p.m. The expected kickoff is 9:09 p.m.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 8:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The weather is improving at FedEx Field, and it looks likely that the game will be played between the Ravens and the Redskins. The players will warm up for about 20 minutes, which means kickoff could be between 9-9:15 p.m.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 8:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Ravens' preseason game at the Washington Redskins has been delayed by a severe thunderstorm. According to the Redskins, they are hoping to get a weather update at 8 p.m. If the storm has cleared, both teams will get a 20-minute warm-up period before starting the game.

The rain came down heavy at 7:50 p.m. at FedEx Field and the winds have been gusty. Interestingly, the field has not been covered, which means there will be slick conditions if the game is played.

The lights at the stadium have flickered off several times. Fans have been asked to leave their seats and take cover.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 7:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The Ravens have played two preseason games, and we're still wondering what kind of Ravens team will appear in 2007. Because most of the players return from last year's 13-3 team, we expect a good year, but most fans would like to see some assurances in the preseason. The game against the 'Skins is a big one. It's the third game of the preseason, and the last chance we'll get to see most of the regulars on the field before the opener against the Bengals. I know the Ravens still have one final preseason game left against the Falcons, but that game is a wash, like the first preseason game against the Eagles.

I expect the Ravens defense to re-establish itself against the 'Skins because it was so sloppy against the Giants last week. But I would like to see Steve McNair go down field more in this game, and get some zip on some of those passes. I'd like to see some acceleration out of running back Willis McGahee, which I haven't seen in training camp or preseason games. I want to see the Ravens score touchdowns, not field goals, just to make believe this season is going to be different than past ones. I'd also like to see second-year cornerback David Pittman play well because I don't think Corey Ivy is the answer if starter Samari Rolle gets hurt and has to miss time during the regular season.

Posted by Mike Preston at 10:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)
        

Several Ravens returned to the practice field today after missing varying amounts of time because of injuries and, in one case, illness. The most noticeable was tight end Daniel Wilcox, who came back after sitting out more than two weeks with a sprained left ankle. Others who were back: defensive tackle Haloti Ngata, whose left knee was still wrapped; running back P.J. Daniels, who has been resting a sore hamstring since he tweaked it during warm-ups of the preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles; running back-return specialist Cory Ross, who sat out Wednesday's practice because of the flu.

Wide receiver Mark Clayton and cornerback Samari Rolle are still taking treatment for sprained ankles.

Posted by Don Markus at 11:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The usual suspects were missing from the portion of today's practice that was open to the media: wide receiver Mark Clayton (sprained ankle), cornerback Samari Rolle (sprained anke), tight end Daniel Wilcox (sprained ankle) and offensive tackle Steve Edwards (knee).

But two other players were absent. Defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (swollen knee) and running back Cory Ross were not there. Ngata was spotted in the hallway in shorts, but no sign of Ross.

Running back P.J. Daniels, who has not practiced since tweaking his right hamstring before the Ravens' first preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Aug. 13, jogged around the practice field without his jersey or pads.

Finally, a huge apology to wide receiver Devard Darling. In my notebook today, I wrote that Clarence Moore was the first receiver off the bench when Clayton went down in the first quarter of Sunday's contest against the New York Giants. I was wrong. Wide receivers coach Mike Johnson pulled me aside today and informed me that Darling, not Moore, was the first receiver off the bench. So thanks to Johnson for correcting me and a mea culpa to Darling for my error.

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

It's a smart move by the Ravens to use second-year player David Pittman as the starting cornerback against the Redskins. Pittman, a third-round draft pick, hasn't played up to expectations and is the only spot on a pretty good 2006 draft class. Corey Ivy is good as a nickel back, but there are questions about him being a starter in the NFL. At least now, Pittman gets his chance and if he plays well, the Ravens can put him in as a starter again if Samari Rolle gets hurt, or if Rolle falters like last season. It's preseason, a time to learn about young players.

Some Ravens fans can't understand why several publications have picked the Steelers to win the AFC North over the Ravens. I don't think it's going to happen, either, but there is some logic behind the choice. Usually, when teams struggle like the Steelers did last season, a lot of the blame goes to the coach, which in this case was Bill Cowher. With a new coach, the players will rally and try to prove it was indeed Cowher's fault, and not theirs. I think the Steelers will play well this season, especially with Big Ben healthy again at quarterback, but they haven't closed the gap enough to overtake the Ravens.

Do you ever get the feeling that nose tackle Kelly Gregg would be a devastating loss if he missed the season because of an injury? Without Gregg, there's a big hole in the middle.

Posted by Mike Preston at 11:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)
        

The Ravens' first practice since Sunday's 13-12 loss to the New York Giants did not include wide receiver Mark Clayton (sprained ankle), cornerback Samari Rolle (sprained ankle), tight end Daniel Wilcox (sprained ankle), running back P.J. Daniels (tweaked hamstring) and offensive tackle Steve Edwards (ankle). Defensive tackle Atiyyah Ellison also was missing from the portion of practice open to the media, but it's unclear the reasons for his absence.

The good news is that defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (knee), right guard Chris Chester (sprained foot) and linebacker Antwan Barnes (twisted ankle) were suited and taking part in drills. Ngata, who banged his left knee on the turf Sunday night, had the knee and calf heavily wrapped. Linebacker Bart Scott also had his left calf wrapped.

Rookie wide receiver Matt Willis left practice, favoring his right leg as he grimaced in pain. But he returned to practice a few minutes later and ran routes with the rest of the receivers.

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

"Potential" is a big word in athletics, and sometimes we need to be careful when using it. Because some of the young players showed promise early, some fans assumed the Ravens were going to instantly have a good offensive line. It doesn't happen that way. It takes time, and in some cases years to develop a really good offensive line. The Ravens have a good mesh of young and old talent, but this group hasn't played together consistently. Adam Terry is making a transition from left tackle to right tackle. Chris Chester has yet to play a full season at guard or center. Left guard Jason Brown is just beginning his second full season, and rookie left tackle Jared Gaither is just that -- a rookie.

The transition won't get any easier for awhile. Veteran Jonathan Ogden, because of an injured toe, has yet to take a snap in the preseason at left tackle and No. 1 draft pick Ben Grubbs, out of Auburn, hasn't become the No. 1 starter at right guard yet. It could be well into the season before we see improved and steady play, but the future still looks bright. Until then, though, keep your fingers crossed and hope quarterback Steve McNair can stay upright, and running back Willis McGahee can find glimmers of light running the ball.

Posted by Mike Preston at 4:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

After two preseason games in 2007, I still have the same question about Steve McNair as I had after two preseason games in 2006.

Does he have the arm strength to take the Ravens deep into the playoffs? I'm still not convinced that he can throw the intermediate and deep balls consistently. He floated one last night against the Giants, throwing it into double coverage, and the pass was intercepted.

Both Indianapolis – in the divisional playoff game – and the Bengals -- in their November meeting with the Ravens -- played a two-deep zone and allowed McNair to complete the short passes, but both teams made sure they tackled well. The Ravens never generated much offense in either game. After a full regular season and offseason, I'm not sure much has changed as far as McNair's arm strength or the offense. At least, it's something to keep an eye on.

Posted by Mike Preston at 1:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
        

Injuries are beginning to take a toll on both the Ravens and New York Giants. Cornerback Samari Rolle and wide receiver Mark Clayton both went into the locker room for X-rays on their ankles, but both were negative.

What was interesting was who came in to replace the two starters. Nickel back Corey Ivy replaced Rolle, and Derrick Martin, who was inactive for eight of the team’s first 11 games last season, was the first player in as the nickel back.

Clarence Moore, who caught two passes for one yard last season, joined Demetrius Williams in the offense’s two-receiver set. Moore caught a pass for four yards in the first quarter.

New York lost cornerback Sam Madison (pulled hamstring), wide receivers Michael Jennings (ruptured Achilles tendon), Steve Smith (concussion) and safety Will Demps (dislocated elbow).

WHO’S RUNNING THE ROCK?: Forget quarterback controversy. Mike Anderson carried the football three times for 37 yards, McGahee six times for three yards.

WAVING THE YELLOW FLAG: After incurring just three penalties for 23 yards against the Philadelphia Eagles last Monday, the Ravens had committed nine penalties for 45 yards in the first half. Five of those penalties were assessed to the defense.

LLOYD LETS IT GO: Kickoff specialist Rhys Lloyd didn’t need much time to acclimate himself to American football. The native of Dover, England, booted his two kickoffs into the end zone, one resulting in a touchback.

Posted by Edward Lee at 9:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
        

After the Ravens’ final training camp practice yesterday, coach Brian Billick congratulated them on a successful summer at McDaniel College but cautioned them about letting down in Sunday's nationally televised preseason game.

“I don’t know that they will,” Billick said later to reporters. “But there’s a lot of conventional thinking says that’s a trap that you could fall into. We want to make sure we don’t do that.”

STUCK ON YOU: Like they’ve done for years, the players closed camp by hazing the rookies. Quarterback Troy Smith, linebacker Prescott Burgess and receivers Yamon Figurs and Matt Willis got thrown into tubs filled with ice and then collectively got taped to the goalpost, where they got doused with Gatorade and baby powder.

When Smith was lying in the tub with his arms taped to his side, linebacker Ray Lewis jokingly asked the Heisman Trophy winner to strike the “Heisman pose.”

WORTH THE WAIT?: Held up for visa issues, Rhys Lloyd joined the Ravens on the final day of camp. The English kicker quickly got everyone’s attention when he nearly cleared the end zone on one kickoff.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 1:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Ikechuku Ndukwe can play either guard or center for the Ravens. After stints with the New Orleans Saints and Washington Redskins, Ndukwe was signed by the Ravens last season, appearing in five regular-season games and the playoff contest.

Despite his success in football, Ndukwe admitted that his first love was soccer. “I hated football,” he said. “Soccer is physical, but it’s not that physical. And I still wasn’t at the size where I was big enough to be an O-lineman. So I was a blocking fullback, and it was rough. I was getting hit, and I hated it. A year goes by, and I started to understand what was going on. If you’ve never played football in your life and you don’t know what first-and-10 means, you don’t know what downs mean, I had no idea what was going on. I was running around like a chicken with its head cut off.”

Ndukwe’s parents went to West Virginia and still talk about former Mountaineers quarterback Jeff Hostetler. But their first priority was education for Ndukwe, his two brothers and a sister. “We didn’t have cable until probably I was well into middle school and maybe not until I was in high school,” he said. “There was no TV allowed in the house. So as you can imagine, education was stressed because of my parents coming from Nigeria and coming to America. Education was what set them free. … They stressed it, and that’s how it’s been.”

Despite being recruited by major football programs like Ohio State, Michigan and Stanford, Ndukwe, who lived in Ohio, chose Northwestern. “I started playing in the eighth grade and [when] we got into high school, it became an opportunity to get into college,” Ndukwe said. “When it came down to it, I chose Northwestern because it was the best mix between academics and athletics. In ’95 and ’96, they had the bowl years. I said worst case scenario, if I was to get hurt, as far as my father was concerned, you should get the most out of your education. I’m happy I chose Northwestern University. It was definitely a rougher way to go. I could have gone somewhere a little easier academically.”

Posted by Edward Lee at 10:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Several veteran players have told rookie linebacker Antwan Barnes to expect the FedEx truck soon.

They believe Barnes will be fined by the league for his hit on Eagles punter Sav Rocca, a hit that drew heavy criticism from some of the Eagles.There was no penalty on the play.

"Rocca is a pretty big boy," said Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan of the 6-foot-4, 265-pound Rocca. "He was looking to make the tackle and Barnes made a clean hit as far as I was concerned."

Agreed. And if you aren't prepared to get smacked, then don't put your big butt on the field.

Someone out there is a former Roller Derby fan. Please call me at the office. I loved Little Richard. Do you remember Leroy "Bad Boy" Gonzales, Buddy Atkins and Moo-Moo the Cow? How about Roberta Mitchell?

Posted by Mike Preston at 5:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
        

There were no chants of "Boooooooooooth," as there used to be at Cole Field House when he was playing for Maryland. Ravens fans here at McDaniel College for the next-to-last day of training camp have to save their lungs for Todd Heeeeeeaaaaaapppppp.

But Booth, the former Terp star turned assistant coach, got his share of attention this morning in Westminster. And most of it had to do with the commitment the Terps just received from St. Frances star Sean Mosley, the latest Baltimore player to announce he was headed to College Park.

"As a young player growing up in Baltimore, having the opportunity to play at the University of Maryland and come back as a coach, it's really good to walk around and be recognized for things that you've accomplished. In fact it was the first time I actually got congratulated as a coach,'' Booth said.

Booth came out with some family members as the guest of Craig Singleterry, a boyhood friend who works security for the Ravens. Since returning to Baltimore after playing briefly with the Chicago Bulls -- he has an NBA championship ring to prove it -- Booth became a huge Ravens fan through his longtime friendship with former Dunbar star (and a Raven for a short time), Tommy Polley.

But today was a first for Booth. "First time up here,'' Booth said. "Been busy."

We know what he's been up to lately. And just for old time's sake, here's one more "Boooooooooooth." After all, he just helped the Terps win a huge recruiting battle.

Posted by Don Markus at 1:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Antwan Barnes was a second-day draft pick, but the rookie linebacker has impressed the Ravens' front office and coaching staff with his pass-rushing ability and his hustle. Barnes has been so proficient at getting to the quarterback that he has joined the first-team defense on obvious passing downs.

Barnes, however, has been limited by a twisted right ankle that he injured on Aug. 1 and re-aggravated on Wednesday. Barnes said he’s never had a problem with his ankles. “I have no idea,” he said in response to why his ankle keeps flaring up on him. “It’s crazy right now.”

Barnes said it has been difficult to balance the need to be smart about protecting his ankle with his desire to return to the field. “It’s real tough because you’ve got people like Ray [Lewis] and they’ll be like, ‘Just calm down,’” he said. “I’ll be in practice and I want to practice so bad and I want to play this game because you want to show what you’ve got. But at the same time, you’ve got to think about your future, and that’s probably most likely what I’m thinking about, the future and do I want to play this season.”

Barnes did not make a good impression on former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Ike Reese, who was livid after watching a replay of Barnes’ punishing yet legal hit on Eagles punter Saverio Rocca in the fourth quarter of the Ravens’ victory on Monday night. Here’s what Reese, who was providing color commentary for Philadelphia-area viewers, said during the telecast:
“That’s a cheap shot that was unnecessary, and I tell you what: If I was out there playing, that’s exactly what I would have did,” Reese said, praising wide receiver Michael Gasperson for decking Barnes after the play. “That’s totally unnecessary. You don’t take shots on kickers.”

Barnes’ response? “I actually remember when I met Ike Reese when I was in high school and he was playing. He was a very good guy. … The thing that I have to say about that is, it’s football. If you’re trying to go tackle somebody, somebody’s going to go block you. I apologize to him [Rocca] if it hurt him or shook him up or anything like that. But once again, it’s football.”

Posted by Edward Lee at 11:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

Keyonta Marshall may be hard-pressed to crack the Ravens’ corps of defensive tackles, but the 26-year-old registered the most impressive play of the morning practice session when he got a hand on a Troy Smith pass and hauled in the interception. During the return, Marshall fumbled the football, but recovered it to avoid any punishment from the defensive coaches. It might not be enough to catapult Marshall over the likes of Dwan Edwards and Atiyyah Ellison, but it was entertaining.

INJURY REPORT: Wide receiver Derrick Mason missed practice with what coach Brian Billick called “a little bit of a shoulder going on.” But the injury is not considered serious. Right guard Chris Chester (foot), tight end Daniel Wilcox (ankle) and offensive tackle Steve Edwards (knee), did not practice, but defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (thigh and knee) took part in 11-on-11 drills for the first time in two weeks. Rookie linebacker Antwan Barnes (ankle) and running back P.J. Daniels (hamstring) ran on their own.

SCOTT GOES DEEP: Linebacker Bart Scott is reliving his college days when he was a strong safety at Southern Illinois. During one play on an 11-on-11 drill, free safety Ed Reed blitzed, and Scott sprinted back as the deep safety. Despite standing in at 6 feet, 2, 240 pounds, Scott showed off some serious speed in patrolling the vertical lanes.

OPPORTUNISTIC DEFENSE: The defense jumped all over the offense this morning. Linebackers Ray Lewis and Prescott Burgess and cornerback Chris McAlister each grabbed interceptions, and linebacker Terrell Suggs pounced on a botched snap between quarterback Drew Olson and center Ikechuku Ndukwe.

Posted by Edward Lee at 11:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Veteran cornerback Chris McAlister, who definitely has shown signs of maturing the past two seasons, wants to make 2007 his best year ever. According to one Ravens official, McAlister has been in the weight room almost every day of training camp, sometimes twice a day. That's impressive.

The Ravens, in particular general manager Ozzie Newsome, are doing a good job of pumping up Eric DeCosta, the director of college scouting. If the team keeps drafting well, he'll be heading to another team soon just like Phil Savage, who was in the same capacity with the Ravens before running the Browns.

Posted by Mike Preston at 5:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

The Ravens have to be a little nervous about the number of players doing radio shows during the season. There also seems to be heated competition between the Ravens' flagship station, WBAL, and the former flagship station, WJFK.

WBAL is supposed to have wide receiver Derrick Mason on Monday nights and coach Brian Billick on Tuesdays. WJFK is supposed to counter with Ray Lewis on Mondays, Bart Scott on Tuesdays, Jonathan Ogden on Wednesdays and Willis McGahee on Thursdays. It has to irk WBAL because the station spent a lot of money for the rights to the Ravens.

But since everybody has a show, WBAL might consider countering with equipment manager Ed Carroll on Wednesdays, trainer Bill Tessendorf on Thursdays and mascots Edgar, Allan and Poe on Fridays.

If the Ravens win consistently, then all of these radio shows won't be a big deal. But if they start losing, there is the potential for trouble. Anyway, it should be interesting. I can't wait to hear "Live With Ed Carroll," and a segment of "High Ankle Sprain With Bill T."

Posted by Mike Preston at 10:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
        

Rookie linebacker Joe Martin was having a fairly unremarkable run through Ravens training camp until he stripped Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jermaine Jamison of the football in the fourth quarter of Monday night’s win against the Eagles. The following is a sample of an interview with Martin, whose comments will be published in tomorrow’s Sun.

Martin acknowledged feeling slightly overwhelmed with the Ravens’ defensive playbook. "They installed a lot of the defense up front so that we would have the opportunity to nail it down by the first preseason game,” he said. “It’s hard. It’s a complex NFL scheme, and it takes a lot of work and dedication. It’s hard to say where I am today, but as far as the first game, I think it went well. There’s always room to grow with every game you play.”

Martin said the biggest challenge in making the transition to the pro level wasn’t the speed of the game, but the quality of players in training camp. “In college, sometimes there aren’t qualified players all around you, but in the NFL, there’s a great player in every position,” he said. “It makes you realize that you’ve got to do your job because the guy next to you is going to be doing his.”

Despite being an undrafted free agent who signed with the Ravens in May, Martin said he has resisted putting any pressure on himself to make the team. “I don’t look at it like that,” he said. “I look at it as you do the best you can, you go 100 percent, you do what you need to do, and the rest will take care of itself.”

Posted by Edward Lee at 10:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Ravens had to cut their morning practice 65 minutes short because of a heavy rainstorm that produced thunder and lightning. The Ravens will hold their afternoon
practice at 2:15 p.m. at McDaniel College. The Ravens will make up any lost work there.

Still, when cutting practice short becomes major news, that's a sign that this has been a smooth training camp.

GREEN LIGHT FOR GREGG?: Nose tackle Kelly Gregg continues to increase his workload after missing most of training camp with thigh and knee injuries. Coach Brian Billick said Gregg could possibly be ready for the second preseason game. But knowing the Ravens, they might still play it cautious with a veteran like Gregg.

BARNES AFTERMATH: Rookie pass rusher Antwan Barnes did not practice but he was out on the field moving around. Barnes injured his ankle Wednesday and needed to be carted off the field. But the Ravens don't expect him to miss substantial time. "I think he's OK," Billick said during the downpour.

EDWARDS COULD BE OUT: Reserve offensive lineman Steve Edwards suffered a major knee injury and the Ravens might have to make a decision about his status, Billick said.

LINE SHUFFLE: Starting right guard Chris Chester remained out with a sprained foot. First-round pick Ben Grubbs continues to replace Chester with the starting offense, and starting left guard Jason Brown is filling in for Chester as the team's backup center.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 9:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Antwan Barnes, the promising rookie pass rusher, was carted off the field toward the end of the afternoon practice.

Barnes was holding his ankle after getting injured in a lineman drill.

Team officials said there was no immediate update on Barnes' injury.

"Hopefully, it's not serious and he'll be back soon," defensive coordinator Rex Ryan said.
If Barnes is out for an extended period, that likely would increase Jarret Johnson's duties as a rush end.

MOVING ON UP: Ben Grubbs, the rookie first-round pick, spent his first practice working with the starting offense. Because Chris Chester (sprained foot) did not practice, Grubbs played right guard for the first-team offense. By the way Grubbs is progressing, one can only wonder whether Chester will give up this spot.

MOVING ON DOWN: Devard Darling, who is trying to secure one of the last spots on the roster, didn't help himself during team drills. As a fifth-year receiver, Darling should know the offense by now. But with the defense blitzing, Darling failed to run a "hot" route and instead blocked downfield. Kyle Boller's throw sailed to the spot where Darling should have been.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 5:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

I don't know if we will see this in the preseason, but I would like to see running back Cory Ross get some carries with the first-team offense. Ross is small and isn't a feature back, but he carries his pads well. He accelerates through a hole and usually has his shoulder pads square at the line of scrimmage. He had a fumbling problem last year but seems to have cleared it up. He had success against the Eagles with the reserve units, but it would be interesting to see how he competes against a first-team defense. He looks like he might be able to help the Ravens on third-down passing situations.

The Ravens have put a few more crossing patterns in their offense. It wasn't on full display Monday night, but last week in practice they ran Demetrius Williams on a post route and then had Derrick Mason slide underneath from the other side. It worked well in training camp practice for a touchdown.

Maybe the Ravens are on to something.

Other observations:

Sometimes preseason games are like those old roller derby contests where the home team usually wins. Against the Eagles Monday night, you knew the Ravens were going to come out fired up and ready to play. They wanted to make a strong showing in front of the home crowd. The Eagles played as if they didn't care and held out some starters. Now, if the Eagles were at home, it might have been a different story. I haven't seen this kind of home cooking since Little Richard and Jim Trotter were skating for the old Baltimore War-Cats.

Posted by Mike Preston at 4:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

Here are a few odds and ends through the first half of the Ravens’ first preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles at M&T Bank Stadium tonight.

1. Rookie linebacker Antwan Barnes lined up with the first-string defense on two passing plays. He added a sack of Eagles quarterback Kelly Holcomb on the first play of the second quarter.

2. The Ravens' offense opened with a traditional two-receiver, one-fullback set and Justin Green lined up at fullback instead of fourth-round pick Le’Ron McClain.

3. When the offense went to a single-back formation, running back Willis McGahee carried the ball four times for 20 yards, including a 16-yard gain between left guard Jason Brown and left tackle Jared Gaither.

4. Quarterback Steve McNair played just one series, but it was a brilliant series. Six completions in eight pass attempts for 73 yards and a 6-yard touchdown pass to tight end Quinn Sypniewski. McNair was replaced by Kyle Boller.

5. When Boller came in at quarterback, right guard Chris Chester replaced Mike Flynn at center, first-round pick Ben Grubbs replaced Chester at right guard, and Musa Smith succeeded McGahee at running back.

6. Kicker Matt Stover converted a 50-yard field goal. Meanwhile, Eagles kicker David Akers, who at 32 years of age is seven years younger than Stover, missed a 43-yard attempt wide right. Stover also connected on a 41-yarder in the first half.

7. It appeared the night was over for the Eagles’ Victor Abiamiri after the defensive end from Gilman and Notre Dame injured his shoulder on his second play of the game while tackling Ravens running back Musa Smith. But Abiamiri returned.

8. Smith appeared to require attention from the Ravens’ medical staff toward the end of the second quarter. Eagles return specialist Jeremy Bloom (toe) and defensive tackle LaJuan Ramsey (ankle) went into the locker room for further treatment before halftime.

Posted by Edward Lee at 8:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)
        

At 22, free safety Bobby Blackshire is the third-youngest player in Ravens training camp. (Only offensive tackle Jared Gaither and cornerback Derrick Martin are younger.) A longer interview with Blackshire will be published in tomorrow’s paper, but here’s a preview with the two-time first-team All-Conference USA choice and three-year starter at Tulsa.

Despite his success at Tulsa and the invitation to Ravens training camp, Blackshire was very close to quitting football in spring 2005. "It was a multiple of things that almost made me quit," he said. "But I had some good people around me who told me not to quit. I have to give credit to my mom, my coach and my girlfriend."

Blackshire said he felt conflicted about whether to continue his career. "I didn’t really want to quit, but I had to worry about school," he said. "I was thinking about it for one day and then the next day, I was back out there playing because I love to play. I don’t know. I guess I had a bad day."

In a summer of sequels, Blackshire said there is one sequel that he refuses to watch. "I haven’t even watched ‘The Grudge 2," and I won’t watch it," he said, calling "The Grudge" the scariest movie he has ever seen. "That was crazy."

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

1. Defensive tackle Haloti Ngata might be on the verge of a Pro Bowl year. He reported in great shape for training camp (342 pounds -- three pounds less than his playing weight), and has been outstanding in practices. Not only might he be the strongest player on the roster, but he has incredibly fast feet. There are times when he has crippled the Ravens running game by himself in practice, and he is only in his second year. He has a strong work ethic and he will only get better.

2. Rookie Yamon Figurs keeps getting better each practice, but he still has a ways to go. The problem with Figurs, like a lot of young players, is that he has to develop consistency. He does have a good burst and does get separation in and out of the breaks.

3. I'm not trying to start a quarterback controversy here because Steve McNair has some intangibles Kyle Boller doesn't, but Boller seems to have outplayed him during the last couple of days in practice. Boller's passes have a lot more zip.

4. Note to rookie offensive tackle Jared Gaither: Watch the holding, pal. That big body of yours can't hide everything.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
        

Damien Linson is a rookie trying to crack the Ravens roster as a wide receiver. But Linson achieved similar success in basketball, where he was named the Player of the Year in North Carolina in 2003. A larger Q&A with Linson will be published in tomorrow’s paper, but here’s a morsel of that interview.

Linson talked at length about his playing days on the hardwood. At one point, coaches from Wake Forest, East Carolina, Appalachian State and North Carolina A&T visited Plymouth High School to recruit the point guard. His best game was in the quarterfinal of the state championships in his senior year. "I scored 36 points. I know I had double-digit steals and double-digit assists. The defense that we ran, we full court-pressed the entire game. I averaged almost double-digit steals every game because I was in the middle of the press and I would just jump the pass."

While he watched and studied other point guards in the NBA, Linson said he never singled out one particular player as his role model. "I just tried to look at all of the best players and take a little from everybody. You could say that they were teaching me without even knowing. Just watching them, I was using some of the steps and some of the tactics that they used."

And there are times when Linson reflects back on those days and wonders how his life would have unfolded if he had pursued basketball instead of football. "I do all of the time, man. But who’s to say? It was a transition to make, but at the end of the day, I’m happy with it."

Posted by Edward Lee at 11:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

I wish the preseason games were starting now because there is very little left to get out of training camp.

Like most NFL teams, the Ravens have hit very little. Because of the OTAs and numerous minicamps, there is no reason to.

Also, the Ravens have a lot of veterans and their starting lineups are pretty much set. But at least in these preseason games, we'll get to see some of these rookies in what might be an outstanding class.

The Ravens have several offensive linemen loaded with potential in Jared Gaither, Ben Grubbs and Marshal Yanda. They have three good linebacking prospects in Antwan Barnes, Prescott Burgess and Edgar Jones.

If it weren't for the fans being able to watch practices, get autographs and connect with the players, NFL teams would do away with training camp.

Posted by Mike Preston at 6:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

Anthony Bryant is a third-year defensive tackle competing with Dwan Edwards and Atiyyah Ellison for a spot. Bryant, who spent last season with the Detroit Lions and the 2005 season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has earned the nickname "Calves" from his teammates for his enormous calves, which measure 20 inches in circumference.

But Bryant’s first nickname was "Bear," which was given to him by a childhood friend Stanley Davis because of Bryant’s girth as a teenager in Newbern, Ala. Tragically, Davis drowned in a lake during a family picnic during Bryant’s senior year in high school. "He was my main motivator," Bryant said of Davis. "It hurt for a long time, almost every day. He was my mentor and a great role model."

Bryant, who built his calves by completing 1,000 calf raises with 100-pound weights daily, said his first sport was basketball. "I played football because I didn’t have a ride home from school after basketball practice," said Bryant, a 6-foot-3 power forward who was recruited by West Virginia and Pittsburgh for basketball. "They wanted me to be another Charles Barkley."

Bryant, who went to Alabama for football, said he didn’t understand the fuss about the heat wave that was baking Westminster for the past week. "The heat here is not even close," he said. "It’s like December around here."

Posted by Edward Lee at 2:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The receivers and cornerbacks went back and forth during today's morning practice session.

The receivers got the upper hand first during one-on-one drills. Rookie Yamon Figurs torched Willie Gaston, Devard Darling beat Evan Oglesby, and rookie Leo Bookman schooled Jamaine Winborne on 40-yard touchdown passes.

The momentum shifted to the secondary during 11-on-11 and seven-on-seven drills. Winborne, Derrick Martin, Bobby Blackshire and Terrell Maze knocked down passes to tight end Quinn Sypniewski, and receivers Matt Willis, Darling and Mark Clayton, respectively.

INJURY REPORT: Tight end Daniel Wilcox missed practice with a sprained left ankle, and coach Brian Billick said the team is being cautious with Wilcox. Safety Ed Reed (ankle) and cornerback Samari Rolle (head) returned to practice. Defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (thigh) took part in individual drills.

CONDITIONING CONTINUES: The players are relentless about staying in shape. Running back Willis McGahee knocked out some push-ups during the seven-on-seven drill. After practice, Clayton, Derrick Mason, Demetrius Williams and Dawan Landry ran wind sprints from sideline to sideline.

KOCH IS COOKING: After fumbling the first snap, punter Sam Koch snapped off at least three punts of 50 yards and a 48-yarder.

STUDY HALL: Fans need to study their rosters a little bit harder. One fan called out to defensive tackle Haloti Ngata by yelling, "N-A-G-A-T-A!" (The "g" is silent.) And a score of fans screamed "REED!" at a player wearing a skullcap on the practice field. That player was Mason. 

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

1. Last year at this time, running back Musa Smith was looking good in practice. He had good vision and burst. There was talk about him possibly getting more and more playing time behind starter Jamal Lewis. But so far in training camp, has hasn't been real impressive. He's dropped a lot of passes coming out of the backfield, and I'm starting to wonder if that neck injury last season has caused him to become hesitant. We'll see in the preseason games.

2. To be honest, I haven't watched him very closely because he has always been automatic. But every time I do watch Matt Stover, he is missing field goal attempts. Stover has a "get out of jail free" card because he has bailed the Ravens out of so many situations. But like Smith, I'd like to see him succeed in the preseason.

3. This was a scary sight today: Tight end Todd Heap blocked Ray Lewis five yards down the field on a running play. Of course, he did have an angle but that's not supposed to happen, not five yards anyway.

4. Let's all give receiver Clarence Moore a standing ovation. He is back on the practice field and had a nice, long reception from Kyle Boller. Moore even stretched out diving to pull the ball in on his fingertips. Even more surprising then the catch itself, Moore didn't get hurt.

5. Keep an eye on rookie quarterback Troy Smith. He keeps getting better and better. He had a nice touch pass over the middle in the morning session, one of the few times he has shown some touch.

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
        

In his rookie season last year, cornerback Ronnie Prude recorded nine tackles, three deflected passes and two interceptions, including returning one for a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints. At this year's training camp, the Ravens have been experimenting with Prude at safety -- a topic that will be in tomorrow's paper.

Despite what many would call quality numbers from a first-year player, Prude said there's room for improvement. "I left a lot of plays out there on the field that I should have made," he said. "There’s still stuff that I have to get better at. The biggest challenge is going out there and finishing plays. My biggest thing is that when I’m out there, I want to get my hands on the ball and score. I want to be a play-maker out there."

Prude has a one-year-old son named Braylen, who has altered his father's perspective on life. "Being a father involves a lot of responsibility," Prude said. "You’ve got to set your life aside and focus on your child’s life and giving him the right examples. It’s something that I love to do. He’s my heart, my right-hand man."

Prude is related to former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Anthony Carter, but Prude said the two have never talked. "I just know that we’re cousins because when I was growing up, my grandma would always tell me, 'That’s your cousin,'" he said. "But I watched him as I was growing up. I watched him and Cris Carter and all of those guys. He was a good receiver."

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

One of the NFL's top secondaries was running on half speed.

That's because two starters -- cornerback Samari Rolle and safety Ed Reed -- both didn't practice. But coach Brian Billick said after practice that neither injury was serious.

Rolle got a "ding" on Tuesday, when running back Mike Anderson ran through him in a red-zone drill. "He thinks his name is Sammy and not Samari right now," Billick said.

Reed tweaked his ankle.

STATUS UNKNOWN: Tight end Daniel Wilcox sustained what appeared to be an ankle injury and left the field with a trainer midway through practice. He did walk off without needing any help.

The Ravens haven't said how serious it is. "I'm not sure what Dan's situation was," Billick said.

NEW SPOT: Ronnie Prude made an impact last season as a rookie cornerback. Now, he's spending some time at safety.

The Ravens only have three experienced safeties in Reed, Dawan Landry and Gerome Sapp. One of their goals was to find a fourth one. It seems like Prude will have a shot at that spot.

ROUGH DAY: Backup quarterback Kyle Boller had one of his roughest practices of training camp.

First, he threw behind tight end Quinn Sypniewski on a lob pass into the end zone. That left Billick shaking his head for a while.

Then, in a matter of minutes, Boller fumbled a snap from center.

STRETCHING OUT: Clarence Moore made the best catch of this camp when he dove to haul in a 41-yard pass from Kyle Boller. It looked like the throw was too far ahead of him, but Moore went airborne to make the catch.

It was a shocking play because it's easy to forget Moore is still on the team. It seems like he hasn't been on the field since Denver cornerback Champ Bailey made that interception in front of him in the end zone last season.

TIME OFF: The Ravens won't return to the playing field until Friday morning. Billick canceled this afternoon's practice, and the Ravens already had Thursday off.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 11:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

1. The Ravens have learned their lesson from 2001, when they entered training camp with no depth at running back and then found themselves crippled after Jamal Lewis went down with a season-ending knee injury.

Now, the Ravens have one of the deepest backfields in the league. Willis McGahee is a legitimate featured back. Mike Anderson is a dependable backup who could find his niche in the Ravens' one-back formations. Musa Smith is an above-average third-down back when he's healthy. And P.J. Daniels, a fourth-round pick in 2006, has become a favorite of the coaching and personnel staff.

2. While the Ravens had special teams practice in the McDaniel College gym, offensive coordinator Rick Neuheisel was working with Drew Olson and Troy Smith on the field. They were going over how to attack different coverages. This will be an interesting battle for the No. 3 quarterback spot, and both quarterbacks are working hard to win it.

3. By moving a couple of training camp practices indoors and canceling an afternoon one, coach Brian Billick has left himself open for criticism by adjusting his schedule to avoid the excessive heat. Some think Billick is too soft on his players. Billick thinks he is being smart by not exposing them to potentially dangerous situations.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 4:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

With temperatures nearly reaching triple digits, all of the Ravens were having a tough day. But cornerback Samari Rolle had the worst one.

First in team drills, he cut off an out route perfectly and was in perfect position for an interception. But receiver Mark Clayton made a tremendous play to get to the sideline and break up the pick.

Then, in a red-zone play, running back Mike Anderson raced up the middle and had just one defender to beat to reach the end zone -- Rolle. Anderson plowed over Rolle to score, and receiver Derrick Mason put some salt into Rolle's wounded ego. "You need some help out there, double-deuce," Mason told Rolle, who wears No. 22.

CLOSED PRACTICE: The Ravens will try to beat the afternoon heat today by practicing indoors, which is closed to the public. It is a one-hour special teams practice.

TIME OFF: The Ravens will practice tomorrow morning, but they have canceled the afternoon one. Coach Brian Billick said they shut down the second workout because of the heat and because it's a reward for the players practicing so well.

Because the players already have Thursday off, they won't have to report until Friday morning after tomorrow's morning practice.

STRONG UP THE MIDDLE: New Ravens running back Willis McGahee showed off his strong running up the middle today. On four straight plays inside the red zone, McGahee powered his way in between the tackles before reaching the end zone on a one-yard run.

SIGN THAT BALTIMORE LOVES FOOTBALL A LITTLE TOO MUCH: When the special teams players -- kicker Matt Stover, punter Sam Koch and long snapper Matt Katula -- finished their workout on another field and walked onto the main practice field, the crowd gave them a rousing cheer that lasted nearly a minute. 

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 11:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

1. The Ravens should start getting rookie offensive tackle Jared Gaither -- out of Maryland -- some reps at right tackle as well as left tackle. Gaither has been working at left tackle in place of injured Jonathan Odgen, and he has shown some potential. Meanwhile, it's questionable if Adam Terry can play on the right side. Gaither played on the right side at times at Maryland so it would be wise to get him ready. It's always good to prepare for war in time of peace.

2. Edgar Jones, a rookie free agent outside linebacker out of Southeast Missouri, is a long shot to make the roster, but he is relentless in pursuit of ball carriers, especially to the opposite side of the field. He has been impressive along with fellow rookie linebackers Antwan Barnes and Prescott Burgess.

By the way, someone needs to tell Burgess quarterbacks are off limit during practice. He got a piece of Kyle Boller on a roll out in the morning session.

3. In the battle for No. 3 quarterback, both Drew Olson and Troy Smith showed excellent arm strength, rifling touchdown passes from inside the 10-yard line during the morning session. It's going to be an interesting preseason for both of these guys.

4. According to a former Ravens player who played for both Brian Billick and Bill Belichick, the difference in their training camps is that Belichick is more demanding, and he doesn't mind when players fight. That's a no-no for Billick. Belichick would allow players to fight, watch and then when it was over, resume practice. That's my kind of guy.

Posted by Mike Preston at 7:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

Wide receiver Matt Willis played only two years of football at UCLA, but his speed and hands earned him a training-camp invitation from the Ravens this summer. The 5-foot-11, 185-pound rookie will be hard-pressed to crack a roster that includes Derrick Mason, Mark Clayton, Demetrius Williams, Devard Darling, Clarence Moore and third-round pick Yamon Figurs, but Willis nearly grabbed the spotlight with a five-yard catch that fell one yard short of the end zone in Saturday's scrimmage against the Washington Redskins.

Although Willis didn't score, he drew an unnecessary roughness penalty on Redskins cornerback John Eubanks, who shoved Willis after the play. The penalty gave the Ravens a first-and-goal from the 1-yard line, and the offense scored two plays later on a touchdown by running back P.J. Daniels. "I thought I fumbled, so I hopped on it. The next thing I know he was pushing me," Willis said of Eubanks. "He kind of lost his cool or something. So we'll take those extra six inches and get us closer."

Willis said he feels like his development is moving at a good rate. "I struggled a little bit towards the end of OTAs [offseason training activities]," he said. "Then I came out here and started off really well. I struggled a little bit towards the end of last week, but I think I had a good day today and showed that I made some plays."

Willis, who played with quarterback Drew Olson at UCLA, had nothing but positive comments for Olson, who is competing with fifth-round pick Troy Smith for the No. 3 role. "Drew has a great arm," Willis said. "He's a smart player. He knows what he needs to do and how to work. He's a worker and you can't say no to a guy who works."

Posted by Edward Lee at 1:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

Haloti Ngata is going to be a terror this year, but he's got to contain himself in training camp.

After bowling over left guard Jason Brown, Ngata accidentally rolled into Steve McNair and brought the starting quarterback to the ground. McNair wasn't hurt but you never want to see the starting quarterback on the ground or even touched by a 340-pound lineman.

Still, it's hard to deny the sheer athleticism of Ngata. How many defensive tackles are dropping back like middle linebackers these days? In a couple of team drills, Ngata has lined up as a defensive tackle and then stepped back like a linebacker. It's amazing to think there were some analysts criticizing the pick of Ngata on draft day 16 months ago.

GETTING HEALTHY: Although the team hasn't officially announced it, fullback Justin Green and offensive tackle Mike Kracalik have been activated off the physically-unable-to-perform list. Green (knee) and Kracalik (ankle) both participated in practice.

That means the only players still on the PUP list are: offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden (toe), inside linebacker Mike Smith (shoulder) and outside linebacker Dan Cody (knee).

Outside linebacker Antwan Barnes (ankle), who missed the scrimmage because of injury, also returned to practice. Defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (knee) did not participate in team drills.

NOT HAPPY: Coach Brian Billick voiced his displeasure over the offense having a subpar practice and failing to follow up a solid scrimmage.

Maybe as punishment, the Ravens practiced 18 minutes longer than what they were scheduled to practice. Next time, Billick should threaten to take away their PlayStations from the hotel.

HUSH: The Ravens closed their morning practice as they hosted some VIPs. There was a noticeable noise drop-off compared to a typical camp practice. It sounded eerily like a baseball game at Camden Yards.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 12:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

You can't put a lot into scrimmages, but the Ravens were effective against the Redskins. The Ravens held most of their defensive starters out of the 11-on-11 scrimmage, but that was to be expected. There is no use risking injury when you have the most starters returning on the league's No. 1 defense.

Both quarterbacks were solid, especially in the short passing game. The Ravens were balanced in distributing the ball to the top receivers, and Demetrius Williams might be the most improved of this group from a year ago. He is fast, but also has become more physical while running routes. Rookie offensive tackle Jared Gaither, out of Maryland, has been impressive and will be a force if he continues to improve.

There are some concerns. The Ravens need to find a fullback for short yardage situations and right offensive tackle Adam Terry spent a lot of time on the ground. Very seldom should offensive linemen leave their feet. Steve McNair's passes lacked zip when they were over 10 yards, and his arm looked tired at the end of the first week of training camp. Backup quarterback Kyle Boller performed well in the middle of the field offense, but struggled again inside the red zone.

But overall, nothing to panic about. The Ravens were efficient and business like, just like last year and during the first week of the 2007 training camp.

Posted by Mike Preston at 6:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

Saturday's two-hour showing between the Ravens and the Washington Redskins at M&T Bank wasn't merely a scrimmage. It was a test to see who the hard-core fans are.

The on-field temperature was 141 degrees. That's even warmer than Brian Billick's hot seat last season.

Still, a crowd of 25,322 turned out to watch Steve McNair throw three passes and most of the starting defense sit out the scrimmage. OK, maybe it didn't show who were the hard-core fans. But it certainly revealed the craziest. 

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 5:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Well, the first-team offensive and defensive units just completed their series of 11-on-11 drills. Here's what we know:

1. Redskins quarterback Mark Brunell is no match for the Ravens' defense, which was composed of many of the reserves. With starter Jason Campbell on the sidelines, the Redskins' offense could muster just two first downs, failed to convert one third down, and did not cross midfield in its 10 plays. Linebacker Edgar Jones registered a sack coming off the left edge.

2. Ravens wide receiver Demetrius Williams looks like he might blow up. He caught passes of 14, 18 and five yards and was targeted twice by quarterback Kyle Boller for potential touchdown passes.

3. Ravens running back Willis McGahee didn't set the world on fire. He rushed four times for nine yards, including a five-yard gain up the middle on first down from the Redskins' 15-yard line.

4. Ravens quarterback Steve McNair looked comfortable. He connected with tight end Todd Heap on a 12-yard seam pass down the middle on 3rd-and-6 and hit Williams for 14 yards on 2nd-and-8.

5. The Ravens lead, 3-0. Despite first-and-goal from the 4, the Ravens could not punch the ball into the end zone and kicker Matt Stover nailed a 22-yard field goal.

Posted by Edward Lee at 1:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

It's noon, and the Ravens and Redskins have taken the field. The entire Ravens team is out stretching, but less than half of the Redskins are enduring the blazing heat and humidity. There will be another blog entry this afternoon after the first-team offense and defense play their snaps, but here's a little something to whet your appetite.

Earlier this week, Sports Illustrated published a list of the "Top 10 Hitters in the NFL" on its Web site. At No. 10 was Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis. Here's what SI wrote about Lewis:

"Lewis is 32 and not as intimidating as he once was. But ballcarriers and blockers still keep an eye out for him at all times. He's relentless and drives opponents to the ground. Fellow Ravens linebacker Bart Scott deserves mention here, but Lewis gets the nod because of all the hard hits he's delivered in his career."

At No. 6 is former Ravens and current Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas. The top five (in descending order) include Colts safety Bob Sanders, Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman, Eagles safety Brian Dawkins, Cowboys safety Roy Williams and Redskins safety Sean Taylor.

Six of the top 10 hitters are safeties. Notice the trend?

Earlier this summer, SI ranked the NFL owners based on their business savvy, desire to win and decision-making skills. Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti was No. 13 with this description:

"Bisciotti, by all accounts, is rich, fun and wise. The one thing he's not is overly present, instead preferring to spend the bulk of his time in South Florida working on his perpetually killer tan. When Bisciotti is in the state where the Ravens play, it's often because he's attending Maryland hoops games, another one of his passions.

Things could be a lot worse in Baltimore: Bisciotti is a relatively big spender and a smart manager. The football operations department is in great hands, with Ozzie Newsome, one of the league's best general managers, firmly in charge. Bisciotti also seemed to have successfully re-energized coach Brian Billick before the '06 season, one possible reason the team went 13-3 (before losing in the playoffs to Indy)."

Bisciotti wasn't the top-ranking AFC North owner. That distinction went to the Rooney family, who own the Steelers and ranked No. 9.

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

After one week of training camp, it's hard to get a good read on running back Willis McGahee, so it will be interesting to watch him in the scrimmage against the Redskins. At times, you see the burst and acceleration, but he doesn't wow you. Then again, one of his strengths will be his versatility. He is a threat out of the backfield, and the Ravens have run more three receiver sets during this training camp than any of the previous ones.

It's also hard to evaluate him because he is going against the best defense in the NFL in practice. For years, we've seen the Ravens defense make a lot of good running backs look average. I can't imagine head coach Brian Billick playing McGahee long in the scrimmage, but at least we'll get a different perspective. McGahee, like some of the other young players on offense, certainly gives the offense more bite compared to past years.

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Three of the most prominent  members of the Ravens are former Miami Hurricanes, but Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Willis McGahee haven't razzed rookie linebacker Antwan Barnes about his former school.

Barnes played at Florida International University in Miami last season, when the team brawled with the Hurricanes. Barnes wasn't among the 31 players suspended for the incident, including 18 of his teammates.

Barnes, who  grew  up in  Miami  and played high school ball with and against many future  Hurricanes, said he went to work out with some of them during the offseason as he got ready for his pro workouts. Barnes was one of two fourth-round picks for the Ravens.

"Everything was cool with them,'' Barnes said today. "It was over.''

Aside from this year's rematch with Miami on Sept. 15, Barnes is looking forward to another game on FIU's schedule. FIU is scheduled to play Maryland the week before it plays Miami, and will get the Terrapins at home.

"We almost beat them last year,'' Barnes said of a 14-10 defeat to the Terps that ended with FIU being intercepted at the Maryland 3-yard line. "I think we have a good chance to get them at our place.''

As for the razzing from former Hurricanes now on the Ravens, it's just a matter of time. The rookie will have to perform for the veterans sometime next week. Barnes might want to learn the Miami fight song just in case.

Posted by Don Markus at 1:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

At 6 feet, 3 inches and 305 pounds, Ravens center Mike Flynn doesn’t strike you as a basketball player, but Flynn lettered in basketball at Cathedral High School in Springfield, Mass. Not surprisingly, he is a huge Boston Celtics fan and naturally had an opinion on the acquisition of former Minnesota Timberwolves All-Star forward Kevin Garnett earlier this week. There’s more in tomorrow’s paper.

Flynn said his confidence in Celtics general manager Danny Ainge was rock solid. "I had faith in Danny Ainge all along. I may have swore at the TV a few times during the draft, but he said, ‘It ain’t over yet.’ And he was right. It was not over yet."

Flynn is already predicting that the Celtics will advance to next season’s NBA Finals. "Obviously, with those three stars [in Garnett, forward Paul Pierce and guard Ray Allen], they have to avoid injuries because they probably don’t have the bench after trading away a lot of guys. So I think the key is to stay healthy, play good ball and maybe get a [No.] 1 or 2 seed and take it from there. Once they get to the playoffs, they have three of the top 20 guys in the league. So I think they’ll have a chance."

Flynn said he is still scouring the Internet to buy season tickets. "I tried to get a half-season, but they sold out, and I was just bummed. Even if I buy a full package, I can’t get up there until at least January. But we’ll see. They still have some season tickets left, and I’m going to look into it."

Posted by Edward Lee at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The first big scare of training camp occurred when tight end Todd Heap was pushed to the ground and was slow to get up. You could hear the crowd let out a collective, "Oh no."

Heap initially favored his right ankle but he quickly walked it off. Still, the Ravens got him to the sideline quickly to check it out. Heap soon returned to the field, and everyone got to breathe normally again.

SCRIMMAGE TIME: The Ravens will have their scrimmage against the Washington Redskins tomorrow at noon at M&T Bank Stadium. If you're upset that all the regular-season tickets sold out so quickly, here's your chance to get to watch the Ravens on their home turf without having to call Stub Hub. Plenty of tickets are available, and it's general admission.

It's unknown how long the starters will play. Coach Brian Billick said the heat could cut down on how long the scrimmage goes.

INJURY REPORT: Don't expect guard Ben Grubbs (knee), nose tackle Kelly Gregg (bruise) and linebacker Antwan Barnes (ankle) to play in the scrimmage. Billick essentially ruled out all of them.

OFFICIAL TIME: A crew of NFL officials were on the field for today's practice, letting players know if there were penalties that occurred. You know it's just training camp because Billick was shaking hands with the officials instead of cussing them out.

Billick said he didn't think there were any special rules of emphasis this year. "It's pretty straight-forward," Billick said.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 10:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

1. I've often referred to head coach Brian Billick's training camps as Camp Cream Puff, and that's not just because the Ravens need more two-a-days or longer practices. It also refers to developing a work ethic and a nasty attitude going into the regular season.

For the first time in several years, I'm seeing an offense developing a nasty streak. The offensive players have often complained about being the forgotten stepchild on this team, but that may change. Ravens linebacker Jarret Johnson and tight end Marcus Freeman got into a fight today during the goal-line segment of practice, and of course the defensive players were the first ones to run in. Billick blew his whistle several times, but he seemed content to let the fight go on and let the players settle it.

In previous fights, the offensive players would quietly go back to the huddle and get abused by the defense for the remainder of practice. It never failed and set the tone for the entire season. It's been frustrating to watch year after year after year.

But today, the offense scored on its next three plays after the scuffle, including touchdown catches by Derrick Mason and Demetrius Williams. Finally the offense has drawn a line in the sand, and they have some young players who refuse to be intimidated.

That's a major part of football: to either intimidate or be intimidated, especially in goal line situations. Goal line play is extremely personal and it's nothing more than attitude. It's your biggest and baddest against the other team's biggest and baddest.

And for the first time in recent years, the Ravens offensive players didn't flinch. If it were me, I would have ordered the offense to run three straight running plays after the fight to get everybody jacked up, but that's too old school these days.

Anyway, it was nice to see a fight. It was nice to see some attitude from the offensive players. It's hot, humid and everybody gets tired. You fight through training camp just like you fight through the season. I've seen young guys like Williams, rookie offensive tackles Jared Gaither and Marshal Yanda and guard Jason Brown getting in the faces of veteran players. Even receivers like Devard Darling aren't taking any mess from the defensive players.

It's good to see. It's a good sign. Finally.

2. Defensive coordinator Rex Ryan is known for being creative, but today he outdid himself. Ryan was playing pass defense as the middle linebacker in practice. He was backpedaling and going side to side. It's unknown if he'll be a part of a regular package.

3. On the fourth day of training camp, quarterback Steve McNair had his worst practice, and we'll leave it at that. End of conversation.

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
        

It's tough enough to get noticed at an NFL training camp when you're a free agent playing a position of need. When you're a tight end on a team loaded at that position, it's close to impossible to get the coaches to take a long look.

Such is the plight for Kendrick Ballantyne, a 6-4, 243-pound rookie who finished his career at Northeastern after playing his first two years at Maine. Ballantyne is trying to make the Ravens with a pretty good idea that he's not going to knock third-string tight end Quinn Sypniewski out of the mix.

Ballantyne has gotten some reps the past couple of practices at McDaniel College because Sypniewski has been sidelined with a stomach flu. The  leading receiver among tight ends in 1-AA last season, Ballantyne should see some action in Saturday's scrimmage against the Washington Redskins at M&T Bank Stadium.

"On draft day I got a call, and they asked if I wanted to be a Raven, it was a good fit for me,'' said Ballantyne, who turned down similar training camp invitations from a number of teams, including the New England Patriots.

The most difficult part of the adjustment for Ballantyne is, as expected, the speed of the players, even those going at half-speed during the early part of camp, as well as the strength of the opposition.

"I'm just trying to get used to the blocking stuff more than the passing stuff,'' said Ballantyne, who is built more along the lines of backup Daniel Wilcox (6-1, 245) than starter Todd Heap (6-5, 252) or Sypniewski (6-6, 270). "I'm still just trying to get my steps down and my technique down.''

With 4.7 speed in the 40, Ballantyne appears to be a pretty decent athlete and nearly made a difficult catch on a throw from former Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith during Wednesday's morning practice.

"If he had dived and made the catch, he might helped his chances,'' one fan said as the ball bounced away.

Ballantyne is a former high school basketball player who played both against former Maryland standout Nik Caner-Medley at a rival high school near Portland, Me. as well as with Caner-Medley on a local AAU team.

"I was good friends with him, we graduated the same year,,'' Ballantyne said.

He hopes to have a little more luck in making the NFL than Caner-Medley had in making the NBA.

Given the number of spots locked up, Ballantyne's only chance will likely come if he turns into a monster on special teams.

What's the most interesting thing that has happened to him since he came to camp?

"Just meeting all the guys, learning what the NFL is all about,'' Ballantyne said. "Just getting an inside look at what it takes to make a team.''

If Ballantyne doesn't make it, he should be in pretty good shape. He graduated with a double major in finance and management. Maybe he should find out if any of his training camp teammates needs a financial advisor.

Posted by Don Markus at 2:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Tight end Marcus Freeman is a rookie free agent from Notre Dame trying to make a good impression on the Ravens coaching staff. He took center stage when he tangled with linebacker Jarret Johnson during an 11-on-11, goal-line drill that ignited the first fight of training camp.

On how the fisticuffs began: "I was scruffing with No. 95 [Johnson], and I felt a bunch of people jump on my back," Freeman said. "I got up and I saw all these purple shirts [the defense wore purple, while the offense wore white]. I was like, ‘Where are all my teammates at?’ But it was all in fun. Nothing serious."

Was the fight related to the hot, humid conditions that seemed to envelop McDaniel College in Westminster? "Probably a lot," Freeman said. "Everybody gets a little ornery and tired. There’s a lot of testosterone around here, so people just get to flailing and things happen."

Finally, I asked him to describe his development thus far in camp. "I have a long way to go, but I think I’m improving every day," Freeman said. "It’s going well, I believe. But you definitely want to make some plays on the field and be recognized for that."

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The surprise of training camp so far has been Jared Gaither. A fifth-round supplemental pick out of the University of Maryland, Gaither has already supplanted Marshal Yanda as the starting left tackle.

Of course, Jonathan Ogden will be the starter for the season opener. But it's impressive that Gaither is running with the first team by his fourth day in a Ravens uniform. Remember he didn't have any minicamps because he wasn't drafted until July.

What stands out about Gaither is that he's big. Real big. He's listed at 6 feet 9, 350 pounds. I know Steve McNair will be happy knowing Gaither is protecting his blind side. I know I just feel safer knowing that he's at the team hotel.

TURNING UP THE HEAT: The Ravens had their hottest day of camp, and not surprisingly, they had their first heat-related incident. Near the end of practice, rookie fullback Le'Ron McClain went down with a cramp. He was carted off the field with ice on his stomach.

ONE-MAN GANG: The Ravens had their first fight in camp, although it didn't last long. During one of the team drills, undrafted rookie tight end Marcus Freeman got locked up with linebacker Jarret Johnson. As the scuffle escalated, Freeman noticed it was him against the entire defense. So it didn't end well for Freeman.

IN A ZONE: After it looked like the first-team defense had the starting offense's number, McNair and gang finished strong in goal-line drills. With the ball at the 1-yard line, running back Willis McGahee ran in standing up and then McNair hit Todd Heap in the back of the end zone after a play-action fake.

INJURY WATCH: Nose tackle Kelly Gregg (thigh bruise), guard Ben Grubbs (knee), linebacker Antwan Barnes (ankle) and tight end Quinn Sypniewski (stomach flu) did not practice. Offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden (toe) remains on the physically-unable-to-perform list.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 11:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

1. Derrick Mason will tell you that he can use any area of the field, but he seemed to excel in the slot today. During the morning session, the wide receiver capped a successful two-minute drill with a 25-yard touchdown reception down the middle of the field. And Mason caught another long pass down the seam during an 11-on-11 drill.

2. Where is Rhys Lloyd? Lloyd, who finished a season in NFL Europa, was billed to have a shot at becoming the team’s kickoff specialist, but the 5-foot-11, 231-pound Minnesota product has been a no-show. Coach Brian Billick finally solved the mystery, revealing that Lloyd was dealing with visa issues and would be at camp as soon as possible.

3. I know it’s early, but quarterback Steve McNair might be in for a long season if the running backs struggle picking up the linebacker blitz as they did during this morning’s drill. During one sequence, four linebackers reached the quarterback dummy in five attempts. Rookie fullback Le’Ron McClain enjoyed the most success, registering three successful stops.

4. Kicker Matt Stover would probably make a good poker player. He successfully converted four field goal attempts while ignoring chants from teammates like linebackers Terrell Suggs and Bart Scott and defensive end Trevor Pryce.

5. The players aren’t the only ones staying in shape out there. Led by wide receivers coach Mike Johnson, a group of coaches wrapped up the morning session with sprints around the field. Then again, special teams coach Frank Gansz Jr. and special teams assistant John Fassel have been doing that since last year.

6. The afternoon session was hot. For the first time during this camp, the team broke out fans that spray water for the players, and at one point, the entire defense was walking through its sets without wearing its helmets. But rookie quarterback Troy Smith wore a long-sleeve T-shirt underneath his jersey. "That’s the way it’s got to be," he said with a smile.

7. Dropped passes were the running theme of the afternoon session. Wide receivers Romby Bryant and Yamon Figurs and tight end Daniel Wilcox all dropped potential catches. Wilcox compounded his mistake by kicking the football back toward the pocket, where the ball narrowly missed coach Brian Billick and hit Johnson in the head.

8. Note to fans: learn the players’ names and numbers. One fan sought to get Wilcox’s autograph by calling him "Anthony." Wilcox, rightfully so, walked right on by.

Posted by Edward Lee at 5:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The Ravens finally get a night off tonight from their training camp regimen.

So what do seven-figure millionaire athletes and coaches, and those aspiring for all those zeroes on their paychecks, do in their sudden free time?

Any big plans back at their homes in Owings Mills and the surrounding suburbs?

Anyone going to see "Oliver" at the McDaniel College Playhouse across from the practice fields?

"The Simpsons Movie" anyone?

"Nothing crazy,'' fourth-year offensive guard Brian Rimpf said as he walked off the field after afternoon practice. "Go home, I have the family with me, get a little extra dinner. I don't like going out to a movie or anything because it's a short turnaround to the next morning.''

That was the typical response.

It's different for the veterans, who are now allowed to go home and sleep in their own beds, than it is for the rookies.

Yamon Figurs, the rookie wideout and return specialist who was the team's third-round pick, had some rookie obligations to fulfill.

"I got to go buy some I-phones for the wide receivers because I'm the new guy,''  Figurs said.

And that's it?

"Then I'm going to the movies and see if I can catch a movie, 'Who's Your Daddy?'...no 'Who's Your Caddie?'' Figurs said.

Another rookie, linebacker Joe Martin out of San Diego State, isn't going far.

"To be honest, I'm probably going to sleep,'' Martin said. "I'm going to get  into my playbook for  awhile and go to bed.  Early mornings, late nights, trying to catch up on some of my rests.''

Said veteran Mike Anderson, "You rest. You take full advantage of it.  Just lay low.''

And what does the head coach do on his first night off?

"Go home and spend some real time with his family,'' Brian Billick said. "Make a bee line for it. Get a home-cooked meal. My daughter is going off to school and I get to spend a little time with her before she goes off to college.''

Practice resumes at 9:30 a.m. Thursday.

Posted by Don Markus at 5:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Last season, all eyes were on Haloti Ngata, the rookie defensive tackle whom the Ravens selected in the first round. A 60-yard interception return against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the season opener led to a rookie campaign in which Ngata compiled 51 tackles, three deflected passes and a sack.  

Ngata said one of the biggest differences between this year's training camp and last year's is the experience he has accumulated. "This year, it feels more relaxing, just knowing the plays," he said. "[Strong safety] Dawan Landry and I were talking about how happy we are with knowing the plays and knowing what to do and knowing the guys around us. It's not easier, but it's more easy for us to do the things we want to do. We can focus more on our technique instead of worrying about the plays."

Ngata was then asked what advice he would give guard Ben Grubbs, who was the team's first-round pick in April's draft. "He shouldn't have a social life," Ngata said, drawing laughs from a crowd of reporters. "He has to be in his playbook the same way that I was. i think that's what helped me get on the field pretty fast. I was in my playbook every day, in between meetings and nap times. I think he's a great player. He's real strong with his arms and quick hands. I think he can be a great player for us."

As noted by my colleague Mike Preston, Ngata played middle linebacker during one play yesterday morning and was sent on a blitz. Ngata said that's part of the thrill of playing in defensive coordinator Rex Ryan's unpredictable schemes. "It's a lot of fun," Ngata said. "It's Rex playing around with us. I don't think we're ever going to use it, but we're just having fun in training camp, and he's letting us pretty much do whatever we want. And he knows that I like to play around a lot."

Posted by Edward Lee at 11:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The injuries are starting to mount, but the Ravens would be pleased if they continue to be relatively minor.

The one concern is guard Ben Grubbs, the team's first-round pick. He sprained his knee during special teams drills Tuesday and did not practice today. He's considered day-to-day and might not play in the scrimmage against the Washington Redskins.

Any time lost is not good for Grubbs. There is a big learning curve for him because he's switching sides by playing right guard and he's adjusting to the physical play at this level. If he is sidelined for an extended period, it could hurt his chances of starting right away.

INJURY STATUS: Nose tackle Kelly Gregg didn't practice because of a thigh bruise. It's not considered serious.

Offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden remains on the physically-unable-to-perform list but he was more active today. He did some fast walking across the field, but it still seemed like the toe was affecting his movement.

IT'S GOING AROUND: Backup tight end Quinn Sypniewski missed today's practice because he got the same stomach flu as rookie linebacker Prescott Burgess. I guess that's a sign of a close team.

TALES OF TWO MINUTES: In the first two-minute drill of training camp, quarterback Steve McNair showed solid recovery skills. A few plays after fumbling a shotgun snap, McNair threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Derrick Mason.

TIME TO TALK: Coach Brian Billick likes to talk, but he's been working overtime during training camp. In each of the first three morning practices, Billick has stopped practice, called his players into a circle and spoke about the tempo.

NO TIME TO DANCE: While signing autographs, a fan asked linebacker Ray Lewis to do his signature pre-game dance. Lewis smiled and just signed the fan's football instead.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 11:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)