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.