If I had to guess, I would say that coach John Harbaugh knew he was going to be peppered with questions about his decision not to challenge the officials’ ruling that wide receiver Derrick Mason was either A) out of bounds or B) did not have possession in the end zone near the end of the first quarter of the Ravens’ 23-20 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers last night.

That’s why he hardly seemed surprised that the first seven questions of his weekly conference revolved around that decision. The most significant reason? There was no indication from either the coaches on the turf at Heinz Field, the staff in the box overlooking the field or Mason himself that the red flag should have been thrown.

"If we would’ve had any kind of picture that we thought was close, we would’ve challenged it for sure," Harbaugh said. "But we didn’t have any indication, and me looking at it from across the field and [his assistants] from up top, it looked to the naked eye like he was out. That’s what I thought. But as soon as we saw the thing this morning off the TV copy and when our guys saw it later, they thought he was in. It was too late."

Harbaugh said another factor was a 40-second play clock that was running down to zero and might have turned a Matt Stover 33-yard field-goal attempt into a 38-yarder into a brisk wind at Heinz Field.

"It was 'bang-bang,' and we didn’t get it and we just felt like we had to go play," Harbaugh said. "The 40-second clock was running. We call a play and we go."

Harbaugh also said that Mason didn’t lobby the coach to issue a challenge. Then again, Harbaugh said listening to a player has its limitations.

"Generally speaking, I would say no, you don’t really rely on a player because players for the most part feel like they make most every play," he said. "But I guess it depends on the player."

Other notes:

• While Harbaugh called the holding penalty assessed to linebacker Antwan Barnes on the kickoff return to start the overtime period “avoidable,” Harbaugh seemed to defend the unnecessary call on linebacker Jarret Johnson, who was spotted shoving Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward at the conclusion of a play.

"There are foolish penalties and there are penalties that are just gray-area penalties that go with the game," Harbaugh said. "The holding penalty on the kickoff return was, we think, avoidable. The personal foul out of bounds, that’s gray in my mind. That’s a guy playing hard and you like to see a better decision made, but that’s a heat-of-battle penalty. So those things, you’re in the heat of battle, you compete, and you try to learn from them."

• Harbaugh said the objective now is to put the loss to the Steelers in the past and begin preparing for the undefeated Tennessee Titans (4-0).

"The big picture is we’ve got a game next week against Tennessee. I think that’s our big picture," he said. "All of the other big-picture stuff, that’s kind of for fans and media to look at and figure all that out. But until you start winning a whole lot of games, it’s really pointless to look at the big picture. The big picture is Tennessee six days from now, and that’s a really good football team coming in here. We’ve got our hands full, but we’re looking forward to it."

Posted by Edward Lee at 5:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)
        

The Ravens presented the Pittsburgh Steelers with a gift last night, but I don't see Pittsburgh holding up for the rest of the season.

They have a brutal schedule and lost two more key players last night with injuries against the Ravens. I have a hard time seeing Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger playing the rest of the season without an injury.

I can't see the Cincinnati Bengals challenging for the AFC North title, so that leaves only the Ravens and the Cleveland Browns.

It should be interesting.

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (26)
        

When the Ravens resume practice this week, the first thing they should do is grab all the defensive backs and some tackling dummies, and teach these players how to tackle. It's one of the most basic things in the game, yet the Ravens missed a lot of tackles in Monday night's loss to the Steelers. I know the Ravens are banged up in the secondary, but if players can't make tackles, they shouldn't be on the field.

We can all debate play-calling and other forms of strategy, but there is no excuse for missed tackles. Absolutely none.

Posted by Mike Preston at 10:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)
        

Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco got welcomed to the NFL last night. No, these weren't the Bengals or the Browns, but a team built like the Ravens with a defense just as good. Flacco got bounced around in the third period against the Steelers, and for the first time this season, you could see him lose his composure.

He started short-arming passes and throwing too quickly because he didn't want to get hit. He forgot to secure the ball. Flacco has played so well at times that we often forget he is a rookie. But last night, he got rattled even though he regained his composure in the fourth period.

And he missed connecting on two touchdown passes during the game, which shows he still needs to improve his accuracy. This will be a season of growing pains for Flacco, and he went through some Monday night.

Posted by Mike Preston at 7:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (25)
        

The ESPN Monday Night Countdown crew was split 4-4 on who would win between the Ravens and Steelers. Picking the Steelers: Cris Carter, Tom Jackson, Chris Berman and Steve Young. For the Ravens: Mike Ditka, Keyshawn Johnson, Emmitt Smith and Stuart Scott.

Posted by Ron Fritz at 8:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

We might see how much of a hold new coach John Harbaugh actually has on the Ravens tonight. In the recent past, the Ravens have embarrassed themselves in nationally televised games. But I'm not just talking about their play. I'm talking about their behavior -- the taunting, ref baiting, dancing -- all the things that contribute to a bad image. When Harbaugh became the head coach, he talked about changing that type of behavior. Well, we'll find out in a couple of hours, on national TV in a game against a heated rival. It will be interesting to see if the Ravens can control themselves.

Posted by Mike Preston at 4:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)
        

Two rookies will play major parts in tonight's game between the Ravens and Steelers, and it couldn't have worked out worse. If you're the Ravens, the worst place to start rookie quarterback Joe Flacco on the road is in Pittsburgh. The Steelers have won six of the past seven games against the Ravens at Heinz Field, and the Steelers have won 13 consecutive home games on Monday night.

The Steelers will start rookie running back Rashard Mendenhall in place of Willie Parker. Parker has been a non-factor against the Ravens, having rushed for 215 yards on 78 carries in five previous games between the two teams. Mendenhall had a fumbling problem in the preseason and now will have to take on the Ravens, who have the No. 1 defense in the league. The Ravens will do a lot of ball hawking tonight.

Posted by Mike Preston at 1:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

I just got on the elevator with running back Willis McGahee at the team hotel this morning. The swelling in his eye looks like it is completely gone, but it's still dark red. McGahee seemed to be in great spirits, and I assume he will try to play. At least he didn't have on sunglasses like last week when the eye was swollen and nearly shut. On the 17 floors up, McGahee was laughing and joking around with teammates.

Posted by Mike Preston at 11:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

In addition to defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (left knee) and strong safety Dawan Landry (spinal cord concussion), the Ravens ruled out cornerback Samari Rolle (right shoulder) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection).

Rolle confirmed to The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston yesterday that he might not play against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday night. Rolle did not practice today. The prognosis on cornerback Fabian Washington (bulging disc in neck) seems better as he practiced fully for the third consecutive day and is listed as probable.

Despite sounding non-committal about his availability for Monday's contest, running back Willis McGahee (lacerated right eyelid) practiced fully today and is probable. Fullback Le'Ron McClain, who sat out yesterday's practice with a migraine, also practiced and is probable.

Right offensive tackle Adam Terry made a sudden appearance on the team’s injury report, as an ankle injury limited him in practice. Terry, wide receiver/return specialist Yamon Figurs (hamstring) and linebacker Nick Greisen (quad) are listed as questionable.

Linebacker Ray Lewis (foot), tight end Daniel Wilcox (shoulder) and rookie linebacker Tavares Gooden (hip) are probable.

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)
        

I understand fans being excited about the Ravens and they have played well considering the circumstances.

But I hope people don't get caught up in all this premature playoff talk. No one expected the Ravens to do well this season, so it's just fun sitting back and watching this team play.

They play smash-mouth football, great defense and are well coached. They aren't doing a lot of trash talking in the locker room and they are buying into the team concept.

I say sit back, watch the games, have some fun and see where this all goes.

Posted by Mike Preston at 4:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (22)
        

Doesn't Lorenzo Neal remind you of the Juggernaut character in the X-Men?

Apparently, when he runs on the field with that semi-flexed look, it's a signal for the Ravens' "jumbo package." Kinda cool.

"I can't tell you what the formation is called, but I do give them the Conan look," said Neal, laughing.

The Ravens have been impressed with Neal's work ethic and his power to simply run through or over people.

"I came in here Monday after the game, and he was in the weight room doing rows with 100 pound dumb bells," said Ravens outside linebacker Terrell Suggs. "I said, 'Man, what are you doing? We just had a game yesterday.'"

"I didn't get a chance to play against Sam Gash, but I heard he was a beast," Suggs added. "I've only been hit by two real, legitimate fullbacks. One was Mack Strong, out of Seattle. The other was Zo [Lorenzo]. He hit me so hard one time he knocked my helmet off. We talk about that all the time. I don't know how this guy lasted on the free-agent market."

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

Cornerback Samari Rolle was absent from today’s portion of practice open to the media. Rolle, who confirmed to The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston that he may not play Monday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers, is dealing with a sore right shoulder that he injured in Sunday’s 28-10 win against the Cleveland Browns.

Cornerback Fabian Washington took part in practice, but assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Rex Ryan did not sound optimistic that Washington could make his first appearance of the season. "That would be a bonus," Ryan said before practice.

If Rolle and Washington cannot play, Frank Walker and Corey Ivy would likely rotate in at cornerback opposite starter Chris McAlister.

Like Rolle, linebacker Nick Greisen (quad) was not present during practice.

After sitting out practice on Thursday, fullback Le’Ron McClain (migraine) and tight end Daniel Wilcox (shoulder) took part in practice today. Running back Willis McGahee (lacerated right eyelid), wide receiver/return specialist Yamon Figurs (hamstring), quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) and rookie linebacker Tavares Gooden (hip) also practiced.

Other notes:

* Orioles pitcher Lance Cormier attended practice as a guest of linebacker Jarret Johnson’s. Johnson and Cormier both attended the University of Alabama.

* Center Chris Chester was wearing a No. 48 jersey instead of his usual No. 65. But Chester did not work out with the tight ends, staying with the other offensive linemen.

* Hanging in defensive tackle Dwan Edwards’ locker was an Oregon State t-shirt. My guess is that Edwards, a former Beaver, was celebrating Oregon State’s 27-21 upset of No. 1 USC last night.

Posted by Edward Lee at 2:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

If, as expected, cornerback Samari Rolle does not play Monday against the Steelers, Fabian Washington will replace him. According to defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, Washington has had a good week of practice despite some nagging injuries. Rolle is having a good season, and has performed well in man-to-man coverage. Washington isn't as good in press coverage, but he is better in run support. Washington comes up and tackles well, and that will be helpful against a team like Pittsburgh because the Steelers like to run the ball.

Posted by Mike Preston at 9:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
        

Linebacker Bart Scott knew what was coming before the question was even asked: was he looking forward to renewing his rivalry with Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward on Monday night?

"What are you talking about?" Scott asked rhetorically. "I don’t have a rivalry with anybody. Just trying to get a football game and get a dub [win]. Need a dub."

In the Ravens' last visit to Heinz Field, Ward decked free safety Ed Reed and Scott with crushing blocks. Scott admitted to threatening to "kill" Ward during the game and pledged to even the score. But Ward did not play in the season finale at M&T Bank Stadium.

Asked if he would seek out Ward and exchange pleasantries before the game, Scott said. "Why would I tell you something like that? You just had to ask the question, huh? No, I’m going out there to try and win a football game. All of that other stuff is whatever."

A reporter then told Scott that Ward said he likes the Ravens linebacker. Scott returned the favor, saying, "I think he did some tremendous things. I was really impressed with what he did with bringing those kids over from Asia. I watched the special. I think that was heartfelt. Football is a totally different thing. Like I said, I don’t care if my mother was out there. I’d smack her around, too. That’s just football. It doesn’t matter. If she’s got a different jersey on, she’s got to get dealt with."

Posted by Edward Lee at 3:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
        

The Ravens could have as many as three defensive starters out Monday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Safety Dawan Landry and Kelly Gregg have already been ruled out, and there is a good chance cornerback Samari Rolle will miss the game because of neck and shoulder problems.

When asked in the locker room if he was out for the game, Rolle said he had not been declared out yet. He asked me what I had heard, and I said, "a source says you are out."

Rolle replied: "I would say your source is pretty good."

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

Several starters -- cornerback Chris McAlister (right knee), fullback Le'Ron McClain (back/ankle) and defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (left knee) -- were not present during the portion of today's practice open to the media.

Tight end Daniel Wilcox (reason undisclosed) and linebacker Nick Greisen (quad) were also absent.

Dressed in a purple sweatshirt, cornerback Samari Rolle (right shoulder) took part in a few individual drills on an adjacent field.

Running back Willis McGahee (lacerated eyelid), cornerback Fabian Washington (bulging disc in neck), wide receiver/return specialist Yamon Figurs (hamstring), quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) and rookie linebacker Tavares Gooden (hip) were present and active.

Other notes:

* To simulate the field conditions at Heinz Field, the Ravens practiced on a far field composed of Kentucky bluegrass.

* Rookie safety Haruki Nakamura wore a black wig under his helmet. The resemblance to Steelers Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu, who also wears No. 43, was uncanny.

Posted by Edward Lee at 2:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
        

One of the key reasons for the Ravens' early season offensive success is the hard hitting the team went through in training camp. Despite criticism, coach John Harbaugh had to get his young guys ready on offense, and what better way than to learn against the Ravens' defense. It seems to have paid off.

Some skeptics will say that the Ravens will wear down in November and December. Maybe, but it won't be because of training camp. Older guys like Chris McAlister, Samari Rolle and Ed Reed missed most of training camp with injuries. Most of the guys on offense are too young to wear down at this point in their careers.

Posted by Mike Preston at 9:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)
        

The Bart Scott vs. Hines Ward saga got off to another rousing start today when Ward was questioned by Baltimore reporters on a conference call.

On if he remembers the threat he received from Scott last season, Ward said: "Yeah, he threatened to kill me after the game. I got a big laugh out of it."

On if he's excited to see Scott in Monday's game: "Yeah, I'm looking forward to it. He's a great ballplayer, and any time you get competitive, it's always great to go out there and compete. I'll go out there and smile at him a couple of times on the field."

On if it's hard to not take what Scott says personally: "No, not really. I mean, out on the field you're going to have a war of words. Guys are going to talk about your mother, talk about anything to try to get up under your skin. We played with one of the best of them in the league -- Joey Porter. It's just words. Words don't hurt me, or whatever. I'm pretty sure if I see Bart out in the street, outside of football, I'm pretty sure he's not going to kill me."

Nah, but he would punch you in the face.

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (38)
        

There was concern that second-year quarterback Troy Smith would be unhappy backing up rookie Joe Flacco and might undermine him because Smith was a favorite of the players.

If that's happening, I didn't see it today. Smith seemed comfortable with his role and was very supportive of Flacco.

In fact, Smith said he was pulling for Flacco because he was the starter. Smith seemed very honest and genuine in his statements.

Posted by Mike Preston at 1:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (23)
        

Due to the abbreviated nature of today's practice, the media viewing session was short.

Of what we could see, cornerback Samari Rolle and linebacker Nick Greisen were not dressed in their jerseys, wearing long-sleeve black T-shirts. Rolle is dealing with an injured right shoulder suffered in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 28-10 win against the Cleveland Browns. Greisen sat out Sunday's game due to an injured quad. Both players have said that they intend to play on Monday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (left knee), strong safety Dawan Landry (spinal cord concussion) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) were not present.

Posted by Edward Lee at 11:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Coach John Harbaugh and Samari Rolle both agreed that the cornerback could be available for Monday night's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers despite injuring his right shoulder.

"Samari’s fairly sore," Harbaugh said during his weekly conference today. "He’s got the shoulder right now, but he should be fine."

Rolle admitted that the shoulder hurts, but said he plans to practice on Wednesday. "If they let me," Rolle said. "As long as they let me, yeah, I plan to be there."

Wide receiver/return specialist Yamon Figurs (hamstring) and linebacker Nick Greisen (quad) both were deactivated for yesterday's 28-10 win against the Cleveland Browns and acknowledged that they couldn't have played. But they said they expected to play against the Steelers.

Other notes from Harbaugh's conference:

• Harbaugh said he is more than comfortable with employing a rotation of tailbacks in Willis McGahee, rookie Ray Rice and fullback Le'Ron McClain. "I don’t know if you can have too many good players, and that goes for any position," Harbaugh said. "... If you have three running backs that you’re comfortable with, that helps you. ... We don’t necessarily subscribe to the fact that one guy’s got to carry it 35 or 40 times. If that was what you had and that was your strength, that’s what you’d go with, but we feel fortunate to have three guys that can do it, and we’re going to use all three guys."

• Harbaugh said he was impressed by the solidarity among both Ravens and Browns players as medical personnel worked on strong safety Dawan Landry's spinal cord concussion. "There’s a strong bond down there," Harbaugh said. "I guess I was impressed with the Browns, too. Their attitude and the respect they had for him as a player and for the Ravens as a team was pretty obvious. These guys care about each other in this league, and you could see that. Guys were kneeling and praying, and that was a strong statement."

• Harbaugh said there was no need to remind the players of the challenge ahead in the reigning AFC North division champion Steelers (2-1). "I don’t think we have to bring our guys back down to earth," he said. "Our guys are grounded. They’re going to work on the next football game. They’ve already started. That’s their focus."

• Harbaugh said there was little distinction between playing on Sunday and Monday night. "Just like we’ve approached it as an assistant, and these guys have all played Monday night before," he said. "It’s going to be Monday night at 8:30, and we’ll be there. We’ll be on time."

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)
        

Ravens linebacker Bart Scott said one of the reasons he nailed Cleveland running back Jamal Lewis so hard on a swing pass late in the third quarter was because he owed Lewis one.

According to Scott, Lewis dissed on him when Scott was in his second year with the Ravens. Scott said it occurred on a running play in practice, when he came up to make a tackle on Lewis. He stopped, but Lewis looked at him like "he would have run over me in a real game. I never forgot that."

"I owed him that one," said Scott after the game Sunday.

It was a nice hit, and both players went down and bounced up easily. Scott has played well in the first two games.

Lewis ran extremely hard Sunday. He was one of the few Browns skilled players that actually played hard for the entire game.

***

Ravens rookie quarterback Joe Flacco has good pocket presence. He moves well, and has that ability to evade tackles by stepping up, or stepping aside in the pocket.

***

Ravens outside linebacker Jarret Johnson is developing into a pretty good pass rusher. He made Cleveland quarterback Derek Anderson move a couple of times Sunday. He is underrated because he plays with several Pro Bowlers, but Johnson earns his money.

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Apparently, the Browns didn't study the film of the Ravens' win against the Bengals. The Ravens used a similar plan to shut down the Bengals' passing attack. Instead of having an outside linebacker like a Bart Scott or Terrell Suggs walk out to jam a receiver at the line of scrimmage, the Ravens used them to pound on tight end Kellen Winslow on the snap. With Winslow slowed, the Ravens rolled their coverage toward receiver Braylon Edwards, who had shorter arms than T-Rex yesterday when it came to catching the ball.

Posted by Mike Preston at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

In perhaps the biggest surprise of the day, the Ravens have deactivated wide receiver/return specialist Yamon Figurs. Figurs had been limited all week due to what he called a tweaked hamstring, but he won't be playing today.

Safety Jim Leonhard is listed as the primary backup on kick and punt returns, but don't be surprised if guys like wide receiver Mark Clayton, rookie running back Ray Rice or rookie safety Tom Zbikowski get a shot on returns.

Linebacker Nick Greisen and cornerback Fabian Washington are also inactive. Greisen, who had been listed as questionable, did not practice on Friday after being limited on Thursday with a leg injury. Washington wasn't expected to play as he was listed as doubtful with a bulging disc in his neck that limited in last week.

The Ravens also deactivated defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (bone damage in left knee), cornerback Evan Oglesby and rookie offensive tackles David Hale and Oniel Cousins. Troy Smith (tonsil infection) is listed as the team's third (emergency) quarterback.

The Browns will play without four starters in linebacker Willie McGinest (hamstring), left guard Eric Steinbach (shoulder), wide receiver Donte Stallworth (pulled quadriceps) and strong safety Sean Jones (knee).

Linebacker Kris Griffin (calf) and tight end Martin Rucker (knee) are also inactive. Ken Dorsey is the third (emergency) quarterback.

Posted by Edward Lee at 3:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Ravens' special teams have been practicing a lot of directional kicking in preparation for Browns return specialist Joshua Cribbs. Cribbs had a career-high 245 yards on seven kickoff returns in Cleveland's 33-30 overtime win against the Ravens Nov. 18.

And remember how the Ravens just kept kicking him the ball?

***

Reserve defensive tackle Justin Bannan will replace Kelly Gregg for the next two games as Gregg continues to struggle with knee problems. Bannan is just as strong as Gregg, but doesn't have his motor. Bannan, though, is a tough guy and fits in with the Ravens. I thought he played extremely well in the opener against the Bengals.

***

Someone recently asked me if the discipline problems the Ravens have on defense have hurt defensive coordinator Rex Ryan in becoming a head coach.

Absolutely, and current Ravens head coach John Harbaugh has discussed the issue with a player or two. He is attempting to nip that kind of stuff.

***

After turning in an ugly performance in the opener against the Bengals, I bet you tight end Todd Heap redeems himself Sunday against the Browns. It won't happen twice.

***

I like listening to Ray Lewis talk about competing against Jamal Lewis. He gets all pumped up, and its as if he can't wait until Sunday just so they can bump heads. He used to be like that when he was playing the Titans and Eddie George.

***

For all you folks trying to find out if I'm having problems with Harbaugh, forget about it. We're just having some fun, folks.

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)
        

The second injury report of the week has been distributed, and linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo (right ankle) and cornerback Corey Ivy (sprained right ankle) joined defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic left knee surgery) as players who did not practice today.

Cornerbacks Fabian Washington (bulging disc in neck) and Derrick Martin (right shoulder) and wide receiver Yamon Figurs (hamstring) were limited for the second consecutive day. Linebacker Nick Greisen (thigh) was also limited.

Wide receiver Demetrius Williams (hamstring) was upgraded to full participation. He joined tight end Todd Heap (wrist) and right guard Marshal Yanda (knee).

For the Browns, return specialist Joshua Cribbs (shoulder) practiced after sitting out yesterday although he was limited. Three starters -- linebacker Willie McGinest (hamstring), wide receiver Donte Stallworth (strained quad) and left guard Eric Steinbach (shoulder) -- did not practice.

Three other starters, running back Jamal Lewis (ankle), wide receiver Braylon Edwards (shoulder) and defensive tackle Shaun Smith (hand), were limited in practice.

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The Ravens are using a running back by committee approach, but it will interesting to see how long that lasts, especially with Willis McGahee.

McGahee is back and fully recovered from a knee injury. Under normal circumstances, McGahee would probably be the starter again.

I don't know if Ravens head coach John Harbaugh is not starting McGahee because he is trying to send him a message for reporting to training camp out of shape. Maybe he wants to take it slow with McGahee. Maybe he doesn't want to shake the confidence of young running backs Ray Rice and Le'Ron McClain, who both played well in the opener.

It will be interesting to see how this situation is settled. It's one thing to play two running backs, but it's hard platooning three.

-----

I wonder if the Ravens are close to putting defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (knee) on injured reserve. Whenever it seems like Gregg is about to turn the corner and get back on the field, he suffers another setback.

-----

The Ravens did a good job of bracketing the Bengals' wide receivers in the opener, which prevented them from throwing long passes. I wonder if they will try it again against the Browns, especially with Braylon Edwards on the outside. Cleveland might be smart to take the intermediate stuff, which the Bengals didn't even attempt during most of the game.

Note to Chris McAlister: Watch the double move. That's the word on you around the league.

-----

I love the way Harbaugh attempts to control the media. He has us standing behind this imaginary line at daily news conferences and wants everybody seated when he enters the press room.

And he has only won ONE game.

Imagine if he wins TWO.

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (24)
        

When you bring in different people and different personalities from around the country, you expect them to have different allegiances. So it's not a shock that rookie running back Ray Rice, who was born and raised in New Rochelle, N.Y., is a fan of many teams in the Big Apple.

What is surprising is that hanging in Rice's locker is an authentic New York Yankees jersey featuring No. 42, which is the jersey of reliever Mariano Rivera.

Rice got the jersey through Joe Fosina, who headed the New Rochelle Youth Tackle program and works with Riddell where he takes care of the Yankees' uniforms.

"I said one day, 'Man, are you going to get me a Yankees jersey?'" Rice said today. "He actually sent it to me."

The jersey isn't signed, but Rice said he hopes to meet up with Rivera during the offseason to get his autograph. Rice said his first sport was baseball where he tried out as a left-handed pitcher. But basketball and football leapfrogged baseball as his athletic pursuits.

"It’s part of my New York pride," Rice said. "I just like the New York teams. I just don’t like when they play the Orioles now because I can’t wear my Yankees jersey. But I’m a fan of the New York teams. I’m just getting into baseball."

Posted by Edward Lee at 3:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

There were few changes from yesterday's practice with the exception of cornerback Corey Ivy and linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, both of whom were not present during the portion of practice open to the media today. Ivy sprained his right ankle in the team's season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, but was not listed on the injury report released yesterday.

Ayanbadejo, who is dealing with an injured right ankle, was listed as limited in practice yesterday. His status for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns does not look favorable.

Another player who may not play is defensive tackle Kelly Gregg, who is still recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. Gregg was not present during practice.

Other observations:

* Cornerbacks Fabian Washington (bulging disc in neck) and Derrick Martin (right shoulder), wide receivers Demetrius Williams (hamstring) and Yamon Figurs (hamstring) and tight end Todd Heap (wrist) took part in practice.

* Fullback Lorenzo Neal, who wears No. 42, wore No. 43 during practice. No. 43 currently belongs to rookie safety Haruki Nakamura, who was out there during practice. Not sure if there's any meaning behind that because Neal wore No. 41 when he was with the San Diego Chargers. Is another deal in the works?

Posted by Edward Lee at 1:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

One of the major pluses of having the bye was that rookie quarterback Joe Flacco didn't have to play on the road, and he had another full week to digest the playbook as well as the NFL game.

He'll now get another game under his belt before he has to go on the road.

The downside is that Flacco will have to travel to Pittsburgh for his first road game, which will be on Monday Night Football in front of a nationally televised audience. That's tough, even for a youngster as cool as Flacco.

Posted by Mike Preston at 5:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
        

As if the Ravens weren’t inspired enough by last season’s series sweep at the hands of the Cleveland Browns, they got some additional motivation courtesy of one Browns player and one Pittsburgh Steelers rival.

Someone from the Ravens staff copied, printed, and attached to the dry-erase board inside the Ravens locker room a quote from Browns starting cornerback Eric Wright, who spoke after Cleveland fell to 0-2 thanks to a 10-6 loss to the Steelers Sunday night.

"It’s a division opponent this week, so we’ve got to make sure we go out there and get a big win," Wright said in an USA Today article printed Tuesday.

Beneath that quote is one from familiar foe Hines Ward, who discussed in Monday’s edition of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Pittsburgh’s competition in the AFC North -- without mentioning the Ravens.

"We’re 2-0," Ward said. "Cincinnati and Cleveland are 0-2. They have to catch up to us. It is big. Everybody picked Cleveland as the team to beat. We came on the road and won up here, it speaks volumes for our team. ... We are the division champions from last year."

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (30)
        

The first injury report of the week has been released and -- as expected -- quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) has already been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. Defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic left knee surgery), who did not practice last Thursday and Friday, did not take part in practice today.

Cornerbacks Fabian Washington (bulging disc in neck) and Derrick Martin (right shoulder), wide receivers Demetrius Williams (hamstring) and Yamon Figurs (hamstring) and linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo (right ankle) were limited.

Tight end Todd Heap (wrist) fully participated in practice.

For the Browns, four starters -- linebacker Willie McGinest (hamstring), left guard Eric Steinbach (shoulder), wide receiver Donte Stallworth (strained quad) and safety Mike Adams (non-injury related) -- missed practice.

Three starters -- running back Jamal Lewis (ankle), wide receiver Braylon Edwards (shoulder) and defensive tackle Shaun Smith (hand) -- were limited, while fullback Lawrence Vickers (ribs) fully participated in practice.

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)
        

Doesn't have quite the same appeal as T.O., but E.O. -- also known as cornerback Evan Oglesby -- was signed by the Ravens two weeks ago. Oglesby, who played in eight games with the Dallas Cowboys last season, returns to the same organization that signed him off of the Buffalo Bills practice squad in 2005.

"To tell you the truth, I didn’t think they would call me," Oglesby said today. "But it was a surprising phone call, and it made me feel good to come back to an organization that I’m familiar with. I like the coaches and the schemes."

Oglesby said he was grateful to land with a defense that preaches aggression and risk-taking. His comfort level is rooted in his past experience in assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Rex Ryan's system.

"I know the schemes," said Oglesby, who could see extended action Sunday against the Cleveland Browns if cornerbacks Fabian Washington (bulging disc in neck) and Derrick Martin (right shoulder) can't play. "It’s all about getting the terminology down pat. That’s mostly what I’m focusing on right now."

Finally, Oglesby also reclaimed his old No. 25 jersey. Oglesby said he made a deal with rookie safety Tom Zbikowski, who switched to No. 28.

"We had an agreement," Oglesby said. "Fortunately, we were able to make that happen."

"Zib is a great guy," Oglesby continued. "I told him that I would like to have my number back. We agreed to terms."

Pressed to elaborate on those terms, Oglesby would only reply, "A strong handshake."

Posted by Edward Lee at 3:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Ravens rookie quarterback Joe Flacco is trying to make a name for himself in the league, but apparently hasn't made a name for himself in the Ravens locker room.

"I'm pretty sure Joe Falco is sleeping a lot better knowing that in Willie Anderson he's got a Hall of Fame veteran right tackle on his team," said Ravens defensive end Terrell Suggs.

Joe Falco, huh?

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
        

It appears that the unscheduled "bye week" caused by Hurricane Ike has benefited the Ravens in terms of injuries.

Cornerbacks Fabian Washington (neck) and Derrick Martin (right shoulder), wide receivers Demetrius Williams (hamstring) and Yamon Figurs (hamstring) and linebacker Brendan Ayanbadejo (right ankle) were present during practice this afternoon.

Washington, who said he is dealing with a bulging disc in his neck, took part in a few individual drills, and Ayanbadejo went into the locker room after participating in some special teams exercises, but Martin, Williams and Figurs appeared to practice with little difficulty.

The only players absent from the portion of practice open to the media were defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic left knee surgery) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection). Smith walked out onto the practice field and watched from the sidelines before also returning to the locker room.

Other notes:

• Cornerbacks Chris McAlister (swollen right knee) and Corey Ivy (sprained right ankle), fullbacks Le'Ron McClain (ankle) and Lorenzo Neal (hamstring), free safety Ed Reed (nerve impingement), defensive end Trevor Pryce (back), running back Willis McGahee (arthroscopic left knee surgery), tight end Todd Heap (back), center Jason Brown (ankle) and left offensive tackle Jared Gaither (ankle) -- players listed as probable for what was supposed to be this past weekend's game against the Houston Texans -- practiced.

• McGahee took up his usual position with the first offense, which also included Adam Terry at right offensive tackle. Willie Anderson lined up with the second unit. McAlister, Samari Rolle and Ivy were the first three cornerbacks on the field for the defense.

• The team re-signed defensive tackle J'Vonne Parker to the practice squad. To make room for Parker, the team released wide receiver Matt Willis.

Posted by Edward Lee at 1:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The key for the Ravens against the Browns will be controlling Cleveland's three down linemen, ends Corey Williams, Shaun Smith and nose tackle Shaun Rogers.

Rogers is a load and can occupy one or two blockers. He can also collapse the middle, allowing pressure to be put on the quarterback.

With a young quarterback like Flacco, it's essential to get a strong running game going. A key matchup will be Ravens center Jason Brown against Rogers.

Posted by Mike Preston at 12:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
        

Quarterback Troy Smith has been cleared to resume light workouts, the Ravens announced today. Dr. Andrew Tucker, the team's head physician, is scheduled to speak to reporters today about the development.

Smith came down with a tonsil infection just days before the Ravens' third preseason game and has not practiced with the team since. At one point, he had lost 20 pounds because of the illness.

Posted by Jamison Hensley at 1:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
        

With the Ravens off, it gave us a chance to get a good look at the rest of the NFL, particularly the AFC. The Ravens have a lot of work to do, but they aren't that far off. Clearly, New England remains the best-coached team in football. The Patriots are so sound, and they can beat you in so many ways. That Denver-San Diego game was exciting and filled with intensity. I can't see the Ravens having that kind of firepower offensively this season.

But if the Ravens stay healthy defensively they can be competitive with any of these teams, as long as they take care of the ball. No, I'm not saying that the Ravens are playoff bound. I'm not saying they are even going to win the AFC North.

I'm just saying that they aren't as far away as I and others thought. Cleveland doesn't scare me. Jacksonville is banged up on the offensive line and so is Indianapolis. Buffalo is playing well, but who knows if they are for real. I like what I see in Pittsburgh, and the Steelers should be there at the end as long as they can keep their quarterback healthy.

Over in the NFC, Dallas and the Giants are clearly the best. In the AFC, as long as Bill Belichick is the head coach, the Patriots will remain in contention.

Posted by Mike Preston at 11:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (22)
        

Boy, did NFL commissioner Roger Goodell blow this one.

Every weather report around the country had Hurricane Ike being severe and those reports were coming out early in the week.

Goodell should have just asked the Texans and their families to leave early and come to Baltimore. Instead, he rescheduled the game for Monday night in Houston.

After Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, everyone has been taking more precautions to avoid such devastation. Instead, the commissioner actually thought it was going to be OK to play a game in Houston on Monday night.

From what I understand, the Houston owner didn't want to lose the home date, but under the circumstances, he shouldn't have been given any options.

Posted by Mike Preston at 7:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (120)
        

If they can get the Texans out of Houston, why not just play the game in Baltimore?

Sure, the Texans wouldn't have home-field advantage, but right now the Texans don't have a home.

If they played the game here, there would be a nice crowd and I'm sure the league could work out financial compensation for the Houston franchise.

Posted by Mike Preston at 1:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (76)
        

I suspect the Ravens want to stay with a youth movement on offense.

So, they'll hold Pro Bowl offensive tackle Willie Anderson out as long as possible.

But if starting tackles Jared Gaither or Adam Terry falter, the Ravens will make a change bringing in Anderson, especially with rookie quarterback Joe Flacco in the starting lineup.

Posted by Mike Preston at 1:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

It will be interesting to see how the Ravens play safety Ed Reed for the remainder of the season. Before this season, the Ravens had no trouble putting Reed up near the line of scrimmage on run blitzes on first and second downs. But with the shoulder injury, it's unlikely they'll use him a lot like that in the future.

But what happens when the Ravens play a strong running team? Do they take Reed out on first and second downs, and just play him on third downs or passing situations? It will be an interesting call by the Ravens.

*********

The Ravens did get an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty last Sunday against the Bengals when cornerback Samari Rolle tossed the ball up in the air. I like Rolle because he is a stand-up guy, but the Ravens have to get a lid on that secondary.

Those guys like to do a lot of showboating, even the backups when they make tackles 10 yards away from the line of scrimmage.

*********

Hey Demetrius Williams? We're still waiting for you to become that speedy, vertical threat. Time is running out.

Posted by Mike Preston at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)
        

The Ravens released their second injury report of the week, and for the second consecutive day, cornerback Fabian Washington (neck), linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo (leg contusion) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) did not practice.

They were joined by defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic knee surgery) and return specialist Yamon Figurs (hamstring), who sat out.

Left offensive tackle Jared Gaither (ankle) was downgraded from full participation to limited. Defensive end Trevor Pryce (back) was added to the injury report, practicing on a limited basis.

Players who fully participated in practice included cornerbacks Chris McAlister (swollen right knee) and Corey Ivy (sprained right ankle), free safety Ed Reed (nerve impingement), tight end Todd Heap (back contusion), running back Willis McGahee (arthroscopic knee surgery), center Jason Brown (ankle) and fullback Le’Ron McClain (ankle).

On the Texans side, running back Ahman Green (sprained left ankle) did not practice for the second straight day. Three other starters -- defensive tackle Travis Johnson (knee), right offensive tackle Eric Winston (ankle) and left guard Chester Pitts (ankle) -- were limited in practice.

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

After practicing yesterday, defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic knee surgery), cornerback Derrick Martin (right shoulder) and wide receiver/return specialist Yamon Figurs (hamstring) did not appear during today's portion of practice open to the media.

Linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo (leg contusion), cornerback Fabian Washington (neck) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) also were not present. Those three players did not practice yesterday.

Players who were present and active today are cornerbacks Chris McAlister (swollen right knee) and Corey Ivy (sprained right ankle), free safety Ed Reed (nerve impingement), running back Willis McGahee (arthroscopic knee surgery), fullback Le’Ron McClain (ankle), tight end Todd Heap (back contusion), center Jason Brown (ankle) and offensive tackle Jared Gaither (ankle).

Posted by Edward Lee at 1:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

In with one defensive tackle, out with another?

The best news for the Ravens was the reappearance of Kelly Gregg, who missed Sunday's season opener and the entire preseason after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. The knee was wrapped, but Gregg took part in individual and positions drills.

But defensive tackle Haloti Ngata was not present during the portion of practice open to the media today. Ngata was not reported to be injured after Sunday's game.

Others who were absent included cornerback Fabian Washington (neck), linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo (leg contusion) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection).

Cornerbacks Chris McAlister (swollen right knee), Derrick Martin (right shoulder) and Corey Ivy (sprained right ankle), as well as tight end Todd Heap (back contusion) practiced.

Posted by Edward Lee at 1:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

As well as Le'Ron McClain and Ray Rice played against the Cincinnati Bengals in the Ravens' 17-10 victory yesterday, Willis McGahee may reclaim his role as the featured tailback in the offense.

Coach Harbaugh said McGahee, who suited up but did not play yesterday, will take a more active role in practice this week with an eye on taking the field against the Houston Texans on Sunday.

"He needs to be ready to go, and I'm confident he'll be ready to go this week," Harbaugh said of McGahee. "... If he can do the job, he'll be out there."

Harbaugh also said that free safety Ed Reed will continue to be listed as day-to-day despite his performance in yesterday's victory. "I think nothing's changed in that sense," Harbaugh said.

Harbaugh expressed hope that defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic knee surgery) and linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo (leg contusion) would be able to play in Houston. Cornerback Corey Ivy called his right ankle sprain "minor" and said he anticipates playing against the Texans.

Other notes:

• Harbaugh was pleased with the offensive line's display, which included zero sacks and 229 rushing yards. "They were physical for four quarters, and they can be more physical," he said.

Harbaugh also noted that recently-signed offensive tackle Willie Anderson, who was deactivated for yesterday's contest, would play, but he declined to say whether Anderson would rotate with either left tackle Jared Gaither or right tackle Adam Terry. "We have a plan, and we're hopeful it's a good plan."

• Hurricane Ike is in the Caribbean and is projected to make it way to the Gulf Coast -- with some saying that the storm could hit Houston prior to Sunday's game. Harbaugh didn't seem fazed by that possibility. "The game's inside [Reliant Stadium, which has a retractable roof], right?" he asked. "We'll be alright. We'll play."

• Following yesterday's win, Harbaugh did not award a game ball to a specific player or unit. Instead, he said the game ball "goes to the entire team." So equipment manager Ed Carroll has ordered 94 footballs painted to commemorate the victory for the 53 active-roster players, nine for the practice-squad players, eight for the injured-reserve players, 23 for the coaching staff and one for team owner Steve Bisciotti.

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)
        

After the Ravens' 17-10 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, Bengals fans took out their frustration on ... Willie Anderson?

The Anderson who was a four-time Pro Bowl offensive tackle drafted by Cincinnati with the 10th overall pick in the 1996 draft? The same Anderson who had been the Bengals' four-time nominee for the NFL/Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, which honors excellence on and off the field? The same Anderson who regularly donated tickets in his private suite to underprivileged children?

Anderson, who was signed by the Ravens Friday after being released by Cincinnati Aug. 30, has been the target of immense vitriol by Bengals fans. In a message thread titled "CHEATIN [synonym for butt] WILLIE" on Go-Bengals.com, the administrator accuses Anderson of conspiring with the Ravens' defensive coaches and pointing out Cincinnati's offensive formations and tendencies before dropping a number of expletives about Anderson.

Bengals wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh wasn't as vicious, but he also got into the act after the game. "Obviously with them having Willie, I'm sure he went over there and ran his mouth, but that's what he's supposed to," Houshmandzadeh said. "He's not here anymore, so what would you expect him to do?"

At least Houshmandzadeh spread the wealth and blasted the Cincinnati offense that currently ranks last after racking up just 154 yards and a field goal yesterday.

"We sucked basically," he said. "Everybody who got a chance to play -- what was there, maybe 13 or 14 of us? -- we just suck on offense right now. That's terrible. We can't move the ball, we can't get a first down, we can't run, we can't throw. We just didn't play good on offense -- bottom line."

Posted by Edward Lee at 1:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (25)
        

It's only one game, but I feel good about this offense and the coaching staff. The offense did some nice things yesterday, and kept the Bengals off balance. Rookie quarterback Joe Flacco was left in a good position to manage the game because he faced a lot of third-and-4s, and third-and-5s. I also liked the way the Ravens finished off Cincy by running the ball and controlling the clock. The Ravens set up plays well in advance too.

It took nearly a decade, but the Ravens have a good offensive staff in place.

***

Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer hasn't been the same since he suffered the knee injury several years ago. It might be his throwing motion because a lot of his throws sail on him now.
As for the rest of the team, the Bengals are a mess. There were numerous times that the offensive line failed to block Ravens linebackers who crashed the line of scrimmage without being hit. Bengals coach Marvin Lewis might be looking for a new job soon.

***

True story: At one point during the game, Bengals receiver Chad Johnson was talking to Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, pleading for Ryan to single him up man-on-man so he could catch a pass. The Ravens did a nice job of "coning" Johnson underneath and over the top.

***

I don't think we need to worry about tight end Todd Heap. He dropped a touchdown pass and fumbled once yesterday, but he'll be fine. Heap just needs to practice more often.

***

I'll be on the new sports station at WCBM (1370-AM) on Monday's from 4 to 6. I'll be there this evening.

Posted by Mike Preston at 8:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)
        

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson legally changed his name Chad Ocho Cinco, but the Associated Press reported today that the NFL decided against allowing him to put his name on his jersey.

“While the NFL has recognized the legal name change of Chad Johnson to Chad Ocho Cinco, the league informed the Bengals today that certain issues remain to be resolved before Ocho Cinco will be permitted to wear his new surname on his jersey,” the league said in a statement.
“He will wear the name Johnson on his jersey today and will be referred to as Chad Johnson on the official play-by-play sheet,” the statement said. “Further questions should be directed to the league office.”

Contacted today by The Associated Press, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said, “He has a financial obligation to Reebok, which produces the jerseys available to fans. That has to be resolved before the on-field jersey can be changed.

“The same obligation exists for any player that changes his number or name.”

Posted by Ron Fritz at 1:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Baltimore native and Denver Nuggets star Carmelo Anthony is the honorary captain during the coin toss prior to today’s game.

Anthony, who played at Towson Catholic, said he brought the gold medal that he won as part of the victorious U.S. men’s basketball team to M&T Bank Stadium. But he said that taking part in today’s contest ranked higher than appearing on The Oprah Winfrey show.

“It’s a big deal to be at the Ravens’ first game,” said Anthony, who wore a No. 15 Ravens jersey. “I never thought I would be here for the coin toss. It’s just an honor for me being from Baltimore and being the honorary captain for the Baltimore Ravens-Cincinnati Bengals game. You can’t ask for nothing better than that.”

Asked to give a prediction for today's game, Anthony said, "24-13." In the Ravens' favor? "Yeah, Ravens. Of course."

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

In addition to free safety Ed Reed being active for today's season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, rookie Ray Rice will start at tailback in place of Willis McGahee. McGahee, who has been limited in practice all week after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee last month, is dressed, but Rice, who averaged 5.6 yards per carry in four preseason games, will get the start.

Defensive tackle Justin Bannan will start in place of Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic knee surgery). Rookie kickoff specialist Steven Hauschka is also active. Troy Smith, who hasn't played in the last three weeks due to a tonsil infection, is listed as the emergency (No. 3) quarterback.

Four-time Pro Bowl offensive tackle Willie Anderson, who signed a three-year, $11 million deal with the Ravens on Friday, is inactive and will not play. Joining Anderson and Gregg on the inactive list are cornerback Evan Oglesby, rookie offensive linemen Oniel Cousins and David Hale, rookie wide receiver Marcus Smith (separated right shoulder) and rookie linebacker Tavares Gooden.

Posted by Edward Lee at 12:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Ravens announced the signing of Pro Bowl offensive tackle Willie Anderson today. It was a good move in that in provided depth, but I don't understand why they signed him to a three-year deal. Anderson is 33. John Harbaugh wouldn't commit to Anderson becoming a starter, but if Jared Gaither or Adam Terry struggle, they will quickly get the hook.

***

The good news coming out of practice today was that starting defensive tackle Kelly Gregg participated in some drills with the team. Gregg hasn't practice since having arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. Running back Willis McGahee also didn't miss any reps.

***

Harbaugh said there has been no plans to put quarterback Troy Smith on injured reserve and he plans on having Smith return and compete for the starting job.

Posted by Mike Preston at 2:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)
        

The Ravens are close to signing former Bengals Pro Bowl offensive tackle Willie Anderson to a three-year contract worth $11 million. Anderson probably can't play Sunday against his former team, but he might be able to provide the Ravens with some tips.

Posted by Mike Preston at 7:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)
        

The Ravens' second injury report has been released and not much has changed.

For the second consecutive day, defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic knee surgery) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) did not practice.

Also, free safety Ed Reed (nerve impingement in neck and shoulder), tight end Todd Heap (right calf) and running back Willis McGahee (arthroscopic knee surgery) were limited in practice today.

Two additions -- right guard Marshal Yanda (thumb) and rookie offensive tackle Oniel Cousins (back) -- fully participated in practice.

On the Bengals side, starting defense tackle John Thornton was added to the report, as he was limited by a knee injury. Running back Kenny Watson (hamstring) was also limited.

Joining quarterback Carson Palmer (broken nose) and wide receiver Chad Johnson (torn labrum in left shoulder) as players who fully participated in practice were wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh (hamstring) and defensive end Antwan Odom (foot).

Posted by Edward Lee at 5:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

Much like yesterday, defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic knee surgery) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) did not appear during the portion of practice open to the media and likely won't practice today.

Aside from those two, everyone else was at practice. It was interesting to note that of the three quarterbacks, only Todd Bouman did not wear a red, non-contact jersey.

Also, cornerback Evan Oglesby was signed and is in the building, but he was not at practice.

Posted by Edward Lee at 1:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The outcome of the Ravens' game against the Bengals Sunday might be determined in the first half.

While Ravens officials keep talking about how cool rookie quarterback Joe Flacco has been this week, he won't be so cool Sunday afternoon with 70,000 packed in M&T Bank Stadium.

We've already seen Flacco panic in preseason games. Fortunately, he has gotten more comfortable and better with each series. So, maybe by halftime, he'll put those butterflies away and we'll see more of the true Joe Flacco.

• It was interesting listening to John Harbaugh talk about running back Willis McGahee Wednesday afternoon. McGahee has practiced very little during training camp, and Harbaugh might go with rookie Ray Rice more than usual even if McGahee returns.

'The interesting thing about coaching is you don't go from February to July to the season," Harbaugh said. "You plan from February or March, but it really is day to day. So when you've got Ray Rice out there practicing, and you don't have Willis McGahee, that's what you do. That's what you become. So, Willis is a bonus in my mind because he hasn't been practicing, anyway. If he gets out there, it's going to be great to have him out there. We've got to play on Sunday with the guys we've got, and we plan on playing very well."

• The Ravens have interest in former Bengals All-Pro offensive tackle Willie Anderson. They should know if they can sign Anderson within a week. Anderson would be a good addition to the team, and is probably better than the two starting tackles currently on the Ravens' roster.

Posted by Mike Preston at 10:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (18)
        

Brian Billick emphasizes that since he is no longer the head coach of the Ravens, any observations he might have on the Ravens are from an outsider's point of view -- albeit from an outsider who has spent 20 years in the NFL.

But he was willing to comment on this year's version of the franchise he had a hand in shaping for nine seasons. Speaking at Della Rose's Tavern in Baltimore to announce a partnership with WNST (1570 AM), Billick pointed out that injuries (Kyle Boller's right shoulder) and illness (Troy Smith's tonsils) have played a more prominent role in determining rookie Joe Flacco's role as the starting quarterback against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.

"Obviously, there’s not a lot of decisions to be made," Billick said. "I noticed that they signed one of my old quarterbacks, Todd Bouman. I tried to get Todd a few years ago, but I couldn’t talk Ozzie into it. Todd’s a good man and a good quarterback. [The setbacks to Boller and Smith have] kind of made the decision for them, which kind of makes it easier. I like what I see in Joe Flacco, but obviously there’s going to be a growth spurt."

With his work on FOX and his new project on WNST, Billick said he hasn't made it a point to study the Ravens’ preseason struggles.

"Quite frankly, I’ve been absorbing other things and probably on purpose," he said. "But I talk with [general manager] Ozzie [Newsome] once a week and [team spokesman] Kevin Byrne. We tend not to go there. We talk about a few things. So I’ve been aware of it on the peripheral, but it’s kind of standard operating procedure in the NFL. You deal with injuries, you deal with transition. Anytime you start a rookie quarterback, now you’ll remember we went 10-6 when we started our rookie quarterback. That doesn’t necessarily dictate that it’s going to be one way or the other, but it is a challenge."

But Billick said he won't be reluctant to offer his commentary on what's wrong and what's right with the Ravens.

"I'm not going to criticize anybody just to criticize," he said. "I'm certainly going to comment, I'm going to critique, and I'm going to give my opinion. Sometimes that will be well-received and sometimes that won't. It's an opinion. That's all it really is."

Posted by Edward Lee at 8:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (21)
        

Maybe wide receiver Chad Johnson is still bitter that the Cincinnati Bengals did not satisfy his demand for a trade. Maybe the partially torn labrum in his left shoulder is painful. Maybe his Special K wasn't so special.

Either way, Johnson wasn't too happy this morning when a reporter read aloud a passage written by the Bengals public-relations staff in the team's pre-game notes. The section read, "Following an offseason at Base Camp 8365, Chad Johnson now begins his ascent toward the 10,000 mark in career receiving yards. He likely won't make it this year, but Ocho Cinco himself might dispute that. He needs 1,635 yards. The Bengals season record is 1,440 yards, set of course by Johnson last year."

After he heard the passage, Johnson said, "Who said I won't make it? Who wrote that? How many yards do I need to reach that 10,000 mark? Just curious. And they said I wouldn't make it? My own press said I wouldn't make it. Am I correct? OK, you know what, there it is. That just lights fuel under the fire. You see how they do me?"

Johnson was then asked what name will be on the back of his jersey Sunday. Johnson waved off the question before getting a dig at current Ravens quarterbacks coach Hue Jackson, who -- as the Bengals wide receivers coach between 2004 and 2006 -- reportedly clashed with Johnson.

"I need you all to tell Hue I love him," Johnson said. "If you all get a chance, let Hue Jackson [know]. Tell him I said 'I love you, man, and thank you for all you've done.' What he's helped me do, I'm going to actually release it out on the Ravens Sunday. Tell him I said thank you."

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

Here we go.

Defensive tackle Kelly Gregg (arthroscopic knee surgery) and quarterback Troy Smith (tonsil infection) did not practice. Smith has been essentially ruled out by coach John Harbaugh for Sunday's home and season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. Gregg may also join Smith on the sidelines.

Free safety Ed Reed (nerve impingement), running back Willis McGahee (arthroscopic knee surgery) and tight end Todd Heap (right calf) were limited in practice.

On the Bengals' side, quarterback Carson Palmer (broken nose) and wide receiver Chad Johnson (partially torn labrum in left shoulder) fully participated in practice. Starting fullback Jeremi Johnson (knee) did not practice.

Posted by Edward Lee at 4:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

While No. 85 on the Cincinnati Bengals went through the proper channels to change his name from Chad Johnson to Chad "Ocho Cinco," No. 85 on the Ravens made clear his thoughts on the matter.

In the team's pre-game notes, Derrick Mason, as the subject of the week's "Outtakes" edition, was asked about his feelings on Johnson's new nomenclature.

"I don't know," Mason was quoted as saying. "I think that's a slap to your mother's face when you try to legally change your name. My mother gave me the name Derrick Mason for a reason, so I'm going to keep it. But I know that he does it all in fun. In the business, the more attention you get, the more money you get paid, especially the way he plays. The guy is unbelievable at that position. He garners the attention on the field. He's not just talking the talk."

Earlier today, Mason seemed to soften his stance on the matter.

"I don't have time for all that, man," he said with a laugh. "I'm a football player. I don't have time for all that. My mother named me Mason for a reason. First name Derrick, middle name James, for a reason. I have no time to change my name right now. You kind of pull yourself away from football that way. But Chad is a hell of a player. And if anybody can do it, he can do it. But that's not me. I'm sticking with what's on the back of my jersey, and that's Mason."

Posted by Edward Lee at 3:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Not to say you've memorized these numbers during the preseason, but a number of Ravens were wearing different numbers on their jerseys at practice today and will be for the season opener Sunday against Cincinnati.

The most notable, considering how much he is expected to play, is rookie running Ray Rice, who went back to the number he wore at Rutgers (27) instead of the 39 he was issued back in the spring.

Others who changed numbers were rookie linebackers Jameel McClain (from 48 to 53) and Tavares Gooden (49 to 56) as well as Edgar Jones (46 to 84 after being switched from linebacker to tight end).

And newly-signed quarterback Todd Bouman will wear No. 2.

Posted by Don Markus at 1:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

I'm getting a little concerned about defensive tackle Kelly Gregg. He had arthroscopic knee surgery last month and still hasn't practiced.

According to Gregg, he has been swimming as much as Michael Phelps to rehab, and he sleeps at night with an electronic device shooting impulses through his knee.

But nothing can settle his knee down and reduce the swelling. It's looking more and more likely that he won't be able to play Sunday against the Bengals.

Posted by Mike Preston at 1:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

Quarterback Kyle Boller's career in Baltimore probably just ended. Ravens coach John Harbaugh announced that Boller will be put on injured reserve. Harbaugh said Boller either has a biceps injury or a torn labrum. Boller was taking medication for the labrum, but Harbaugh said the injury did not respond. The Ravens replaced Boller on the roster with Todd Bouman, 36, who has played with six teams during his career.

As I mentioned yesterday, Bouman probably came cheap and he is non-threatening as far as challenging rookie starter Joe Flacco or eventual backup Troy Smith.

Boller was in the last year of his contract. He never lived up to his promise in Baltimore as a first-round pick. He was hurried into action in the first game of his rookie year, and his biggest flaw was his decision-making in the red zone.

Posted by Mike Preston at 12:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (44)
        

Contrary to published reports, the Ravens have not signed or agreed to a contract with Todd Bouman as their backup quarterback.

The Ravens are still involved in negotiations with Bouman and Joey Harrington. The Ravens also worked out Chris Simms Monday, but he is no longer in the running. The team could have a backup in place tonight.

And this is the truth.

Posted by Mike Preston at 4:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (35)
        

Todd Bouman?

Wow. Todd Bouman?

The Ravens reportedly signed him to a one-year deal as the newest quarterback, and backup to Joe Flacco. Since he is the weakest of the three that the Ravens worked out Monday (the other two were Joey Harrington and Chris Simms), I think the Ravens signed him because he was the least of a threat to Flacco. At least the rookie doesn't have to keep looking over his shoulder.

I also suspect he was the cheapest and fit GM Ozzie Newsome's theme of "right player, right price."

Anyway, it's no big deal. As soon as I heard the Ravens might sign Harrington, I wrote this season off.

Todd Bouman?

Posted by Mike Preston at 3:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

With players hustling out of the locker room to get to meetings this afternoon, few had time to talk. Thankfully, coach John Harbaugh turned lemons into lemonade by confirming that running back Willis McGahee and cornerback Chris McAlister practiced today.

McGahee, who has missed all four preseason games after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, sat out only one regular-season contest for the Ravens last season.

"I wouldn’t say he’s 100 percent just [from] watching him run around out there," Harbaugh said of McGahee. "But he was out there. We’ll just have to see how he progresses this week. He wants to be out there, I know that.”

Harbaugh was similarly optimistic about McAlister, who has been sidelined from the exhibition games due to a swollen right knee. "All you can go by is what you see," Harbaugh said. "In practice today, he did a nice job. So that’s where we’re at."

Harbaugh also reiterated what free safety Ed Reed said on Friday -- that there is no timetable for Reed's return until the nerve impingement in his neck and shoulder is taken care of and treated.

"I think it’s day-by-day with Ed -- realistically," Harbaugh said. "It’s just one of those deals where -- and he said it -- it’s day-by-day. He’s going to need practice at some point in time to be ready to play, and when he can practice, we’ll prepare him properly, and he’ll be ready to play. I know he’s working hard to get to that point."

Posted by Edward Lee at 6:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

As Ravens quarterback Troy Smith sat in front of his locker, he looked like a person who was rebounding from a serious illness. He looked like a person who has lost anywhere from 15 to 25 pounds, and his face had sunken in.

Smith appeared to be in high spirits, and talked about how good it felt to be in the locker room and joking with the guys again.

I don't think Smith really cared who was the starting quarterback. He seemed happy because he was feeling better.

Posted by Mike Preston at 6:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

The Ravens signed former Redskins running back Marcus Mason to the practice squad.

It doesn't sound like a big deal, but the kid was impressive during minicamp. He ran hard, showed power and elusiveness.

With starting running back Willis McGahee still struggling with the knee injury, the Ravens might be forced to play Mason, who was originally signed by the Redskins in May of 2007.

Posted by Mike Preston at 4:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)