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Luke Jones

Looking to boost CB depth, Ravens sign Gorrer from practice squad

Luke Jones

With Jimmy Smith sidelined for a few weeks and Chris Carr’s short-term status also unknown, the Ravens have signed defensive back Danny Gorrer from the practice squad to boost their depleted depth at cornerback. To make room on the 53-man roster, the Ravens have waived linebacker Jason Phillips. The third-year Texas Christian product was inactive for the season opener against Pittsburgh after dealing with a concussion in the days leading up to the game. Gorrer is a former Texas A&M product who was an undrafted rookie free agent in 2009. He played in three games with the St. Louis Rams in 2009. The Ravens signed him to their practice squad last season, and he was on the team’s training camp roster before being waived and signed to the practice squad at the beginning of September. With Smith and Carr ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Titans, the Ravens only had four healthy cornerbacks on the roster, one of them being rookie Chykie Brown. In comments made by defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano and head coach John Harbaugh earlier in the week, it was apparent the Ravens don’t have a great deal of confidence in Brown to contribute defensively at this

Ravens-Titans: Five predictions for Sunday

Luke Jones

The Ravens will take on the Tennessee Titans franchise for the 17th time in the regular season. The teams are deadlocked at 8-8, though Baltimore holds the 2-1 edge in postseason meetings. Baltimore is 4-4 when playing on the road in the regular season against Tennessee. Of course, the two are old rivals from the now defunct AFC Central. Since NFL realignment took place in 2002, the Ravens are 3-3 against Tennessee in regular-season games. Without further ado, here are five predictions for what to expect in Week 2 … 1. A pick-six gives the Ravens their first defensive touchdown of the year. Perhaps the only stat more surprising than Pittsburgh’s seven turnovers in the Ravens’ 35-7 win last week was that none of those takeaways resulted in defensive touchdowns with the Baltimore defense’s reputation for turning turnovers into instant points. Tennessee quarterback Matt Hasselbeck tossed 34 interceptions over his last two seasons with Seattle and likes to take chances from time to time. With the Titans likely falling behind as the game progresses, Hasselbeck will be forced to take more chances in the passing game. Cornerback Cary Williams was a seventh-round draft pick by the Titans in 2009 and

Ravens rule out Carr, J. Smith; Grubbs doubtful for Sunday

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Despite optimism regarding the treatment and rehabilitation he received for his injured toe on Friday, it appears Ben Grubbs will be unavailable to the Ravens on Sunday. The starting left guard missed his third straight practice on Friday and is listed as doubtful for the Ravens’ Week 2 matchup with the Tennessee Titans. Earlier in the day, coach John Harbaugh labeled Grubbs as a game-time decision, but it’s likely the fifth-year lineman will miss the first game of his NFL career. “Even though it’s a small part of your body, it’s a huge part in running around, pushing off, and blocking, especially for my position,” Grubbs said prior to the release of Friday’s injury report. “It’s my first time experiencing this, so I don’t really know what to expect. You just hope that, God willing, I’ll be able to play.” Veteran backup center Andre Gurode will likely start in Grubbs’ place at left guard. The 10th-year veteran started 28 games at guard in 2003 and 2004 before being switched to center where he earned five Pro Bowl selections for the Cowboys. The Ravens will also be undermanned in the secondary as both Jimmy Smith and Chris

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens without key lineman for third straight practice

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — After receiving much praise for its performance in a convincing season-opening win over Pittsburgh, the Ravens offensive line may be without one of its key members in Tennessee on Sunday. Starting left guard Ben Grubbs was absent for the third straight day during the portion of practice open to the media, further diminishing his chances of playing as he continues to deal with a right toe injury. The former Auburn product has not missed a game in his career as he begins his fifth season. Should Grubbs not be able to play, former Cowboys center Andre Gurode would likely get the start at left guard and is listed as Grubbs’ backup on the depth chart. Prior to switching to center in Dallas where he became a five-time Pro Bowl selection, Gurode started 28 games at guard in 2003 and 2004 with the Cowboys. Cornerbacks Chris Carr (hamstring) and Jimmy Smith (high ankle sprain) were also missing from the open portion of practice. Smith will not play, and doubts continue about Carr’s status after he aggravated the left hamstring injury he’s dealt with for over a month. Assuming both cornerbacks are sidelined for Sunday, veteran Domonique Foxworth

Ravens' Evans a full participant on Thursday's injury report

Luke Jones

After not participating and watching practice with his left foot in a walking boot on Wednesday, wide receiver Lee Evans returned to work as a full participant on Thursday to ease concerns regarding his status for Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans. There were no other changes from Wednesday’s report as cornerbacks Jimmy Smith (ankle) and Chris Carr (hamstring) and guard Ben Grubbs (toe) sat out for a second straight day. BALTIMORE OUT – NONE DID NOT PARTICIPATE – CB Chris Carr (hamstring), G Ben Grubbs (toe), Jimmy Smith (ankle) LIMITED – NONE FULL PARTICIPANT – WR Lee Evans (ankle) TENNESSEE OUT – NONE DID NOT PARTICIPATE – S Chris Hope (shoulder), WR Damian Williams (hamstring), DE Williams Hayes (shoulder) LIMITED – WR Nate Washington (non-injury related) FULL PARTICIPATION – DE Jason Jones (knee), DE Derrick Morgan (knee), RB Javon Ringer (back)

Titans' Johnson one of many "casualties" of Ravens defense over years

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Ravens have been fortunate not to face Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson over the last two seasons in which he’s rushed for a combined 3,234 yards — 2,006 of those coming in 2009. The last time the two teams faced was the 2008 playoffs when Johnson ran all over the Ravens in a 72-yard first-half performance in an eventual 13-10 defensive struggle that sent Baltimore to the AFC championship game. If not for an ankle injury that sidelined the rookie running back late in the first half, the Titans may have been the ones taking on the Pittsburgh Steelers the following week. Rex Ryan’s defense had no answers for the lightning-fast tailback, who also compiled 28 yards receiving out of the backfield, prior to being sidelined. “I’m happy he left the game, because he was on the verge of breaking over 200 yards on us, I think,” defensive tackle Haloti Ngata said. “He did really well in that first half, and I think it was a good thing he went down.” The memory of that disappointing loss for the Titans — the No. 1 seed following the 2008 season — has resurfaced this week

Live from Owings Mills: Evans returns to practice; Grubbs, Carr still missing

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — As concern grew over Lee Evan’s injured left ankle on Wednesday, the wide receiver announced his intention to play against the Titans prior to returning to practice on Thursday. After wearing a walking boot and not participating a day earlier, Evans arrived on the field dressed to practice and took part in drills with the other wide receivers during the portion of practice open to the media. Though unlikely to be 100 percent for the Week 2 matchup on Sunday, Evans will continue to work through the left ankle injury that’s hampered him since the third preseason game against the Washington Redskins. Left guard Ben Grubbs was missing from practice for the second straight day and was seen wearing a walking boot on his right foot. He was listed with a toe injury on Wednesday’s official injury report after dealing with a thigh issue before the season opener against Pittsburgh. Should Grubbs not be able to play on Sunday, the Ravens would likely turn to backup center Andre Gurode — who also played guard during his time with the Dallas Cowboys — or veteran lineman Mark LeVoir to take his place on the starting offensive line.

Evans' left ankle lands him on Ravens injury report

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With cornerbacks Jimmy Smith and Chris Carr battling injuries to weaken a deep secondary, the Ravens had two new additions to Wednesday’s injury report that might raise a few eyebrows in anticipation of Sunday’s trip to Tennessee. Receiver Lee Evans was back in a walking boot on Wednesday as he continues to deal with a left ankle injury that’s hindered him since the third preseason game against the Washington Redskins on Aug. 25. The 30-year-old was present at practice but wearing a protective boot on his left foot as he watched the other Baltimore receivers take part in drills. Left guard Ben Grubbs appeared on the injury report for the second straight week, now dealing with a toe injury after appearing on last Friday’s listing with a thigh issue. However, Grubbs made it through the entire game last Sunday without any apparent limitations. BALTIMORE OUT – NONE DID NOT PARTICIPATE – CB Chris Carr (hamstring), G Ben Grubbs (toe), WR Lee Evans (ankle), Jimmy Smith (ankle) LIMITED – NONE TENNESSEE OUT – NONE DID NOT PARTICIPATE – S Chris Hope (shoulder), WR Damian Williams (hamstring) LIMITED – DE Williams Hayes (shoulder) FULL PARTICIPATION – DE Jason

Turning from known to unknown as Ravens prepare for transitioning Titans

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — After weeks of preparing for a hated adversary they know almost as well as they know themselves, the Ravens turn their attention to the new-look Tennessee Titans for a Week 2 matchup in Nashville on Sunday. With a new head coach and a new starting quarterback, the Titans find themselves climbing out of the shadows of a mostly-successful 16-year run under former coach Jeff Fisher and trying to right themselves after a disappointing 16-14 loss to the Jaguars in Week 1. New quarterback Matt Hasselbeck managed to throw for 263 yards, but the Titans surrendered 163 yards on the ground to Jacksonville. On paper, the Ravens are the clear favorites, but preparing for a team with a new coaching staff and only a small amount of tape to view weighs on the Ravens’ minds in trying to get off to a 2-0 start for the fifth time in franchise history. As challenging as it is to take on Pittsburgh, the preparation is largely about minor details when you know an opponent so well. The Ravens haven’t faced Tennessee since Baltimore’s playoff victory in Nashville on Jan. 10, 2009 — when the Titans had a noticeably different

Live from Owings Mills: Evans back in walking boot, not practicing

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Back on the practice field and shifting their attention toward the Tennessee Titans, the Ravens found veteran receiver Lee Evans back in a walking boot. The 30-year-old receiver was held without a catch in Sunday’s 35-7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers and played an effective decoy to clear space underneath for fellow receiver Anquan Boldin as well as the Ravens’ tight ends and running backs. However, Evans lacked the same explosion seen in the third preseason game against the Washington Redskins and was not practicing on Wednesday afternoon. Left guard Ben Grubbs was also missing during the portion of practice open for media viewing and may still be dealing with the thigh injury that landed him on the injury report — listed as probable — against Pittsburgh on Friday. The fifth-year lineman played the entire game against the Steelers with no apparent limitations. The other two missing from practice were far less surprising as cornerbacks Jimmy Smith (ankle) and Chris Carr (hamstring) were not present on the field during practice. Smith is expected to miss a few weeks, according to coach John Harbaugh, while Carr continues to deal with a nagging hamstring injury that’s hindered him

Orioles release 2012 schedule

Luke Jones

PRESS RELEASE, courtesy of the Orioles public relations staff The Orioles will kick off their 20th anniversary season at Oriole Park at Camden Yards with an Opening Day game on April 6, 2012 against the Minnesota Twins, 20 years to the day after the ballpark originally opened. The game is the first of a six-day season-opening homestand that will also see the New York Yankees come to Baltimore. The Orioles will play each of their AL East rivals three times at Oriole Park. In addition to their opening homestand trip from April 9-11, the New York Yankees will make a two-game stop in Baltimore May 14-15 and play a four-game weekend series, September 6-9. The Red Sox will have three three-game series at Camden Yards – May 21-23, August 14-16 and September 28-30. The Tampa Bay Rays will make their first trip to Oriole Park the weekend of May 11-13, followed by two more three-game series July 24-26 and September 11-13. The Toronto Blue Jays will play in Baltimore April 24-26, August 24-26 and September 24-26. In Interleague Play in 2012 the Philadelphia Phillies will make a weekend trip to Camden Yards, June 8-10, followed by a mid-week visit by

Morning Reaction Tuesday Top 7 Ravens for Week 1

Luke Jones

Below are our Top 7 Ravens players in the dominating 35-7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday. We’ll track our rankings throughout the 2011 season with the following point system: No. 1 – 7 points No. 2 – 6 points No. 3 – 5 points No. 4 – 4 points No. 5 – 3 points No. 6 – 2 points No. 7 – 1 point Luke Jones’ Top 7… 7. Matt Birk 6. Ed Reed 5. Ray Rice 4. Joe Flacco 3. Bryant McKinnie 2. Haloti Ngata 1. Terrell Suggs Drew Forrester’s Top 7… 7. Ed Reed 6. Ray Rice 5. Lardarius Webb 4. Haloti Ngata 3. Terrell Suggs 2. Joe Flacco 1. Bryant McKinnie SEASON TO DATE: Luke: 1. Terrell Suggs (7 points) 2. Haloti Ngata (6 points) 3. Bryant McKinnie (5 points) 4. Joe Flacco (4 points) 5. Ray Rice (3 points) 6. Ed Reed (2 points) 7. Matt Birk (1 point) Drew: 1. Bryant McKinnie (7 points) 2. Joe Flacco (6 points) 3. Terrell Suggs (5 points) 4. Haloti Ngata (4 points) 5. Lardarius Webb (3 points) 6. Ray Rice (2 points) 7. Ed Reed (1 point)

Ravens suddenly hurting at cornerback with loss of Jimmy Smith

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The cornerback position was one of the Ravens’ deepest units entering the season, and they’ll have use that depth after losing two corners in Sunday’s win against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Rookie Jimmy Smith and veteran Chris Carr left the game in the first half and did not return. However, the high ankle sprain sustained by Smith on the kickoff following the Ravens’ first touchdown is considered the more serious of the two. Carr once again aggravated a left hamstring injury that’s lingered for four weeks. Smith remained on crutches and a walking boot on Monday after an MRI revealed a high ankle sprain. The 27th overall pick in April’s draft is expected to miss a “few weeks” in the words of coach John Harbaugh. “We’ll just have to see how it plays out,” Harbaugh said. “Hopefully, he’s a quick healer. That was a tough one. Hey, first kickoff, he runs down there, he’s fighting like crazy, and gets caught up in a pile.” With Smith leaving the game after the opening kickoff and Carr exiting in the second quarter, the Ravens mainly used the combination of starter Cary Williams and Lardarius Webb, with Domonique Foxworth —

Flacco, Ravens answer questions emphatically in beating of Pittsburgh

Luke Jones

BALTIMORE — Putting blind optimism aside, there were plenty of Ravens fans bracing themselves internally for Sunday’s regular-season opener to be the latest chapter in a long series of excruciating disappointments against the Pittsburgh Steelers — even if you won’t admit to being one of them. After all, the Ravens hadn’t beaten Pittsburgh in a game started by Ben Roethlisberger since 2006. No matter how much you think you’re “due” against a given opponent, you’ll always fight the lingering feeling of not knowing when — or if — you’ll ever snap out of it. That is until you do it, and the Ravens erased all doubts with a 35-7 pummeling of the Steelers in which they dominated all three facets of the game. The offensive line, composed of newcomer Bryant McKinnie and the recovering Matt Birk, dominated up front, allowing just one Pittsburgh sack and opening huge running lanes for Ray Rice and Ricky Williams, who led a 170-yard rushing attack. The defense forced seven turnovers and had four sacks of Roethlisberger, making him look more like a rattled rookie than the quarterback that’s taken the Steelers to three Super Bowls in his first seven seasons. And Joe Flacco —

Live from M&T Bank Stadium: Ravens try to knock off Roethlisberger for first time since 2006

Luke Jones

BALTIMORE — After months of anticipation and trash talk, the wait is finally over. The Ravens will take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in what figures to be the most significant — and intense — season opener in the 16-year history of the franchise. While today’s outcome certainly doesn’t seal either team’s fate with 15 more games to play before the postseason, it will certainly have a lasting impact on who controls the AFC North in the early stages of the season in what figures to be a two-team race with Cleveland and Cincinnati lagging behind. Baltimore has not beaten Pittsburgh in a game started by Ben Roethlisberger since the 2006 season when the Ravens swept the Steelers by a combined score of 58-7 in two games. This marks the fourth time these teams have met in the regular-season opener, with Pittsburgh holding the 2-1 edge. The Ravens are 7-8 against Pittsburgh in games played at home. The Ravens are 7-8 all time in season openers but have won three consecutive and four of the past five. They’ve also reached the postseason in six of the seven years they’ve won the opener. Pittsburgh leads the all-time regular season series, 18-12, and

Ravens-Steelers Purple Haze live chat at 1:00

Luke Jones

As the Ravens kick off their 2011 season against the Pittsburgh Steelers today at 1 p.m., be sure to join us in the Purple Haze live chat as Drew Forrester, Nestor Aparicio, and I bring you live coverage from M&T Bank Stadium. It’s the newest, most interactive way to watch the game in a virtual sports bar! For breaking news about today’s game including gameday inactives and in-game injuries, subscribe to the WNST Text Service and be sure to follow us on Twitter as we provide the quickest updates and analysis as the Ravens try to beat a Ben Roethlisberger-led Steelers team for the first time since 2006.

McKinnie catching up, trimming down in preparation for Steelers

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Plenty has been written and discussed about the Ravens’ new left tackle Bryant McKinnie. His addition looks great on paper, inserting the former Pro Bowler on the left side and sliding third-year tackle Michael Oher to the right where he thrived in 2009. McKinnie has yet to play a snap in live-game action for the Ravens, making Sunday’s debut against the Pittsburgh Steelers all the more nerve-wracking for everyone involved. Getting reps in practice is well and good — even against the bullish Baltimore defense — but trying to keep the likes of LaMarr Woodley and James Harrison away from quarterback Joe Flacco is an altogether different challenge. A little over a month ago, McKinnie was dismissed by the Minnesota Vikings after nine seasons as a result of his weight ballooning to a near 400 pounds and team doctors having concerns with his cholesterol level. Since signing with the Ravens on Aug. 23 and reporting at a weight of 370 pounds, the offensive tackle had shed 10 more pounds after two weeks of practicing. “I feel pretty good,” said McKinnie, who did not play in the preseason and hasn’t taken part in a game since last

Sunday's injury report for Ravens-Steelers

Luke Jones

Only two Baltimore players appear on the official injury report for Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Linebacker Jason Phillips returned to practice on Friday after sustaining a concussion and not participating the previous day and was deemed fine, according to coach John Harbaugh after Friday’s practice. However, a new name appeared on the injury report as starting left guard Ben Grubbs did not participate and is dealing with a thigh injury. Listed as probable for Sunday’s game, the issue is not considered serious. BALTIMORE QUESTIONABLE – LB Jason Phillips (concussion) PROBABLE – G Ben Grubbs (thigh) PITTSBURGH OUT – LB Chris Carter (hamstring) DOUBTFUL – WR Jerricho Cotchery (hamstring) PROBABLE – T Marcus Gilbert (concussion)

Ravens offensive line coach Andy Moeller gets two-game suspension

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Ravens offensive line coach Andy Moeller has been suspended for the first two games of the season for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. The suspension stems from a DWI conviction handed down to Moeller in the spring. He received two years of supervised probation as a sentence. Assistant line coach Todd Washington will assume Moeller’s duties during the suspension, a move that suits head coach John Harbaugh just fine. “We knew this was coming, and we’d prepared for it,” Harbaugh said. Moeller has been arrested for alcohol-related incidents three times since Dec. 2007. He joins receiver David Reed on the so-called suspended list, as the second-year receiver must sit out the regular-season opener after violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy.

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens make final preparations for Pittsburgh

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Conducting a final workout on Friday before welcoming the Pittsburgh Steelers to M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday, the Ravens practiced in shells and shorts in typical Friday fashion. With the Ravens working on the field farthest away from the media’s viewing area during the open portion of practice, it was difficult to account for every player on the 53-man roster, but receiver Lee Evans (foot), center Matt Birk (knee), cornerback Chris Carr (hamstring), and backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor were all practicing, as they have all week in preparation for the Steelers. Linebacker Jason Phillips appeared to be dressed to practice from a long-distance vantage point after being listed as a non-participant with a concussion on Thursday’s injury report. Cornerback Lardarius Webb was taking all repetitions returning punts during the special teams period of practice and is still listed as the No. 1 punt returner on the team’s official depth chart. Speculation has persisted that rookie LaQuan Williams will be involved in the return game, but it remains to be seen. The Ravens will wear their white jerseys in the regular-season opener, forcing Pittsburgh to wear their black jerseys despite a forecast calling for a 30 percent

As always, rushing Roethlisberger the priority for Ravens on Sunday

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — There’s no real secret to beating Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger despite the Ravens not being able to do it since 2006. In parts of games, Baltimore has had success over the last three years — just not for the necessary 60 minutes. “Keep him in the pocket, get him on the ground, and play through the whistle,” linebacker Ray Lewis said. “Maybe even sometimes play after the whistle with him, because he’s that type of guy.” Easier said than done, as the Ravens painfully remember most recently in their 31-24 playoff loss last January when Roethlisberger completed a 58-yard pass to Antonio Brown on a third-and-19 play with less than two minutes to go. Former defensive coordinator Greg Mattison elected to rush three on the play as the Ravens failed to apply the necessary pressure on the Pittsburgh quarterback. It was a lesson new defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano hopefully learned while observing as the Baltimore secondary coach. The Ravens know better than anyone that the need to pressure Roethlisberger can’t be overstated. “It’s huge,” defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano said. “If you just look at history, you know. I just go back to 2008. We lost all

Phillips only Ravens player present on Thursday injury report

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Linebacker Jason Phillips was the only player missing from the Ravens’ open portion of practice and was the only Baltimore player present on Thursday’s injury report After Wednesday’s injury report included no Ravens players, the addition of Phillips is unlikely to raise too many eyebrows in concern for Sunday’s game against the Steelers. The outlook for Steelers receiver Jerricho Cotchery appears bleaker as well as he continues to battle a hamstring injury. BALTIMORE DID NOT PARTICIPATE – LB Jason Phillips (concussion) LIMITED – none PITTSBURGH DID NOT PARTICIPATE – LB Chris Carter (hamstring), WR Jerricho Cotchery LIMITED – none UPGRADED TO FULL PARTICIPATION – T Marcus Gilbert (concussion)

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens only missing Phillips on Thursday

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — A day closer to their season-opening meeting with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Ravens failed to have perfect attendance for a second straight day as linebacker Jason Phillips was missing from the open portion of practice. However, all players were dressed in helmets, shells, and shorts and working. Center Matt Birk (knee), wide receiver Lee Evans (foot), cornerback Chris Carr (hamstring), and quarterback Tyrod Taylor (left shoulder) were all practicing for the second straight day after none of them were listed on Wednesday’s official injury report. Linebacker Dannell Ellerbe wore a wrap on his left hand but did not appear to be limited during special teams drills. Lardarius Webb, Chris Carr, and Ed Reed all received work fielding punts during the special teams portion of practice, though speculation persists that rookie LaQuan Williams will factor in the punt return game on Sunday. Prior to the start of practice, several players visited with Baltimore Colts Hall of Famer Lenny Moore, including running back Ray Rice and free safety Ed Reed.

Morning Reaction 2011 NFL Predictions

Luke Jones

With the Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints kicking off the 2011 season on Thursday night, Drew Forrester and I looked into our crystal ball for our predictions on how the NFL division races will look and who will be hoisting the Vince Lombardi trophy in Indianapolis on Feb. 5, 2012. We’ve listed our records for the projected division-winning teams — without scientifically going through the schedule and picking each individual game — and an asterisk (*) denotes the teams earning wild card berths. DREW FORRESTER’S PREDICTIONS NFC East Philadelphia (11-5) New York Giants Dallas Washington NFC South New Orleans (12-4) *Atlanta *Tampa Bay Carolina NFC West St. Louis (11-5) Seattle Arizona San Francisco NFC North Green Bay (12-4) Minnesota Detroit Chicago AFC East New York Jets (12-4) *New England Miami Buffalo AFC South Houston (9-7) Tennessee Indianapolis Jacksonville AFC West San Diego (11-5) *Kansas City Denver Oakland AFC North Baltimore (11-5) Pittsburgh Cleveland Cincinnati LUKE JONES’ PREDICTIONS NFC East Philadelphia (11-5) Dallas New York Giants Washington NFC South New Orleans (13-3) *Atlanta Tampa Bay Carolina NFC West St. Louis (10-6) Arizona Seattle San Francisco NFC North Green Bay (12-4) *Detroit Chicago Minnesota AFC East New England (11-5) *New

Ravens balancing urgency with perspective in preparing for hated Steelers

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Listening to fans around Baltimore talk over the last month, you would think the 2011 season not only begins but could possibly end when the Ravens welcome the Pittsburgh Steelers to town this weekend. This Sunday marks the first meaningful game the Ravens have played since a second-half collapse that cost them their season in a 31-24 defeat in a divisional playoff game at Heinz Field last January. The frustration is still fresh for anyone emotionally invested, with the 134-day lockout causing that feeling to brood as both sides took to exchanging barbs via social media and a handful of interviews over the spring and summer. With Pittsburgh enjoying the benefit of hosting playoff games against Baltimore in two of the last three seasons, the Ravens cannot overlook the significance in holding serve at home against their biggest adversary — even if it is only Week 1. The Ravens finished tied with the Steelers at 12-4 in 2010, but succumbed to the division record tiebreaker after losing to Pittsburgh in a critical Sunday night home game in early December. “They spoiled our Super Bowl dreams for the last two out of three years,” said linebacker Terrell

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens gearing up for Steelers with full squad practicing

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — As the Ravens move closer to taking on their hated rivals from Pittsburgh to begin the season on Sunday afternoon, they appear to be getting healthier just in time for the occasion. All 53 players on the active roster were present and working during the open portion of Wednesday’s practice, including center Matt Birk (knee), wide receiver Lee Evans (foot), and cornerback Chris Carr (hamstring). All three were dressed in full pads and did not appear to be limited in the early stages of the workout. With primary kick returner David Reed suspended in the regular-season opener for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy, cornerback Lardarius Webb appeared to be the primary returner during the special teams portion of practice. Rookie receiver Torrey Smith also fielded kicks. For anyone trying to find some clarity in what the Ravens plan to do at the center position, Birk was snapping to starter Joe Flacco while newcomer Andre Gurode snapped to rookie backup Tyrod Taylor during individual drills. Visit the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault to hear from John Harbaugh, Joe Flacco, Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Ray Rice, Terrell Suggs, Andre Gurode, Lee Evans, Jarret Johnson, and Bernard Pollard prior to Wednesday’s

Two key Ravens aiming to get healthy quickly for Steelers

Luke Jones

Though the Ravens managed to survive the preseason without a catastrophic injury to potentially derail their regular season, the health of receiver Lee Evans and veteran center Matt Birk has been closely monitored as they prepare to kick off the season on Sunday. The Ravens received good news on their respective statuses on Monday as both took part in practice and hope to play against Pittsburgh. Evans tested his injured left ankle in practice for the first time since playing in the third preseason game against Washington on Aug. 25. He wore a walking boot on his foot and sat out practice on Aug. 27 and had not been present at the open portion of practices since that point. The Ravens had held Evans out of practices as a precautionary measure, but the 30-year-old receiver had progressed well and was eager to return to the practice field to get ready for Pittsburgh. Evans had 128 receiving yards during the preseason, including a touchdown catch against Washington. “Any rest you can get during the season is welcomed, so it feels good,” Evans said. “Like I said, it was good to rest for a little bit, but it’s good to be back

Practice squad set as Ravens retain eight from camp roster

Luke Jones

The Ravens have set their practice squad by reaching agreements with eight players previously on their training camp roster. Running back Damien Berry, offensive lineman Justin Boren, quarterback Hunter Cantwell, defensive back Danny Gorrer, defensive tackle Bryan Hall, fullback Ryan Mahaffey, safety Mana Silva, and linebacker Chavis Williams will comprise the eight-man developmental squad to begin the regular season. Six of the eight are rookies, with only Cantwell and Gorrer having previous experience.

Ravens reach agreement with Pro Bowl center Andre Gurode

Luke Jones

With starting center Matt Birk’s status uncertain for the start of the regular season, the Ravens have further bolstered their offensive line by reaching a one-year agreement with five-time Pro Bowl center Andre Gurode. Released by the Dallas Cowboys on Aug. 29 after failing to restructure his contract, Gurode has been selected to the Pro Bowl in each of the last five seasons. The 32-year-old spent the first nine seasons of his career in Dallas after being selected in the second round of the 2002 draft. He made 122 starts for the Cowboys at guard and center. “We just got better as a team,” said general manager Ozzie Newsome to the team’s official website. “To have a successful season, you have to have quality depth across the board. We just added great depth to the interior of our offensive line with Andre.” The 6-foot-4, 335-pound center has not missed a start in his last three seasons and was named an All-Pro in 2007 and 2009. However, Gurode underwent knee surgery in June, which allowed former Maryland center Phil Costa to receive more reps for the Cowboys during training camp, ultimately leading to Gurode’s salary-cap driven release. With Birk’s health an

After final cuts, Ravens set 53-man roster (for now)

Luke Jones

Cutting a total of 26 players and placing one on injured reserve, the Ravens have trimmed their roster to 53 players approximately three hours ahead of Saturday’s 6 p.m. deadline. The biggest surprises to make the roster were rookie defensive end Michael McAdoo and linebacker Albert McClellan, a member of the practice squad last season. After going unselected in the NFL’s supplemental draft, the Ravens signed the former North Carolina defensive end last week. The 6-foot-7, 245-pound McAdoo is considered a long-term project after being ruled ineligible for his junior season in Chapel Hill last season. Notable veteran names that were waived included linebackers Prescott Burgess and Tavares Gooden, wide receiver Marcus Smith, running back Jalen Parmele, and defensive tackle Lamar Divens. Other players who were waived included quarterback Hunter Cantwell, receivers James Hardy and Brandon Jones, running backs Damien Berry and Ryan Mahaffey, tight ends Davon Drew and Johdrick Morris, offensive linemen Jason Murphy, Andre Ramsey, Tim Barnes, and Justin Boren, defensive backs Mana Silva, Danny Gorrer, Nate Williams, Talmadge Jackson, and Josh Victorian, linebackers Josh Bynes and Chavis Williams, defensive linemen Bryan Hall and Derek Simmons, and long snapper Patrick Scales. Offensive tackle Ramon Harewood was placed on

Cutdown day live updates: Ravens trimming to 53

Luke Jones

***Stay right here for updates throughout the day as the Ravens form their 53-man roster for the start of the regular season. Follow us on Twitter and be sure to subscribe to the WNST Text Service for all updates sent directly to your mobile device.*** 3:10 p.m. — Three hours ahead of the 6 p.m. deadline, the Ravens have announced their remaining cuts, which include QB Hunter Cantwell, FB Ryan Mahaffey, C Jason Murphy, CB Talmadge Jackson, DT Bryan Hall, LS Patrick Scales, OT Andre Ramsey, S Mana Silva, LB Chavis Williams, CB Josh Victorian, LB Josh Bynes, CB Danny Gorrer, and WR James Hardy. This means the Ravens have decided to keep — for now — rookie defensive end Michael McAdoo and inebackers Jason Phillips and Albert McClellan. The roster currently has 53 players, which is a bit peculiar with David Reed’s spot not counting against the roster for Week 1. However, it’s of little consequence with the Ravens expected to sign a veteran backup for quarterback Joe Flacco. 2:11 p.m. — By my count, the Ravens have cleared 14 players from the roster, meaning there are 12 unaccounted for to get down to 54 players (David Reed’s spot

Sizing up the Ravens' final 53 before cut day

Luke Jones

With the Ravens needing to pare down from 80 players to a 53-man roster for the start of the regular season, John Harbaugh and the coaching staff will make their final decisions by 6 p.m. on Saturday. The Ravens will almost certainly add a veteran quarterback to back up Joe Flacco and wouldn’t mind adding another interior offensive lineman with Matt Birk’s status for the start of the season still up in the air. However, those moves likely won’t come until after Saturday when a number of options around the league will hit the open market. As a result, my roster projection reflects decisions based solely on players currently with the Ravens. The roster we’ll see against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept. 11 will look different — even if I nail all 53 projected spots by some act of God — than what you’ll find below. The projection also reflects Friday’s news of receiver/kick returner David Reed being suspended Week 1 for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy. Suspended players do not count against the 53-man roster, allowing the Ravens to keep another player for the regular-season opener. Therefore, the mock roster below contains a total of 54 players. QUARTERBACKS (2)

Ravens wide receiver David Reed suspended Week 1

Luke Jones

(Updated: 5:40 p.m.) With final cuts taking placing on Saturday, the Ravens have confirmed they will be without receiver/kick returner David Reed for the regular-season opener due to a one-game suspension handed down by the NFL. Reed’s suspension stems from an incident last year in which marijuana was found at his residence in Owings Mills. The issue was resolved in February without any jail time or fine being handed down, but the NFL ruled this a violation of its substance-abuse policy and will suspend Reed without pay for the first game of the season. Since suspended players do not count against the 53-man roster, the Ravens will be allowed to keep an extra player in the opener against the Steelers. The suspension will leave rookies Torrey Smith and Tandon Doss as the remaining options at the No. 3 receiver spot in Reed’s absense. The Ravens will also have to use a replacement at kick returner with Smith, Lardarius Webb, and bubble players Jalen Parmele and LaQuan Williams as viable alternatives.

Ravens take practice field for last time before final cuts

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — As the Ravens closed the book on their 3-1 preseason in Atlanta on Thursday night, many on the current 80-man roster took the field in Owings Mills on Friday afternoon for the last time. Facing a deadline to trim the team down to 53 players by 6 p.m. on Saturday, coach John Harbaugh shifts his attention to the Pittsburgh Steelers with a final look at the 27 players — or more, depending on other potential moves — who won’t be deemed good enough to take the turf at M&T Bank Stadium on Sept. 11. “You are excited to finalize your roster,” Harbaugh said. “You are excited to say this is going to be our team. This is how we’re going to move forward, but that’s going to not include some guys, and that’s the toughest thing.” Among those decisions will be a number of players with promising upside, but may prove too raw to take up a 53-man roster spot. Second-year offensive tackle Ramon Harewood is the quintessential example after being drafted in the sixth round from Morehouse in 2010. Spending last season on injured reserve, Harewood’s return to the practice field was delayed this summer

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens without Birk, Evans for Friday's practice

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — After arriving back in Baltimore early Friday morning, the Ravens returned to the practice field several hours later for a shells-and-shorts workout following their 21-7 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in the preseason finale. Center Matt Birk (knee) and receiver Lee Evans (foot) were not present for the portion of practice open to the media, as concern grows whether the two veterans will be 100 percent for the opener against Pittsburgh on Sept. 11. With Birk not practicing, Bryan Mattison was once again filling in at center as he has throughout the preseason. Quarterback Tyrod Taylor (left shoulder) and offensive tackle Ramon Harewood (undisclosed) were also absent from practice. Taylor left Thursday’s game in the first quarter after his left shoulder was driven to the Georgia Dome turf. The Ravens labeled it a contusion after initial tests, and Taylor was seen with his left arm in a sling on the sideline during the second half. Cornerback Chris Carr (hamstring) and offensive lineman Mark LeVoir (undisclosed) returned to practice after missing workouts earlier this week. Carr missed the final three preseason games after injuring his left hamstring while covering Evans during practice on Aug. 15. As for

With preseason complete, Ravens still filled with unknowns entering Steelers week

Luke Jones

Any answers we hoped to uncover on Thursday night were history when coach John Harbaugh elected to rest most of his starters on both sides of the ball in a 21-7 win over the Atlanta Falcons in the preseason finale. With the coaching staff not wanting to risk any injuries on the fast turf at the Georgia Dome, left tackle Bryant McKinnie and the new-look offensive line didn’t even receive as much as a cameo appearance against Atlanta despite suggestions otherwise. The decision means the first time we’ll get a look at McKinnie and veteran center Matt Birk in live-game action will be against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept. 11. It’s a scary proposition, but the Ravens will hope practice reps against the vaunted Baltimore defense as well as veteran moxie will be enough to prepare McKinnie, Ben Grubbs, Birk, Marshal Yanda, and Michael Oher for the likes of James Harrison, LaMarr Woodley, and the brutal Pittsburgh defense. As offensive coordinator Cam Cameron put it earlier this week, the Ravens have no other choice but to be ready in a critical battle in Week 1. The preseason finale managed to create even more doubt at the backup quarterback position after

Ravens-Falcons Purple Haze live chat at 7:30

Luke Jones

As if it weren’t difficult enough to get excited about the final preseason game, the Ravens announced they would only be playing a handful of starters tonight against the Atlanta Falcons in the Georgia Dome. Despite discussion of the reconfigured offensive line playing a series or two in the first quarter, coach John Harbaugh has elected to play it safe and not risk any injuries, meaning the starting line will see its first live-game action together against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept. 11. The only projected offensive starter playing in tonight’s game will be tight end Ed Dickson. Defensively, the Ravens have elected to deactivate Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs, Haloti Ngata, Jarret Johnson, and Cory Redding against the Falcons. Terrence Cody, Jameel McClain, Domonique Foxworth, Cary Williams, and the combination of Tom Zbikowski and Bernard Pollard — it’s still undetermined who will start at strong safety next to Reed — will be the only starters taking the turf in Atlanta. That said, a number of veteran backups and rookies will be fighting for their roster lives as the Ravens conclude the preseason and make final decisions on the 53 men who will be taking the field against Pittsburgh

Ravens-Falcons Preseason Primer: What to watch

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Purple Haze live chat beginning at 7:30 p.m. as we talk about the preseason finale and what to expect this season. For the quickest updates and analysis, follow WNST on Twitter and be sure to subscribe to the WNST Text Service.*** As the calendar turns to September, we’ve finally reached the light at the end of the preseason tunnel as the Ravens travel to Atlanta to take on the Falcons on Thursday night. Of course, interest isn’t exactly bubbling over in the final preseason game, but plenty of players will be fighting for their professional lives, whether with Baltimore or the 31 other NFL teams that will trim down their rosters to 53 on Saturday. It’s unknown how long the starters will play against the Falcons, but John Harbaugh and the coaching staff will at least give the revamped offensive line — particularly newly-signed left tackle Bryant McKinnie — a brief look in live-game action during the first quarter. The reins will then be turned over to veteran backups and rookies trying to stake their final claims as to why they belong among the 53 that will take the field against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept.

Orioles deal Gonzalez to Texas for player to be named

Luke Jones

(Updated: 10:25 p.m.) The Orioles traded relief pitcher Michael Gonzalez to the Texas Rangers in exchange for a player to be named later on Wednesday afternoon. Multiple reports are saying the Orioles will receive 26-year-old pitcher Pedro Strop from the Rangers. He was 0-1 with a 3.72 earned run average in 11 appearances with Texas this season. The often-maligned Gonzalez went 2-2 with one save and a 4.27 earned run average (46 1/3 innings) with the Orioles in 2011. The 33-year-old has not allowed a run in his last 13 appearances, a span of 12 1/3 innings. After a disastrous April in which Gonzalez’s ERA was 9.82 by month’s end, the southpaw pitched to a 3.23 clip from May 1 through his last appearance on Aug. 29, a span of 39 innings pitched. Signed to a two-year, $12 million contract to be the Orioles closer in December 2009, Gonzalez’s run in Baltimore was a tumultuous one after blowing two of his first three save opportunities to begin the 2010 season before being placed on the disabled list with a shoulder injury. Gonzalez finished 2010 with a 1-3 record, one save, and a 4.01 ERA in 24 2/3 innings. The deal

Harbaugh not revealing Ravens' plans for playing time against Atlanta

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The fourth preseason game is typically reserved for younger players and veterans squarely on the bubble, with starters making little more than a cameo appearance — if that. However, given the unprecedented nature of the 134-day lockout and the lack of a regular offseason, teams may elect to play starters more extensively. However, Ravens coach John Harbaugh wasn’t tipping his hand one way or the other in terms of his plans for the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday night. So, how long should we expect to see the Baltimore starters? “We’ll see. That’s what I think about it.” With the Ravens signing Bryant McKinnie last week and veterans Matt Birk and Marshal Yanda just returning to the practice field on Saturday, concern exists over how quickly the offensive line can gel as the Pittsburgh Steelers come to town for the season opener on Sept. 11. Harbaugh is weighing his options in balancing live-game reps for the line with keeping everyone healthy in the final preseason game. Thursday marks the last chance for rookies such as former Maryland receiver LaQuan Williams and veterans on the bubble such as linebackers Prescott Burgess and Tavares Gooden to make an impression

Orioles release 2012 schedule

Luke Jones

PRESS RELEASE, courtesy of the Orioles public relations staff The Orioles will kick off their 20th anniversary season at Oriole

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