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Ngata misses practice, Grubbs limited on Wednesday

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Ravens received potentially good news on Wednesday as left guard Ben Grubbs returned to the practice field for the first time since mid-October as he hopes to return to game action for the first time since the season opener. Grubbs practiced on a limited basis on Wednesday, but defensive tackle Haloti Ngata was noticeably absent from the workout and did not participate due to a thigh injury. Ngata appeared to get banged up in Sunday’s win over the Cardinals, but the Pro Bowl defensive lineman returned to action quickly without further incident. Despite optimism created by Grubbs returning to the practice field, there was no change to wide receiver Lee Evans’ status as the 30-year-old did not practice on Wednesday. Evans has not practiced since the week following the bye when he returned on a limited basis. Kick returner David Reed did not practice on Wednesday and was listed as having a knee injury. In addition to Grubbs, cornerback Danny Gorrer and running back Anthony Allen returned to the practice field after both players missed Sunday’s game against the Cardinals. The rookie Allen has missed the last two games with a thigh injury. The Steelers

Live from Owings Mills: Grubbs returns to practice as Ravens begin preparation for Steelers

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With the Ravens preparing to take on their hated rival for the second time this season, Wednesday brought new hope in seeing the return of a player out of action since the first Pittsburgh game. Left guard Ben Grubbs returned to practice for the first time since the week following the bye when he practiced on a limited basis but was held out against the Houston Texans. An injured right toe has sidelined the offensive lineman since playing in the season opener against the Steelers on Sept. 11. However, the news was not as promising for wide receiver Lee Evans (left ankle), who was not present for the portion of practice open to the media. The veteran wideout has not played since the Ravens’ Week 2 loss to the Titans. Joining Evans as absentees during the open portion of practice on Wednesday were linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (thigh), return specialist David Reed (undisclosed), and defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (undisclosed). Ngata appeared to get nicked up at one point during the Ravens’ win over the Cardinals on Sunday but quickly returned to action. Cornerback Danny Gorrer (thigh) and running back Anthony Allen (thigh) also returned to practice after

Wieters, Markakis grab first Gold Glove awards

Luke Jones

For the first time since 1998, the Orioles have claimed multiple Gold Glove awards as catcher Matt Wieters and right fielder Nick Markakis each became first-time recipients when Rawlings named their 2011 recipients late Tuesday night. The 25-year-old Wieters is the first Orioles catcher to claim the award after throwing out 37 percent of runners attempting to steal and being named to his first All-Star team this season. The catcher committed five errors and had one passed ball in 132 games this year. His .995 fielding percentage tied for the American League lead among catchers. Markakis earned his first Gold Glove after committing the first error-free season by an Orioles outfielder playing at least 150 games. His 14 outfield assists was fifth in the American League. Since 2006, Markakis ranks second in the majors with 72 outfield assists, with only Jeff Francoeur (84) having more. The 27-year-old outfielder is the third Orioles outfielder to receive the honor, joining Paul Blair (1967, 1969-1975) and Adam Jones (2009). Wieters and Markakis became the 14th and 15th players in franchise history to win a Gold Glove. This season marks the 17th time the Orioles have received multiple winners but the first since 1998

Pittsburgh playing coy with injured linebackers for Ravens game?

Luke Jones

Having dealt with their own barrage of injuries through the first seven games of the season, the Ravens won’t take any pity on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ health woes at the linebacker position. But they will likely be left guessing over who exactly will be on the field when they travel to Heinz Field to take on their bitter rival Sunday night for part two of the 2011 edition of the best rivalry in the NFL. The Steelers’ second-ranked defense — ranking only behind Baltimore — has been decimated by injuries to its talented group of linebackers. Four-time Pro Bowl linebacker James Harrison has missed the last four games with an orbital bone fracture in his face while inside linebacker James Farrior missed Sunday’s game against New England with a calf injury. A third starting linebacker fell during the Steelers’ impressive win over the Patriots when LaMarr Woodley sustained a hamstring injury in the third quarter of their 25-17 win over the Patriots. A Tuesday report by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said Woodley will not play against the Ravens and could possibly be out until after the Steelers’ bye on Nov. 20. However, Woodley said on his Twitter page he’s not willing

Ravens place linebacker Prescott Burgess on IR

Luke Jones

Already struggling in the special teams, the Ravens’ coverage units took another hit on Tuesday with the announcement that linebacker Prescott Burgess has been placed on injured reserve with a thigh injury. The fifth-year linebacker sustained the injury in Sunday’s 30-27 comeback win over the Arizona Cardinals. Burgess appeared in three games with Baltimore this season, recording one assisted tackle and two special teams tackles. The 6-foot-3, 253-pounder led the Ravens in special teams tackles the past two seasons. A sixth-round choice by the Ravens in 2007, Burgess was waived at the end of the preseason before being re-signed to take the place of cornerback Domonique Foxworth, who was placed on injured reserve on Sept. 28. The linebacker was waived again during the bye week in favor of defensive back Bryan McCann before being re-signed again on Oct. 18 after offensive lineman Mark LeVoir was released. The Ravens also announced changes to their practice squad, releasing safety Mana Silva and re-signing wide receiver Rodney Bradley to take his spot.

Morning Reaction Tuesday Top 7 Ravens for Week 8

Luke Jones

Below are our Tuesday Top 7 Ravens players in the 30-27 comeback victory over the Arizona Cardinals 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 To hear the full explanation for our respective picks, click right HERE. Luke Jones’ Top 7 … 7) Dennis Pitta 6) Ray Rice 5) Paul Kruger 4) Jarret Johnson 3) Joe Flacco 2) Anquan Boldin 1) Terrell Suggs Drew Forrester’s Top 7 … 7) Ray Rice 6) Billy Cundiff 5) Dennis Pitta 4) Joe Flacco 3) Paul Kruger 2) Anquan Boldin 1) Terrell Suggs SEASON TO DATE: Luke Jones: 1. Terrell Suggs (29 points) 2. Ray Rice (26 points) 3. Haloti Ngata (24 points) 4. Joe Flacco (20 points) 5. Anquan Boldin (14 points) 6. Ed Reed (8 points) 6. Ray Lewis (8 points) 8. Bernard Pollard (7 points) 8. Cary Williams (7 points) 10. David Reed (6 points) 10. Torrey Smith (6 points) 10. Terrence Cody (6 points) 13. Bryant McKinnie (5

Harbaugh open to Ravens, Flacco using more shotgun

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — To the many clamoring for Joe Flacco to take more snaps in the shotgun formation, the prolific second half of the 30-27 comeback victory over the Arizona Cardinals was significant ammunition in their favor. Not counting plays negated by penalty, the starting quarterback lined up in the shotgun 36 times in the second half while taking the snap under center just eight times as the Ravens produced 24 points and 249 yards of offense in the final 30 minutes to complete the largest comeback victory in franchise history. Flacco was particularly sharp in the comeback effort, throwing for 238 of his 336 passing yards after halftime. With the Ravens having such success in the shotgun and often times running a no-huddle attack to slow an Arizona pass rush that gave them fits in the first half, the question was posed to coach John Harbaugh whether Baltimore would use a more shotgun-heavy approach moving forward. Of course, Flacco worked extensively in the formation during his days at the University of Delaware, which created questions about the quarterback’s ability to play under center prior to the 2008 draft. Harbaugh was quick to point out the Ravens have called

Under pressure: Ravens defense swarms Cardinals in 30-27 win

Luke Jones

BALTIMORE — While most attention fell directly on the shoulders of a Baltimore offense that couldn’t get out of its own way in the first half and couldn’t be stopped in the final 30 minutes, the 30-27 comeback victory over Arizona wouldn’t have been possible without a swarming defensive effort by the Ravens to earn the greatest comeback in franchise history. After two turnovers and a special teams score essentially gift-wrapped 21 points to the Cardinals in the second quarter, the Baltimore defense buckled down after intermission, allowing a mere 56 total yards and minus-1 passing yards as Arizona quarterback Kevin Kolb had no answers for the pass rush. The Ravens finished the day with a season-high six sacks, including two from third-year linebacker Paul Kruger and one from Terrell Suggs, who also led the team with 13 tackles. It continued an early-season trend of tremendous pressure and stellar defense in support of a maddeningly-inconsistent Ravens offense. Without it, the Ravens’ 24-point explosion in the second half may have been all for naught. Five players collected sacks, giving the Ravens 25 through the first seven games of the season under new, aggressive defense coordinator Chuck Pagano. It’s a stark contrast

Ravens-Cardinals inactives and pre-game notes

Luke Jones

BALTIMORE — As if an earthquake and hurricane in the same week wasn’t enough, a touch of snow in late October explains how strange of a start it’s been to the 2011 season in Baltimore. While it may not explain the inexplicable losses to Tennessee and Jacksonville, the Ravens will try to bring some normalcy back into the picture against the 1-5 Arizona Cardinals Sunday afternoon at M&T Bank Stadium. Having lost five in a row after a season-opening win over Carolina, the Cardinals face the daunting task of coming east to take on an angry Ravens team with something to prove on the offensive side of the football. Sunday marks the fifth all-time meeting between the teams, with the Ravens holding a 3-1 advantage in the series. The Cardinals’ only win over Baltimore came at Memorial Stadium in 1997. The Ravens have won 13 of their last 14 games at M&T Bank Stadium and have not lost consecutive games since October 2009 when they dropped three straight to New England, Cincinnati, and Minnesota. With cornerback Danny Gorrer injuring his thigh during Thursday’s practice, the Ravens will depend on rookie Jimmy Smith and returning veteran Chris Carr to handle duties

Ravens rule out Evans, Grubbs again for Cardinals

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Trying to find their way offensively as the struggling Arizona Cardinals visit M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday, the Ravens will once again be without starting wide receiver Lee Evans and left guard Ben Grubbs. Grubbs has been sidelined since playing in the season-opening win against Pittsburgh while Evans hasn’t played since the Ravens’ loss in Tennessee. Both players attempted to practice in post-bye week leading up to the Oct. 16 game against Houston, but neither has practice since their respective injuries did not respond well to increased activity. Linebacker Dannell Ellerbe and running back Anthony Allen were also ruled out for the second straight week as they both recover from thigh ailments. Despite giving Ravens fans a mild scare by sitting out Thursday’s practice and being a limited participant on Friday, safety Ed Reed was listed as probable on the final injury report of the week. Cornerback Chris Carr and safety Tom Zbikowski are also probable to make their returns to the field. Coach John Harbaugh confirmed Zbikowski had finally been cleared for contact after suffering from symptoms related to a concussion sustained against the New York Jets on Oct. 2. For Arizona, safety Kerry Rhodes

Ravens looking to turn page against struggling Cardinals

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Contrary to popular belief, the Ravens aren’t wallowing in misery following a nightmarish performance in Jacksonville with fallout that’s lingered deep into the week on internet message boards and talk radio. While the cliches about moving on and putting the loss behind them have been tossed around like cornhole bags flying through the Ravens locker room, Monday’s loss won’t officially be put behind them until they take the turf at M&T Bank Stadium against the struggling Arizona Cardinals. For a Ravens offense that needed nearly 40 minutes to collect its first first down of the night in Jacksonville, Arizona’s 26th-ranked defense is the right prescription to begin feeling good about itself again. “To be honest, it’s tough not to think about [a loss] a little bit all week until you go out there and beat the next opponent,” quarterback Joe Flacco said. “It’s always in the back of your mind a little bit. But, I think good teams put it past them and do the best they can to go out there and forget about it very quickly.” The Ravens have done a good job of that over the last two seasons, having won nine straight

Live from Owings Mills: Reed expected to play Sunday

Luke Jones

(Updated: 1:50 p.m.) OWINGS MILLS, Md. — As the Ravens practiced for the final time in preparation for the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, safety Ed Reed was back on the field. His level of activity was up for debate, however, during a very brief period of practice that was open to the media. Reed did not appear to have a helmet, but he was going through the walk-through portion of practice, but he was spotted inside the building during the closing moments of practice Friday afternoon. Coach John Harbaugh confirmed Reed’s availability against the Cardinals following Friday’s practice. “Yeah, he’ll be able to play.” Reed did not participate during Thursday’s practice and was listed with a neck injury, which likely stems from the shoulder burner he sustained late in the fourth quarter against Jacksonville. The All-Pro safety practiced fully on Wednesday. There were no changes for receiver Lee Evans (ankle), guard Ben Grubbs (toe), linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (hamstring), and running back Anthony Allen (thigh), who were all missing from the practice field for the third straight day this week. None of the four are expected to play on Sunday and will likely be ruled out when the final injury report

Morning Reaction Picks and Comment – Week 8

Luke Jones

Here are this weekend’s picks as Drew Forrester and Luke Jones will pick every NFL game as well as local college football contests. As a special treat, we will pick our respective high schools’ games. Drew Forrester is 69-34 after finishing 9-4 last week while Luke Jones is 69-34 after an 8-5 record in Week 7. Official standings are only kept based on the NFL picks. To hear our full explanation for each pick, listen HERE. Cardinals at Ravens: Baltimore 29-10 (Drew), Baltimore 24-13 (Luke) Colts at Titans: Tennessee 24-17 (Drew), Tennessee 20-13 (Luke) Jaguars at Texans: Houston 27-10 (Drew), Houston 23-9 (Luke) Vikings at Panthers: Minnesota 23-20 (Drew), Carolina 24-17 (Luke) Saints at Rams: New Orleans 31-16 (Drew), New Orleans 34-10 (Luke) Dolphins at Giants: New York 24-7 (Drew), New York 27-12 (Luke) Redskins at Bills (Toronto): Buffalo 24-3 (Drew), Buffalo 27-14 (Luke) Lions at Broncos: Detroit 21-19 (Drew), Detroit 20-17 (Luke) Patriots at Pittsburgh: New England 27-23 (Drew), New England 30-24 (Luke) Browns at 49ers: San Francisco 24-20 (Drew), San Francisco 21-13 (Luke) Bengals at Seahawks: Seattle 24-21 (Drew), Cincinnati 17-10 (Luke) Cowboys at Eagles: Philadelphia 31-13 (Drew), Philadelphia 27-21 (Luke) Chargers at Chiefs: San Diego 27-16 (Drew),

Reed shows up on Ravens' Thursday injury report

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — A day after safety Ed Reed and the Ravens thought they were in the clear following his fourth-quarter collision that caused a “burner” in his shoulder, the outlook didn’t look as promising for the All Pro as he missed practice on Thursday. Reed was listed as having a neck injury, which is likely related to the play in which he collided with defensive tackle Terrence Cody. The free safety left the game but returned soon after, saying after the game that he was OK. Despite Reed missing practicing, he is still expected to play against the Arizona Cardinals and spoke to reporters prior to the team’s workout on Thursday. Cornerback Danny Gorrer (thigh) was a limited participant after being nicked up during the special teams portion of practice viewed by the media. The defensive back was stretched out on the field for several minutes before he walked inside gingerly with a member of the training staff. It’s unknown whether Gorrer returned to practice. Cornerback Chris Carr was upgraded to a full participant on Thursday and is very likely to make his return to the field on Sunday after suffering a setback in the week leading up

Cameron provides few answers in shadow of Jacksonville debacle

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Facing the media less than 72 hours following one of the Ravens’ biggest offensive debacles in team history couldn’t have been an easy task for offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. The long-time NFL coach stood tall before the press in Owings Mills, answering every question without bristling or firing back with sarcasm. His overall message of the offense needing to move past Monday’s debacle and to turn its attention toward the Arizona Cardinals was the right one, if not totally predictable. However, when asked to address specific issues related to the Baltimore offense, Cameron didn’t say very much of substance at all. His answers were unimpressive, doing little to inspire confidence that things are turning in the right direction. You can only hear that it comes down to execution so many times before it begins falling on deaf ears, though fully acknowledging its significant part in the overall struggles of the offense. When asked about quarterback Joe Flacco’s comments from a day earlier that suggested the two-minute offense would function more quickly if he were calling the plays instead of waiting for Cameron to relay them in, the offensive coordinator didn’t disagree. However, his explanation only clouded

Live from Owings Mills: Grubbs, Evans again appearing unlikely to play

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Another day of preparation for the Arizona Cardinals brought similar results in terms of who wasn’t on the practice field Thursday. The Ravens were without receiver Lee Evans (left ankle), guard Ben Grubbs (right toe), running back Anthony Allen (thigh), and linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (thigh) for the second straight day this week. Barring a dramatic change on Friday, none are expected to play on Sunday. Evans said prior to practice that his left ankle is improving, but the 30-year-old wideout would not specify a timetable for his return to action in what amounted to anything but a ringing endorsement for his status against the Cardinals on Sunday. A possible new addition to the injury report was safety Ed Reed (shoulder), who was not identified during the open portion of practice as the Ravens worked on the field farthest away from the media viewing area. Reed practiced fully on Wednesday despite suffering a “burner” in a fourth-quarter collision with defensive tackle Terrence Cody on Monday night. Two players appeared to get nicked up during the open portion of practice on Thursday in a scene that more closely resembled training camp. Linebacker Prescott Burgess left the field for

Rice, Suggs moving past Monday night controversy

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With the Ravens returning to the practice field to begin preparations for the Arizona Cardinals on Wednesday, many were interested to learn if there would be any fallout from an unthinkable 12-7 loss in Jacksonville on Monday night. Running back Ray Rice received only eight carries and 13 touches as the Ravens were held to just 146 total yards and an embarrassing 16 in the first half. Linebacker Terrell Suggs sparked controversy following the game for questioning offensive coordinator Cam Cameron for not getting the ball in the star running back’s hands more often. Two days later, Rice made it clear he always wants the ball in order to help the offense, but expressed his desire to move past the disappointing loss. “I definitely expect to be more involved,” Rice said. “My involvement with this offense hasn’t changed since the beginning of the season. I don’t want Cam and them to feel like they’ve got to force me the ball. I’m not that kind of guy. My carries come when the whole offense has success. I look forward to having that success.” Suggs has drawn criticism for publicly questioning the coaching staff, but coach John Harbaugh

Ravens' Wednesday injury report looking lighter

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — After weeks of injury reports with a laundry list of players, the Ravens appear to slowly be getting healthier as they returned to the practice field on Wednesday in preparation for the Arizona Cardinals. Safety Tom Zbikowski has not been cleared for contact, but his concussion-related symptoms have subsided and he was listed as a full participant in Wednesday’s shells-and-shorts practice. The strong safety was participating on his regular special teams units during the open portion of practice, a good indication the team expects him to be cleared to play against Arizona. Not appearing on the injury report for the first time since early September was cornerback Jimmy Smith. He practiced without limitation on Wednesday after coach John Harbaugh said the rookie was dealing with some soreness in the second half of Monday’s game, his first action since being injured in Week 1. Safety Ed Reed and defensive tackle Terrence Cody were not listed on the injury report, eliminating any lingering concern regarding each player after a fourth-quarter collision in Monday night’s game. There was no change, however, for starting wide receiver Lee Evans and starting left guard Ben Grubbs, who did not practice on Wednesday.

Live from Owings Mills: Reed, Cody practicing after Monday night collision

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Perhaps an even scarier scene than the Ravens’ horrific performance in a 12-7 loss on Monday was the fourth-quarter collision that left All-Pro safety Ed Reed and defensive tackle Terrence Cody lying on the ground in pain. However, the two were back on the practice field Wednesday afternoon, confirming coach John Harbaugh’s comments suggesting little concern for either player’s shoulder injury. Reed returned to the game after the collision after suffering a “burner” in the opposite shoulder of the chronic nerve impingement the safety has dealt with since the end of the 2007 season. Cornerback Jimmy Smith was also back on the practice field after Harbaugh said the rookie did not take part in any defensive snaps due to soreness in the left ankle that sidelined him for six weeks. The first-round pick had not played since sustaining a high ankle sprain covering a kickoff early in the season opener. Safety Tom Zbikowski (concussion) and cornerback Chris Carr (hamstring) were also taking part in the open portion of practice on Wednesday after both were inactive against the Jaguars. Zbikowski appeared to be more active after practicing on a limited basis last week, a possible indication that

Morning Reaction Tuesday Top 7 Ravens for Week 7

Luke Jones

Below are our (day-late) Tuesday Top 7 Ravens players in the shocking 12-7 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday night. 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 To hear the full explanation for our respective picks, click right HERE. Luke Jones’ Top 7 … 7) Haloti Ngata 6) Ray Lewis 5) Jameel McClain 4) Sam Koch 3) Cary Williams 2) Terrell Suggs 1) Bernard Pollard Drew Forrester’s Top 7 … 7) Dennis Pitta 6) Ed Reed 5) Terrell Suggs 4) Jameel McClain 3) Bernard Pollard 2) Sam Koch 1) Ray Lewis SEASON TO DATE: Luke Jones: 1. Ray Rice (24 points) 2. Haloti Ngata (24 points) 3. Terrell Suggs (22 points) 4. Joe Flacco (15 points) 5. Ed Reed (8 points) 5. Anquan Boldin (8 points) 5. Ray Lewis (8 points) 8. Bernard Pollard (7 points) 8. Cary Williams (7 points) 10. David Reed (6 points) 10. Torrey Smith (6 points) 10. Terrence Cody (6 points) 13. Bryant

Harbaugh making no excuses for Ravens' offensive woes

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Less than 24 hours after the Ravens turned in one of their worst offensive performances in franchise history, coach John Harbaugh would not sugarcoat the fallout from a 12-7 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Baltimore mustered only 146 total yards and failed to register a first down in the first forty minutes of the game. It was even worse in the first half as the Ravens produced just 16 yards of offense in 25 plays, conjuring nightmares from their darkest offensive days of the 16-year history of the team. “No excuses,” Harbaugh said. “[It] has to be a lot better. Not even close to the way we’re capable of performing on offense. Everybody realizes that. We’ve all got to do a better job, starting with me. I’ve got to do a better job making some decisions, and we’ve all got to do a better job of coaching, playing, executing, all those different things.” Predictably, Cam Cameron has received a large amount of the criticism from fans on local talk radio and internet message boards after the Ravens were nearly shut out for the first time since 2002. The offensive coordinator has come under fire over the

Ravens reach uncharted territory under Harbaugh in humiliating Monday night defeat

Luke Jones

Owner Steve Bisciotti had previously expressed his displeasure over his team not playing a Monday night home again in the four years John Harbaugh has coached the Baltimore Ravens. After a humiliating debacle in Jacksonville, however, Bisciotti might be asking that his team be left off the Monday night slate altogether. The 12-7 loss to the Jaguars doesn’t top the Ravens’ embarrassing 38-7 meltdown in Pittsburgh on a Monday night in 2007, but at least that defeat came against an eventual playoff team. For as much credit as we should give Jacksonville’s defense in holding the Ravens to just seven points and 146 yards of offense, the Jaguars were 1-5 for a reason, entering Week 7 with the 32nd-ranked offense in the NFL. Though it’s just one loss in the grand scheme of a 16-game schedule, this offensive display is the type of performance that causes you to question who you are as a football team. These types of losses simply haven’t taken place in the Harbaugh era, as the Ravens entered Monday night with a 19-2 record against sub-.500 teams — the two losses coming against 0-1 squads — over the last four seasons. And it was the Ravens’

Ravens-Jaguars: Inactives and pre-game notes

Luke Jones

Renewing acquaintances with the franchise that was formerly the bane of their existence, the Ravens travel to Jacksonville to take on the 1-5 Jaguars and to try to retain their hold of the AFC North through the first seven weeks of the 2011 season. Jacksonville dominated the Ravens in the infancy of the Baltimore franchise, winning the first eight meetings before a 39-36 victory in Sept. 2000 ended the Jaguars’ run of supremacy and propelled the Ravens toward their first Super Bowl championship. The last-second victory sparked the Ravens’ current run of seven victories in eight tries with the games between the two more sporadic after divisional realignment in 2002. With tonight’s game appearing to be a mismatch due to Jacksonville having, statistically-speaking, the worst offense in the NFL and the 32nd-ranked passing attack, the Ravens will be hell-bent on slowing down Maurice Jones-Drew and the Jaguars’ rushing attack. Possessing the league’s third-ranked run defense, Baltimore appears equipped to handle it. The Ravens are 7-8 all-time on Monday Night Football and will look to improve to 4-2 in Monday night games played in the John Harbaugh era. All six of those Monday affairs, however, have been played on the road.

Ravens injury report: Evans, Grubbs out again; J. Smith probable against Jacksonville

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Ravens released their final injury report of the week on Saturday with the expected news that wide receiver Lee Evans and guard Ben Grubbs would be out again after not practicing all week in preparation for the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday night. However, rookie cornerback Jimmy Smith is probable to play after missing the last four games with a high ankle sprain sustained early in the Ravens’ season-opening win over Pittsburgh on Sept. 11. Smith practiced fully for the second straight day on Saturday and appears more likely to play than fellow cornerback Chris Carr, who is listed as questionable after practicing on a limited basis all week. “I feel good,” Smith said before the injury report was released. “I don’t know if I’m going to be able to play this game, but I feel good. I mean, I’m optimistic like I said before, [but] I really don’t know what the coach is going to do with it.” Many have speculated whether the Ravens should play Smith against the Jaguars, who are ranked last in the league in passing offense, or hold him out to get another week of practice under his belt before returning

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens make final preparations for Jacksonville

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With the Ravens traveling to Jacksonville to meet the Jaguars on Monday night, they were back on the field Saturday morning with the injury picture becoming clearer. Once again, wide receiver Lee Evans (left ankle) and Ben Grubbs (right toe) were missing from the field as the Ravens worked indoors for their final practice of the week. Neither player has worked this week nor participated in the team’s morning walk-throughs, making it an almost certainty that both will be unavailable against Jacksonville. Safety Tom Zbikowski (concussion) was on the field and appeared to be practicing on a very limited basis during the portion open to the media. He has not been cleared for contact and did not participate in Friday’s practice after being a limited participant on Thursday. Cornerback Chris Carr (left thigh) looked to be working on a limited basis for the third straight day, which might be an indication that the Ravens intend to hold out the veteran defensive back. Carr has dealt with the same hamstring injury for over two months. Linebacker Jarret Johnson (back) and cornerback Jimmy Smith (left ankle) were also practicing after participating fully on Friday. It will be interesting

Ravens' rookie receivers trying to grow on the fly

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The cliches and jargon has been tossed around since the Ravens began training camp after releasing veterans Derrick Mason and Todd Heap in late July. The passing game will be a work in progress, but the talent is there, they said. The Ravens acquired veteran Lee Evans halfway through the preseason to provide a vertical threat and add experience to a very young group of receivers led by veteran Anquan Boldin. Evans, however, has been stricken with a left ankle injury since the third preseason game and hasn’t played since Week 2. In his absence, Baltimore’s rookie receivers have collected just 11 receptions in five games, good for only 40.4 percent of quarterback Joe Flacco’s 89 completions this season. Ravens wideouts accounted for 50.9 percent of Flacco’s completions last year when Mason, Boldin, and T.J. Houshmandzadeh occupied the top three spots on the depth chart. Despite the light production from the rookie group of Torrey Smith, LaQuan Williams, and Tandon Doss, the coaching staff still claims they’re seeing development through the first five regular-season games, even if it hasn’t translated on the field. “Just tremendous growth,” offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said. “Again, we get to see

Jimmy Smith a full participant on Ravens' Friday injury report

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The likelihood of Ravens cornerback Jimmy Smith returning to action on Monday continues to grow after the rookie was listed as a full participant on Friday’s injury report. Linebacker Jarret Johnson was also a full participant after missing Thursday’s practice with a back ailment. However, the news wasn’t all good as safety Tom Zbikowski did not practice as he continues to deal with concussion-like symptoms, joining receiver Lee Evans and guard Ben Grubbs as non-participants on Friday. Former Ravens safety Dawan Landry appeared on Jacksonville’s injury report for the first time on Friday and is dealing with a thigh injury. BALTIMORE OUT – LB Dannell Ellerbe (thigh), RB Anthony Allen (thigh) DID NOT PARTICIPATE – G Ben Grubbs (toe), WR Lee Evans (ankle), S Tom Zbikowski (head) LIMITED – CB Chris Carr (thigh) FULL PARTICIPATION – CB Jimmy Smith (ankle), LB Jarret Johnson (back) JACKSONVILLE DID NOT PARTICIPATE – T Eben Britton (back), S Courtney Greene (hamsting) LIMITED – G Jason Spitz (quad), S Dawan Landry (thigh) FULL PARTICIPATION – DT Tyson Alualu (knee), CB Derek Cox (groin), RB Greg Jones (non-injury related), RB Maurice Jones-Drew (non-injury related), DE Aaron Kampman (non-injury related), CB Rashean Mathis

Live from Owings Mills: Zbikowski joins Evans, Grubbs as absentees on Friday

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Offensive starters Lee Evans and Ben Grubbs were missing from the practice field for the second straight day on Friday, making it very unlikely either will return to action against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday night. In fact, neither was even present for the Ravens’ morning walk-through, an indication the team is not even planning for the possibility of Evans or Grubbs to return to the lineup. Grubbs has not played since Week 1 after suffering a right toe injury while Evans has been sidelined since the Week 2 loss in Tennessee with a left ankle injury. Both players returned to the practice field early last week before having setbacks. Safety Tom Zbikowski joined Evans and Grubbs as a non-participant after he worked on a limited basis on Thursday. The four-year veteran has still not been cleared for contact since sustaining a concussion against the New York Jets on Oct. 2. Cornerbacks Jimmy Smith and Chris Carr were practicing for the second consecutive day after working on a limited basis on Thursday. While it’s still a mystery whether either plays against Jacksonville, the Ravens appear to be getting healthier in the secondary than they’ve been since

Pagano says rookie CB Smith "starting over" after injury layoff

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The return of cornerback Jimmy Smith to the practice field on Thursday was a welcome sight for the Ravens after selecting the rookie with the 27th overall pick in April’s draft. However, those expecting Smith to step right into the lineup and replace Lardarius Webb or Cary Williams as one of the starting cornerbacks might be setting unrealistic expectations. After injuring his left ankle early in the first quarter against Pittsburgh in the regular-season opener on Sept. 11, the progress Smith had made during the preseason in adjusting to the speed of the game has been stunted after a five-week layoff. Smith appeared on his way to earning a starting position in the secondary early in the season before he was injured covering a kickoff in the first quarter against the Steelers. “It’ll be tough again,” defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano. “It’s like starting all over again with him. Throw him out there and see where he’s at and see how he continues to progress throughout the weekend and see Monday night where he’s at. He’ll be OK. He’ll do a good job.” Smith practiced on a limited basis on Thursday, and conventional wisdom says the Ravens

Morning Reaction Picks and Comment – Week 7

Luke Jones

Here are this weekend’s picks as Drew Forrester and Luke Jones will pick every NFL game as well as local college football contests. As a special treat, we will pick our respective high schools’ games. Drew Forrester is 60-30 after finishing 9-4 last week while Luke Jones is 61-29 after a 10-3 record in Week 6. Official standings are only kept based on the NFL picks. Ravens at Jaguars: Baltimore 30-10 (Drew), Baltimore 24-10 (Luke) Seahawks at Browns: Cleveland 24-21 (Drew), Cleveland 21-17 (Luke) Falcons at Lions: Detroit 28-17 (Drew), Atlanta 31-27 (Luke) Texans at Titans: Tennessee 24-20 (Drew), Tennessee 27-20 (Luke) Broncos at Dolphins: Denver 17-16 (Drew), Denver 13-10 (Luke) Chargers at Jets: San Diego 29-23 (Drew), New York 24-20 (Luke) Bears at Buccaneers: Chicago 20-17 (Drew), Tampa Bay 21-14 (Luke) Redskins at Panthers: Carolina 24-23 (Drew), Washington 21-20 (Luke) Chiefs at Raiders: Kansas City 23-20 OT (Drew), Oakland 21-14 (Luke) Steelers at Cardinals: Pittsburgh 27-23 (Drew), Pittsburgh 17-13 (Luke) Rams at Cowboys: Dallas 34-20 (Drew), Dallas 27-16 (Luke) Packers at Vikings: Green Bay 33-21 (Drew), Green Bay 31-13 (Luke) Colts at Saints: New Orleans 34-17 (Drew), New Orleans 31-14 (Luke) Maryland at Florida State: Seminoles 34-27 (Drew), Seminoles

Ravens rule out Ellerbe, Allen on Thursday's injury report

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — On the same day cornerbacks Jimmy Smith and Chris Carr returned to the practice field after long layoffs, the Ravens have already ruled out two others for their Monday night game in Jacksonville. Linebacker Dannell Ellerbe and running back Anthony Allen both have thigh injuries and were declared out on Thursday after both were listed as probable on last week’s injury report against the Texans. Ellerbe injured his opposite leg against Houston while it is unknown what exactly happened to Allen, as the the Ravens did not report any new injuries following Sunday’s game. Wide receiver Lee Evans and left guard Ben Grubbs did not participate in Thursday’s practice, and it appears more likely that each player will be missing from action again. Grubbs has missed four straight games while Evans has not played since Week 2 against the Tennessee Titans. Linebacker Jarret Johnson (back) did not practice on Thursday, but the injury is not expected to be serious as the veteran was present on the field during the workout and appeared to be moving around without much limitation. Jacksonville saw two players miss practice on Thursday, offensive lineman Eben Britton and reserve safety Courtney Greene,

Small stature, giant impact: Ravens' Rice, Jaguars' Jones-Drew drive respective offenses

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The two shortest players on the field at EverBank Field in Jacksonville will have the biggest impact when the Ravens face the Jacksonville Jaguars in a primetime meeting on Monday night. It’s the same story every week for the 5-foot-8 Ray Rice and Jacksonville’s 5-foot-7 Maurice Jones-Drew as they’re each the most dynamic player on their respective offenses. Rice is responsible for 38.1 percent of Baltimore’s offensive production while Jones-Drew accounts for 41.4 percent of Jacksonville’s total yardage. Both will be opposed by defenses familiar with going against a small-statured back every day in practice, but Jones-Drew will deal with the third-ranked rush defense while the 1-5 Jaguars only offer the 19th-best unit when it comes to stopping the run. “They are facing our defense — a great defense,” Rice said. “We get to face them. Regardless of their record, they have a great defense, we all know. You sort of have a little battle — myself vs. Jones-Drew. Let’s see who comes out as the better running back that day. It’s just a nice game, nice Monday Night Football game. It doesn’t matter what anybody’s record is, [on] Monday Night Football, a lot of great

Live from Owings Mills: J. Smith, Carr return to practice

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — For the first time since injuring his left ankle on kickoff coverage early in the season opener against Pittsburgh, rookie cornerback Jimmy Smith returned to the practice field on Thursday in what amounts to a very good sign for the Ravens secondary. Moving around quickly and hitting a blocking sled without any visible limitation, Baltimore’s first-round draft pick appears close to returning to action after suffering a high ankle sprain against the Steelers and missing the last four games. While it’s far from a sure thing that Smith would return to action this Monday night against Jacksonville, the talented 6-foot-2 cornerback moving around so well on the practice field is a welcome sign, especially with a rematch with the Steelers in Pittsburgh only two weeks away. Smith was joined by fellow cornerback Chris Carr in returning to the practice field after the veteran has missed the last two games with the same injured left hamstring that’s limited him since the middle of August. Carr had returned to action against the St. Louis Rams before experiencing a setback in a practice leading up to the game against the Jets and has been out ever since. Tom Zbikowski

Rookie quarterback Gabbert in Ravens' defensive crosshairs

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Not only will Jacksonville quarterback Blaine Gabbert find himself in the national spotlight of Monday night for the first time, but the vaunted Ravens defense will be staring at him across the line of scrimmage. It’s the scariest of propositions for a rookie quarterback, comparable to being thrown into the lion’s den in ancient times. And while Ravens defensive players weren’t exactly giving away bulletin board material on Wednesday, they have to be licking their chops going against Gabbert and the 32nd-ranked passing offense in the NFL. The Jaguars have scored just 72 points in six games this season, losing five straight after a season-opening win over Tennessee in which current backup Luke McCown received the start. Gabbert has started the Jaguars’ last four games, throwing four touchdowns and two interceptions while completing only 48.8 percent of his passes after Jacksonville selected the former Missouri quarterback with the 10th overall pick in April’s draft. However, the Ravens say they won’t deviate from their usual game plan just because a rookie is under center. “It’s not going to be any different for us [in terms of] preparation week-to-week,” safety Ed Reed said. “Yes, there can be some

Morning Reaction Tuesday Top 7 Ravens for Week 6

Luke Jones

Below are our Top 7 Ravens players in the 29-14 victory over the Houston Texans 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 To hear the full explanation for our respective picks, click right HERE. Luke Jones’ Top 7 … 7) Terrence Cody 6) Billy Cundiff 5) Ray Lewis 4) Joe Flacco 3) Ray Rice 2) Haloti Ngata 1) Anquan Boldin Drew Forrester’s Top 7 … 7) Bernard Pollard 6) Haloti Ngata 5) Billy Cundiff 4) Joe Flacco 3) Ray Lewis 2) Anquan Boldin 1) Ray Rice SEASON TO DATE: Luke Jones: 1. Ray Rice (24 points) 2. Haloti Ngata (23 points) 3. Terrell Suggs (16 points) 4. Joe Flacco (15 points) 5. Ed Reed (8 points) 5. Anquan Boldin (8 points) 7. David Reed (6 points) 7. Torrey Smith (6 points) 7.Terrence Cody (6 points) 7. Ray Lewis (6 points) 11. Bryant McKinnie (5 points) 11. Lardarius Webb (5 points) 11. Billy Cundiff (5 points) 13. Cory

Harbaugh sidestepping brother's controversy, Ravens' Monday night snubs

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — In the aftermath of the Ravens’ 29-14 win over Houston on Sunday evening, coach John Harbaugh was asked whether he had heard about the altercation involving his younger brother following the 49ers’ big road win over Jim Schwartz and the Detroit Lions earlier in the day. Harbaugh only spoke in general terms on Sunday since the incident occurred as Baltimore’s 4:05 game with Houston was getting underway. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzgLzVxFdQc[/youtube] A day later, the Ravens coach was asked whether he had spoken to Jim Harbaugh about the incident to get his view of what transpired. Predictably, Harbaugh would not reveal specific details of what he talked about with his brother but gave a clear indication who he was supporting — to no one’s surprise. “I think I know who was right, but whoever was right or wrong, I know whose side I’m on,” said Harbaugh, drawing laughs from the media. “I’m definitely taking sides — the same side I’ve always taken.” The younger Harbaugh has been criticized for the handshake and slap on the back he offered Schwartz following San Francisco’s impressive 25-19 win. Schwartz took issue with Harbaugh’s decorum in celebrating the Week 6 victory as the

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