The most impressive part of Smith's two starts last season was he didn't blink. His composure in the huddle immediately drew praise from the veterans.
Size and athleticism
Smith has repeatedly heard that he doesn't have prototypical NFL size (6 feet) for a quarterback. That can be offset by Smith's ability to move out of the pocket.
Leadership
Smith has the most confidence of any Ravens quarterback, perhaps too much at times. Still, the veterans seem to respond to his cocky demeanor.
Overall
Smith has a solid chance to be the Ravens' starter this season, but he seems destined to be the team's long-term answer at backup quarterback.
KYLE BOLLER
Just like he did against New England last season, Boller can make all the throws. He just can't do it on a consistent basis.
Boller can launch passes as far as any quarterback in the NFL. Getting them there on target is another story.
Mistakes have marred Boller's career. In 53 games, he has 63 turnovers (44 interceptions and 19 fumbles lost).
Boller has everything teams want in a quarterback. He has prototypical size (6-3) and athleticism.
Teammates admire the toughness of Boller, who has taken some nasty hits over his career. But Boller's questionable decision-making has soured some in the locker room.
This is likely Boller's final season with the Ravens. But he'll land somewhere because he has proven to be a capable backup.
JOE FLACCO
Whether it's nerves or inexperience, Flacco has the tendency to put too much zip on his throws. But the Ravens are confident that he'll become more accurate over time.
His high-arcing throws were the highlights of the offseason minicamps. The passes were usually on target, too.
Flacco seems to have a strong mind-set for a rookie and shouldn't get rattled easily. Even when he speaks, one can sense a calmness about him.
Everyone knows that Flacco is 6-6, but he impressed the coaching staff with his ability to move around. He is smoother than most anticipated.
This is tough to gauge at this point. But typically, teams rally around successful quarterbacks.
Flacco is the franchise quarterback. Even if he isn't the starter for the season opener, he'll likely get on the field at some point this season.
jamison.hensley@baltsun.com
