October 09, 2012
With the exception of Lardarius Webb, I just think the Ravens' cornerbacks aren't very physical. They don't get their hands on receivers and hold them up at the line of scrimmage. They just turn and run with them and then lose track of the ball. The Chiefs didn't throw a lot, but I thought both Cary Williams and Jimmy Smith were solid. Against K.C., you could play soft because the Chiefs weren't going to beat you down the field.
As for Ed Reed, Ed is Ed. He makes big plays in big games and that's basically why general manager Ozzie Newsome keeps him around. When he is on his game, Reed plays the best center field of any safety in the league, but he isn't going to dazzle you by blowing up a lot of receivers or running backs.
David A. Randall: The Ravens are facing a very difficult dilemma -- Ray Lewis. It is apparent that the weight-loss strategy is not working. Who will be the one to tell Ray that he’s done? John, Ozzie, Ray himself, or another teammate?
Lewis will probably play this season and next unless the Ravens win a Super Bowl this year. As long as the Ravens continue to win, they will allow him to play until his contract expires. Because of his passion for the game and him being the face of the organization for so long, he is untouchable. No one really wants to fight that fight over at The Castle and tell him to move on or retire.
It's a story we see a lot in sports where a player hangs on too long. It's kind of sad, but we all want a happy ending. I think the Ravens would like to get to the postseason and then hopefully veterans like Reed and Lewis can make enough plays to get them into the Super Bowl.
But the final call on when he decides to leave will be Lewis' decision. I have said and written that this will never fully be John Harbaugh's team until Ray Lewis leaves. I still believe that, and it is clearly evident.
Coach: Ravens receivers seem to be struggling against press coverage. What can be done on their part and on Cam Cameron’s end?
Run more rubs, crossing patterns and use more motion, especially with Torrey Smith. Of course, to run crossing patterns, requires better pass protection for the offensive line. When teams press up, receivers have to win one-on-one matchups.
Marc Kelly: Mr. Preston, if you know so much about NFL football, why are you not a coach?
Hey Markie, do us adults a favor. Send me your address, and I'll send you a coloring book and a box of crayons during the Q&A.
