It’s not time to start printing playoff tickets just yet but if there’s any message that the Ravens sent to not only the Houston Texans but the NFL in general yesterday, it’s that this team is suddenly “for real.”

Any team that can go on the road and paste a team 41-13 in November to go to 6-3 must be taken seriously as a January threat.

Sure, it’s easy to say this: “Who have the Ravens beaten this year that matters?”

The answer: Cleveland twice, Oakland, Cincinnati, Miami and now Houston – combined record of 13-29.

Fair enough.

But the next seven weeks will work all of that out.

Are the Ravens a mediocre team that has bested a homely lot or an emerging playoff team waiting to break out and start beating some quality opponents?

There is one thing we know for sure.

With a date at the Meadowlands pending – and yes, we still have a handful of seats left on our “Miller Lite Purple Bus” to the swamps of Jersey this Sunday – the Ravens now control their own destiny in this chase for playoff football and a potential AFC North division crown.

It’s down to the Ravens and the Steelers in the AFC North and as tough as the purple schedule looks during the upcoming holiday season, it’s not any easier for yins’ donton either.

The Ravens have played nine games and have laid just one egg. They could easily be 8-1 with a little luck and some fourth quarter defense in the losses against Tennessee and Pittsburgh.

But I’m delighted with 6-3 and an emerging offense, stingy defense and the veteran play of Ray Lewis, Trevor Pryce and company leading the way for John Harbaugh’s troops. Yes, it’s been a VERY good year thus far, especially given the team’s modest expectations to be a .500 outfit.

There’s no crystal ball and no telling how the team will fare when the likes of the NFC East comes calling. But all of a sudden the upcoming matchups against Jacksonville and Pittsburgh at home don’t look so lopsided and quarterback Joe Flacco has looked less like a rookie than a veteran game manager and occasional long ball tosser who, combined with an effective three-headed backfield of Willis McGahee, Ray Rice and Le’Ron McClain, looks to be a factor in this run for January football.

It’s officially “Festivus” season in Baltimore.

Break out the purple lights.

Break out the expectations of fun on Sundays.

And by all means, enjoy this rarest of seasons – a November and holiday full of cheer, potential and hope for a playoff berth.

The good news came in waves yesterday.

The most significant developments happened on the offensive side of the ball, where Derrick Mason went down with a separated shoulder and Todd Heap got off the milk carton of the purple offense.

No doubt that No. 86 has heard the whispers of his pending demise and answered yesterday with his best game of the season.

Meanwhile, Ray Lewis turned in an effort with the impact he formerly had as a much younger man. Two interceptions, running sideline to sideline to once again hold an opposing offense’s star running back to less than 100 yards of rushing.

That makes 29 in a row, if my count is right.

Haloti Ngata’s interception at the goal line sparked a defensive effort that was classic Ravens defense but his contributions on every play should be earning him a grass skirt en route to Honolulu in early February. You’d be hard-pressed to find me a defensive tackle who is playing the game at a higher level right now as the defense continues to break the will of opposing running backs and frustrate and chase quarterbacks each Sunday.

Next up: the World Champion New York Giants.

They had their hands full with Philadelphia last night.

Texans Inactives:

Texans declared DT Amobi Okoye, WR Andre’ Davis, LB Chaun Thompson, OG Kasey Studdard, TE Mark Bruener, QB Matt Schaub, OL Rashad Butler, and FS Will Demps inactive for Week 10 against the Ravens.

• Pressure Pressure Pressure…Must get to Sage early and often. If he has time he can pick you apart.
• Keep the RUN going….40 to 45 rushes and 4+ yards per carry and the Ravens win…simple
• In Joe we trust….a 4th game without a turnover and the Ravens are 6 – 3 at 4:30pm…
• Don’t sleep on the Screen…Slaton can only do damage in the passing game if the Ravens lose sight of him out of the backfield.

Ravens 27, Texans 17Yes, I’m picking the Ravens. Stop the presses. The Ravens NEED to win this game, and I feel as though they are in the type of groove that will continue on the road Sunday. Expect a big day for the Ravens’ LB’s.

Delaware 24, Towson 20If this was a home game, the Tigers would get a win.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…….

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Joe Flacco says Ravens in ‘really good groove’

Brian Billick says Oakland’s Russell opposite of Flacco

Casey Willett says McGahee had ‘noticeable limp’ yesterday

Glenn Clark says last night’s game, Simpson’s performance last season examples of why Cosh could be out

Ed Frankovic says Caps get two goals in final minutes to beat Canes

Nestor Aparicio says Puck Bus included thrilling game

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Suggs thinks Harbaugh doing ‘good job night before the game getting (Ravens) ready’ on road

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says decision coming on Landry

The Official Site says Rex Ryan not talking to brother Rob regarding DeAngelo Hall

The Official Site’s Patrick Gleason says many Ravens thought last week’s game ‘defining’ moment for team

Texans Official Site’s Brooke Bentley says Kubiak will play Adibi 15 to 20 snaps

Texans Official Site’s Michael A. Lutz says Texans must get job done on 3rd down

Texans Official Site’s Nick Scurfield says Texans ready for Ravens’ 3-4 front

Texans Official Site says Kubiak thinks RB Green ‘should be fine’

The Sun’s Mike Preston gives highest praise at midway point to D-Line, LB’s

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens need production from Suggs, RB’s; must force Rosenfels to make mistakes

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens in playoff mix, but face difficult schedule

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says despite matching records, Flacco’s first 8 games better than Boller’s

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Clayton ‘refreshed’ by TD in Cleveland game

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Boller won’t be ‘bitter’

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Rolle found watching from sidelines ‘tough’

The Sun’s Mike Preston believes Ravens will be interested in Hall

The Sun’s Edward Lee says L. McClain dealing with sore ankle

The Sun’s Edward Lee says previously released Wheelwright back at practice

All Sun writers pick Ravens

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says Ayanbadejo happy to make impact on special teams

Aaron Wilson says Ravens respect Texans WR Johnson

Aaron Wilson says Ravens ‘don’t have much salary-cap room’ to use on Hall

The AP says Rice ‘invaluable’ to Ravens

Houston Chronicle’s John McClain picks Texans 23-20

Houston Chronicle’s Jerome Solomon thinks Kubiak could be coaching for job

Houston Chronicle’s Megan Manfull says Texans, Ravens each getting lift from rookie RB’s

Houston Chronicle’s Megan Manfull says Okoye could miss game

3 of 5 ESPN Sunday Countdown analysts pick Ravens

All ESPN analysts (except Chris Mortensen) pick Ravens

ESPN.com’s John Clayton says Ravens ‘desperately’ need to beat Texans

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Harbaugh has high approval

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Scouts Inc’s Kidd thinks teams MUST account for Suggs

SI’s “Dr. Z” has Ravens 17th in power rankings

Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer picks Ravens 20-14

4 of 6 Sporting News analysts pick Ravens

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The AP says strong efforts from Turner, DHB not enough as Terps lose 23-13

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site says Ralph frustrated by inability to tackle, stop run, get run going

The Official Site says DHB continues to move up career charts at Maryland

Virginia Tech Official Site says Evans outrushes Terps 253 to -12

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terps still control destiny in ACC

The Sun’s Rick Maese says 8 Bowl officials on hand to see Terps lose

The Sun’s Jeff Barker wonders if Portis experiment over

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Scott had ‘nowhere to run’
D
The Examiner’s Steve DeClue says Cosh ‘failing to take away other team’s strength’

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Warren’s hit on DHB permanently shifted momentum back to Tech

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Terps ‘never really had a chance’

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler and Greg Schimmel say Terps fall to 3-6 on Thursday nights under Ralph

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says ACC race further ‘muddled’ after Maryland loss

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says defense failed to stop run despite focus in practice

Washington Post’s Zach Berman says Glennon ‘gutsy’ in playing hurt

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Ralph ‘berated’ Cosh before half

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Terps tied for 1st with FSU, Wake now in Atlantic Division

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps post worst rushing output in Ralph’s tenure

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner ‘fortunate’ to only be sacked thrice

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Carroll injured ankle, T. Smith injured achilles in loss

Richmond Times-Dispatch’s Darryl Slater says Glennon found Boone for TD pass to open scoring

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Evans ‘proved doubters wrong’

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps ‘not looking like ACC Champ’

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says ‘deja vu’ for Glennon in earning job back

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Examiner’s Dylan Waugh says Gist blogging about pro experience

Frederick News-Post’s Greg Swatek says Vasquez knows he must stay ‘calm’

SI’s Luke Winn says Old Spice Classic best early season Tournament

CBS Sports’ Gary Parrish has Terps 8th in ACC

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Townsend wanted ‘family’ atmosphere in College Park

The Examiner says Toliver collecting preseason accolades

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Niumatalolo holding another luncheon next week

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Bryant ‘likely’ to start vs. Irish

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

Delaware Official Site offers Hens-Tigers release (pdf)

TOWSON LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Tigers visit Loyola to start ’09 season

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Bears again leading MEAC on ground

HOPKINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews trip to Franklin & Marshall

The Official Site offers complete Franklin & Marshall release (pdf)

UMBC BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says 7 games will be on TV this season

COPPIN BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says McKee named mid-major All-American

MT. ST. MARY’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Eers picked 22nd amongst Mid-Majors

The Official Site says Mitchell looking forward to Loyola contest

ORIOLES:

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Baez wants to start

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Bascom, Henson continue struggles in Hawaii

The Examiner’s Jay Trucker says trading for Greene would be ‘risky’

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Wieters, Tillman, Matusz, Arrieta, Reimold named top prospects by Baseball America

HORSE RACING:

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says slots could lead to improvements at Pimlico, Laurel

SWIMMING:

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Phelps, Bowman to partner at Meadowbrook

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Congratulations to “Unheralded Athlete of the Morning” Jenna Benke from Mercy.

-The highlights of last night’s game and Mikell Simpson’s performance vs. Virginia last season will be why Chris Cosh will likely be gone at the end of the season.

-Why shouldn’t Baez start? Who else do the Orioles have?

Talk to you Monday.

-G

There’s not a lot of shake up in the Fantasy Running Back Power Rankings this week. That’s not good news if you’re looking for help on the waiver wire this week though, unless you had the foresight to grab Ray Rice early, it’s likely you’ll have to look pretty far down on the start rankings to find some value on the waiver wire for week 10.

Week 10 Fantasy Running Back Power Rankings

RB Power Rankings Archive – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6 – 7 - 8 – 9

Remember that the power rankings listed here are a reflection of year to date performance only, and not an inducement of who to start this week. Check the list at the bottom of the column for this week’s start rankings.

(last week’s rankings in parentheses)

1. Clinton Portis (1) – WAS – 955 yds 7 TD

2. Brian Westbrook (2) – PHI – 422 yds 6 TD & 174 yds 2 TD rec

3. Matt Forte (5) – CHI – 641 yds 4 TD & 228 yds 2 TD rec

4. Marion Barber (3) – DAL – 665 yds 5 TD & 264 yds 2 TD

5. Frank Gore (6) – SF – 629 yds 4 TD & 311 yds 1 TD

6. Chris Johnson (10) – TEN – 715 yds 5 TD & 164 yds 1 TD rec

7. Adrian Peterson (7) – MIN – 823 yds 6 TD

8. Michael Turner (9) – ATL – 794 yds 6 TD

9. Steven Jackson (8) – ST.L – 525 yds 4 TD & 259 yds 0 TD rec

10. Brandon Jacobs (14) – NYG – 680 yds 7 TD

11. LaDanian Tomlinson (11) – SD – 551 yds 4 TD

12. Ronnie Brown (13) – MIA – 465 yds 8 TD & 19 yds 1 TD passing

13. Steve Slaton (15) – HOU – 538 yds 5 TD & 181 yds 1 TD rec

14. LenDale White (4) – TEN – 404 yds 10 TD

15. Marshawn Lynch (12) – BUF – 466 yds 6 TD & 199 yds 0 TD rec

16. Thomas Jones (16) – NYJ – 601 yds 5 TD & 104 yds 1 TD rec

17. Maurice Jones-Drew (18) – JAX – 363 yds 6 TD & 232 yds 0 TD rec

18. Earnest Graham (17) – TB – 560 yds 4 TD & 174 yds 0 TD rec

19. Jamal Lewis (NR) – CLE – 533 yds 3 TD

20. Tim Hightower (NR) – AZ – 242 yds 7 TD

Dropped from Rankings: Jonathan Stewart – CAR; Mewelde Moore – PIT

RBs Who Should Be Better Than Usual In Week 10: LaDanian Tomlinson vs. KC; Thomas Jones vs. ST.L; Jamal Lewis vs. DEN; Jonathan Stewart @ OAK; Tim Hightower vs. SF; Willie Parker vs. IND; Maurice Jones-Drew @ DET; Adrian Peterson vs. GB

RBs Who Could Be Sleepers Based on Week 10 Match Ups: DeAngelo Williams @ OAK; Edgerin James vs. SF; Mewelde Moore vs. IND; Ray Rice & LeRon McClain @ HOU; Kevin Smith vs. JAX; Selvin Young, Ryan Torrian or Peyton Hillis @ CLE (good luck figuring out Shanahan’s rotation this season)

RBs With Tough Week 10 Match Ups: Brian Westbrook vs. NYG; Ryan Grant @ MIN; Brandon Jacobs @ PHI; Marshawn Lynch @ NE; Frank Gore @ AZ; Matt Forte vs. TEN; Steven Jackson @ NYJ

RBs You Might Want to Avoid in Week 10: Steve Slaton vs. BAL; Joseph Addai & Dominic Rhodes @ PIT; Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden & Michael Bush vs. CAR

And here are the week 10 Fantasy RB start rankings; it’s this week’s top 50 running backs in the order that you should consider them. They were gotten using the Fantasy Flavor secret formula, and have their formulary numbers in parentheses, the lower the better. We’ll get all of the positional rankings out to you in time for the Thursday night game, so keep checking back for the rest.

*Note on Ryan Torrian – I’d insert him at about 12a based on the proclaimation that he’ll get a big chance this week. It could boost his value going forward based on Andre Hall and Michael Pittman on the IR, but Shanahan may continue to frustrate you down the line with Peyton Hillis and a healthier Selvin Young.

1. LaDanian Tomlinson (16)

2. Adrian Peterson (20)

3. Willie Parker (22)

4. Matt Forte (26)

5. Chris Johnson (27)

6. Frank Gore (29)

7. Michael Turner (29)

8. Brian Westbrook (32)

9. Thomas Jones (33)

10. Tim Hightower (33)

11. Ronnie Brown (34)

12. Steven Jackson (35)

13. Jamal Lewis (38)

14. DeAngelo Williams (38)

15. Maurice Jones-Drew (40)

16. Brandon Jacobs (43)

17. Ray Rice (43)

18. LenDale White (47)

19. Marshawn Lynch (50)

20. LeRon McClain (53)

21. Steve Slaton (54)

22. Kevin Smith (56)

23. Kevin Faulk (56)

24. Edgerin James (57)

25. Selvin Young (59)

26. Julius Jones (60)

27. Jonathan Stewart (60)

28. BenJarvis Green-Ellis (66)

29. Mewelde Moore (66)

30. Leon Washington (69)

31. Joseph Addai (73)

32. Jerious Norwood (75)

33. Deuce McAllister (75)

34. JJ Arrington (75)

35. Derrick Ward (79)

36. Darren Sproles (81)

37. Ricky Williams (82)

38. Ryan Grant (90)

39. Patrick Cobbs (90)

40. Chester Taylor (92)

41. Justin Fargas (92)

42. Correll Buckhalter (100)

43. Michael Bush (100)

44. Jamal Charles (101)

45. Fred Jackson (102)

46. Dominic Rhodes (103)

47. Peyton Hillis (105)

48. Ahman Green (106)

49. TJ Duckett (106)

50. Leonard Weaver (108)

Peace,

T

(thyrl@wnst.net)

Week 10 QB Power Ranks and Weekly Previews

Week 10 WR Power Ranks and Weekly Previews

Week 10 TE Power Ranks and Weekly Previews

Week 10 D/ST Power Ranks and Weekly Previews

Week 10 K Power Ranks and Weekly Previews

It’s hard enough to compile a Tuesday Top 7 when the team loses…but when they win 37-27 and you have about 10 players who were outstanding, how do you put them in order?  I just put ‘em in a hat and start drawing names.

Not really.

But it IS difficult to pick the Top 7 this week.  That said, the list is below and ready for your review.

7. Ben Grubbs — Team rushes for 193 yards and 4.7 yards per-carry.  It’s not just the running backs.  Grubbs has been terrific all year.  Not many people have noticed.  Except the QB and RB’s, that is.  A Ravens official said to me Monday — “Ben hasn’t had a bad half this year…let alone a bad game.”

6. Ray Lewis — 4 solo tackles on the day aren’t typical 52 numbers, but if you notice, Cleveland didn’t throw the ball across the middle much (probably because no one wanted to go get it?) and that reduced the number of highlight-hits Ray could amass.  He’s on the list because of “the speech” in the 3rd quarter.  Period.  Players said the hair stood up on the back of their neck when he was yelling.  When Ray talks, E.F. Hutton listens.  Seriously.

5. Bart Scott — Maybe he’s starting to “smell the money” too, but Bart had a whopping 10 tackle day including 7 in run support as the Ravens – again – completely clamped down on the opposition’s running game with help from the linebackers. 

4. Mark Clayton — Yep, Mark Clayton.  4 catches for 87 yards and a 47-yard TD reception.  Enough said, really.  The Ravens need him to come through.  Sunday, he did.

3. Joe Flacco — Joe Cool was at it again on Sunday, guiding the Ravens back from a 27-13 second half deficit.  Has now gone three straight games without throwing a pick and has completely, COMPLETELY, erased the memory of that debacle in…in…where was it?  See.

2. Derrick Mason — I’m starting to think he could catch Bin Laden.  He catches everything else.  9 catches for 136 yards and a TD on Sunday.  If the season ended today, he’d be in the Pro Bowl.  If the season ended today, he’d be the Ravens offensive MVP. 

1. Ray Rice — 154 yards on the ground and a backbreaking 60-yard scamper in the 4th quarter that set up Baltimore’s go-ahead field goal.  Also caught three passes out of the backfield.  Continues to “do it all”…the question is, how much will he do when McGahee comes back?  Glad that’s not my decision.

Season point totals –

7. Ray Rice – 14 points

6. Le’Ron McClain – 15 points

5. Jarrett Johnson – 16 points

4. Terrell Suggs – 22 points

3. Derrick Mason – 23 points

2. Ray Lewis - 23 points

1. Joe Flacco – 24 points

What an emotional win.On the road, in the division, against an improving team who had EVERYTHING to play for.

AND they had to rally from down 14 in the second half.

What an absolutely remarkable win.

If the Joe Flacco that played in the 2^nd half shows up for the rest of the season; this COULD be a playoff team.

Absolutely remarkable win. Nothing else I can say.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…….

Best of Sunday’s WNST Blogs:

Nestor Aparicio

says Ravens create first ‘miracle’ of Harbaugh era

Drew Forrester says Ravens will make playoffs

Drew Forrester says Ravens officially have quarterback

Casey Willett says Flacco hasn’t thrown INT in 3 games

Casey Willett says offense had answer for everything in win

Thyrl Nelson wonders if Stover’s time in Baltimore should be over

Alex Thomas grateful Crennel tried to run

Ed Frankovic still has Ravens concerns

Glenn Clark says Navy got ‘lucky’

RAVENS:The Official Site’s Mike Duffy

says Ravens score 24 unanswered in 2^nd half to beat Browns

The Official Site says Harbaugh not surprised by performances of Flacco, Rice

The Official Site’s Denver Parler says Ravens again shut down run

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Mason goes over 100 yards for 17^th time in career

Browns Official Site’s Zac Jackson says Suggs’ INT return provided ‘dagger’ for Ravens

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens overcame 14 point deficit in 2^nd half to beat Browns

The Sun’s David Steele says Ravens lifted by pep talk from 52

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Ravens get major production from young players in Flacco, Rice

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Ravens get production from backup DB’s

The Sun’s Mike Preston gives highest praise to Running Backs, D-Line

The Sun’s Ken Murray says after Cribbs burned Ravens for TD; Ayanbadejo responded with big tackles

The Sun’s Ray Frager says Gannon stumbled during broadcast

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says if Ravens lose to Texans; Giants game could be ‘make or break’

The Examiner’s Gary Lambrecht thinks Rice should be elevated to top RB

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder gives highest praise to RB’s, D-Line, LB’s

The AP says former Brown Stover adds 3 FG’s in win

Aaron Wilson says 52 told Ravens they’d win game

Aaron Wilson says 52 took stopping Jamal ‘personally’

Aaron Wilson says victory gives Ravens day off today

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Tony Grossi says Ravens dedicated win to Modell

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Terry Pluto says Anderson ‘lost poise’, not Flacco

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Dennis Manoloff says key drop from Edwards could have changed things for Browns

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Terry Pluto can’t figure out how Browns wouldn’t have enough ‘energy’

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Tony Grossi says Ravens had ‘edge’ in offense, defense, coachingCleveland Plain Dealer’s Dennis Manoloff

says Rice put ‘starch’ in Ravens’ rushing attack

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Bud Shaw thinks after loss Browns should switch to Quinn

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Mary Kay Cabot says Browns ‘frustrated’ by loss

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Mary Kay Cabot says teammates won’t blame loss on Edwards’ drop

Akron Beacon Journal’s Marla Ridenour says 20 yard completion to Mason on 3^rd and 16 huge for Ravens in rally

Canton Repository’s Steve Doerschuk says McClain, Mason had TD’s for Ravens in rally

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens ‘demand respect’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens ‘wanted’ win more

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Flacco found Clayton for 47 yard TD pass in first half

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Stallworth, McAlister missed game

SI’s Don Banks thinks Suggs INT will cost Anderson starting job

SI’s Peter King says Ravens one of many NFL teams playing for now and future

CBS Sports’ Clark Judge says Ravens should be taken ‘seriously’

Yahoo! Sports’ Michael Silver says Flacco looks like ‘semi-seasoned pro’

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:The Official Site

previews Thursday tussle with Virginia Tech

The Official Site offers complete Maryland-Virginia Tech release (pdf)The Sun

says Terps move into BCS rankings

The Sun’s Ron Fritz says Ralph takes chopper to high school game

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Hawkins committed to Maryland to stay near family

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says having Portis throw would keep defenses ‘honest’

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Terps move to 23^rd in AP poll

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Terps now alone in first place

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Meggett ‘unflappable’

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Glennon, Taylor both returned to practice for Hokies

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says availability of Scott, Philistin might not be known until kickoff

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps 21^st in coaches’ poll

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps can clinch division by winning next 3 games

Washington Post’s Zach Berman says Holt might be responsible for keeping Hokies in title race

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps mostly support Obama

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says 14 voters didn’t put Terps in Top 25

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps one of 4 ACC teams in BCS Top 25

ESPN.com’s Mark Schlabach thinks Terps headed to Jacksonville; Bruce Feldman thinks Terps Boise-bound

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps must beat Florida State to move ahead of them in power rankingsESPN.com’s Heather Dinich

says Terps can be considered ‘frontrunner’ since they don’t have division loss yet

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Turner ‘rising to top’ (must subscribe)Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh

says VA DE prospect Hill discusses visit (must subscribe)TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site

says Terps win first exhibition game

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says Coleman leads Terps with 18

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Kizer had 13 points, 12 boards in win

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps open season ranked 3^rd in AP poll

NAVY FOOTBALL:The Official Site

says clinching bowl berth part of big weekend in Annapolis

The Sun’s Don Markus says Mids now have week off before preparing for Notre Dame in Baltimore

The Examiner’s Steve DeClue happy to see Mids play bowl game locally

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Niumatalolo becomes first coach to get Navy to bowl in first season

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Navy hopes to bring 30,000 to EagleBank Bowl

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says BC or Duke would be Navy’s Bowl opponent as of now

Go Mids’ Matt Zemek says ‘Christmas came early’ for Mids Saturday

ORIOLES:MLB.com

says Wieters “Best Hitter” in minor leagues

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says hot stove starts for MacPhail at this week’s GM meetings

The Examiner’s Jay Trucker says Cintron might not be missed

BLAST:The Official Site

announces ESPN Zone event

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:-If you haven’t checked it out yet; please go to FlaccoFacts.com. Brilliant!

-I disagree with Drew. I think Troy Smith can help this offense. But the offense has to be on the same page when he gets into the game. It might be his fault, it might be the O-Line’s fault. But they have to get together in those situations.

-Congratulations to Comcast Morning Show Athlete of the Morning Kelly Ward; who had the game winner for Mercy as they beat IND 2-1 yesterday for the C conference title. We love the Mercy Magic!

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

So we are now eight games into the NFL season and the Baltimore Ravens are now 5-3 after a thrilling come from behind 37-27 win in Cleveland today and my question to all of you is as follows: Should the 2008 Ravens be considered a good team at this point of the season?

The question sounds easy but with half of the season to go I’m not sure we can answer yes or no yet. They’ve beaten Cincinnati, Miami, Oakland, and now Cleveland twice, lost two close games to the Steelers and the Titans and had their doors blown off by the Colts. Let’s face it, they could easily be 7-1 or at least 6-2 but they gave away two games, albeit to two good football teams.

However, today’s 14 point rally by the offense and then subsequent defensive shutdown of Cleveland has me starting to think that this Baltimore Ravens team is very close to being considered a good team and can contend for a playoff spot despite a very difficult second half of the season schedule.

When you come back from two touchdowns down on the road, as the Ravens did today at a place where the defending Super Bowl Champion New York Giants (7-1) lost their only football game this season, you show you not only have talent but, more importantly, you display that you can overcome adversity and doing that is the very foundation for becoming a good team.

On the field the Ravens are making lots of plays but there are still some obvious holes such as the beat up secondary that seems to hang on by a thread at times against the pass, a kick return and coverage team that takes too many penalties and has trouble covering kicks (boy am I glad we don’t have to see Joshua Cribbs for the rest of the season), and an offense that is banged up and struggled today to score a TD on a first and goal from the three yard line late in the contest.

But when you stick together and guys step up when they are behind by several points, as we saw Ray Rice, Derrick Mason, Joe Flacco, Mark Clayton, Le’Ron McClain and any of the guys on the constantly changing offensive line did today you start to build team chemistry between the offense and defense. Today I really believe that the offense won the game and energized the defense going 79 yards in just under five minutes when Cleveland was up 27-13 in the third quarter. After that Ravens TD drive the defense was lights out the rest of the way after struggling for the previous quarter of play.

This win reminded me of the one two years ago in Tennessee when the Ravens trailed 26-7 and didn’t have Ray Lewis but came back with some great offense and a stifling defense to eke out a 27-26 win. That win helped spur a 13-3 season and, I believe, made all 53 players and coaches realize they had something special going on that year. A win like today could do that with this team, especially if the players and coaches realize how special this win was and continue to learn to stick together despite some of the recent distractions (see C-Mac saga and T-Sizzle QB comments).

Flacco and the offense continue to improve and with the Ravens ability to stop any teams running game they should almost always be in the football game. So right now, if you ask me, I would have to say yes, this is a good team. But of course they have eight more games against some very good teams to prove it and it starts next week against a Houston Texans team that has a very good passing attack. What do you think?

By the way, a Redskins win over Pittsburgh tomorrow night would put the Ravens in a tie for first place in the AFC North at 5-3. Dare I say “Go Redskins??!!”

Here are the Week 9 Fantasy Flavor Running Back Power Rankings. It’s the top 20 RBs based on what we’ve seen so far, and a look ahead at this week’s match ups. In addition to the power rankings, we’ve identified the best and worst match ups for week 9 and ranked this week’s top 50 running backs in the order you should consider them. Continue Reading

Here’s my Tuesday Top 7……..7. Jameel McClain

Welcome to the defense, rookie. McClain came out of the gates making plays; and didn’t seem to be even a bit out of place at all during Sunday’s game. I wonder if there are any more McClains on this roster somewhere…..

6. Joe Flacco

If not for the catch, Joe wouldn’t make the list. To be honest, Joe was downright erratic in the first half. But learning the new wrinkles in this offense couldn’t possibly have been easy for Joe; and he executed the new offense perfectly in the 2^nd half.

5. Troy Smith

Troy Smith could have lost faith. He had a great opportunity to become this team’s starting QB; but the opportunity was robbed from him by a VERY unfortunate illness. Instead of moping and feeling sorry for himself; Troy battled back, learned a new way to participate in the offense; and was a major contributor to a win. Good stuff.

4. Jarrett Johnson

He’s not Adalius Thomas. But he doesn’t need to be. He’s having an OUTSTANDING year; and I hope teams keep trying to go to his side of the field.

3. Haloti Ngata

He’s going to catch a TD pass at some point this season, too. You just can’t get past him right now. Remember when the Ravens had to choose between him, Cameron Wimbley, and Broderick Bunkley? Nice decision.

2. Ray Rice

He’s NOT a featured back. But he doesn’t need to be. He needs to be a player that can give the Ravens an offensive weapon on multiple levels; which is EXACTLY what he did Sunday.

1. Terrell Suggs

Totally unreal. That’s all I need to say.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester

agrees with Ian Eagle’s Orioles comments

Drew Forrester thinks Rice top Raven in Raiders’ win

Rob Long says Ravens part of ‘complicated’ AFC

Thyrl Nelson has Ravens 14^th in Power Rankings

Bryan Powell says Navy first team to win without throwing in 11 years

RAVENS:The Official Site’s Mike Duffy

says Cameron would use any active player who can help offense

The Official Site’s Scott Garceau says Flacco had ‘fun’ performance in win

The Official Site’s Kristen Deahl remembers the greatness of Ogden

The Official Site reports Harbaugh thinks Ravens ‘just scratching surface’ of potential offense

Browns Official Site’s Steve King says safeties Jones, Adams both dealing with injuries before game with Ravens

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says offense must continue ‘evolution’

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Cameron knows trick plays won’t always work

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Gaither trying to limit mistakes

The Sun’s Bill Ordine thinks Rice could be used like Eagles’ Westbrook

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh ‘optimistic’ about Ayanbadejo playing, ‘pessimistic’ about Landry

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Suggs should say anything he wants now

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says offense improving execution

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder and Dave Carey offer highest praise to D-Line, Linebackers

The Examiner’s Phil Macek says things get tougher from here

Aaron Wilson says Harbaugh thinks Ravens could use 2 QB package ‘every game’

Aaron Wilson says Harbaugh ‘optimistic’ Rolle will return Sunday

The AP says trick plays help Ravens ‘shed bland label’

Cleveland Plain-Dealer’s Mary Kay Cabot says Winslow ready to return from suspension

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Winslow back just in time for ‘big division game’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says defense, Cameron ‘hot’CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco

gives Ravens B+ for performance in win

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:The Sun’s Matt Bracken

says commits Porzel, Brown, etc. all had big weekends

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says DHB, Tate could each play on Sunday

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Wujciak averaging 10 tackles per game

The Sun’s Jeff Barker thinks DHB made TD catch on final drive

The Examiner’s Steve DeClue says Terps in ‘great position’ to play for ACC title

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Terps overcame conditions to beat Wolfpack

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Holt will be Hokies’ #1 QB in practice

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Terps own tiebreaker advantage

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says resurgence of Cavs has helped Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Tech’s Holt could make first career start vs. Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph has only coached one game ever when bowl possibility gone

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says despite potentially playing ‘best game of season’, Navarre doesn’t pick up Player of the Week award

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says TE Boone will act as backup to Holt while QB’s injured

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says both Taylor, Glennon in walking boots this week

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says some wins not as good, some losses not as bad as they originally appeared

ESPN.com’s John Clayton says former Terp Hill named starter in San Fran

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps can take over first place if GT beats FSU

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Va Tech’s problems deeper than QB issue

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:The Sun’s Don Markus

wouldn’t have voted Terps as high as 7th

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Neal thinks Vasquez should be all-conference

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:Washington Post’s Camille Powell

says Terps making statement on net

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says prospect Mincy ‘enjoyed’ Madness trip (must subscribe)Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter

says Townsend considers Terps ‘family’ (must subscribe)NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site

previews Navy-Temple

The Official Site offers complete Navy-Temple release (pdf)Temple Official Site

previews Saturday’s trip to Navy

Temple Official Site offers complete Temple-Navy release (pdf)The Sun’s Don Markus

says KNKE could return vs. Temple

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says defense got back on track in win

The Examiner’s Tom Flynn says White surpassed 2,000 yards in win over SMU

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Mids have ‘options’ with Dobbs

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says KNKE will get Senior Day start

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Niumatalolo ‘encouraged’ by KNKE’s running

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Mids will have to return to air at some point (must subscribe)TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site

previews Saturday’s tilt with William & Mary

William & Mary Official Site previews Saturday’s trip to Towson

SALISBURY FOOTBALL:The Official Site

says Gulls 16^th in poll

UMBC BASKETBALL:The Official Site

says Dogs picked to finish 4^thLOYOLA BASKETBALL:

The Official Site

says individual tickets available now

MT. ST. MARY’S BASKETBALL:The Official Site

says Goode honored by CollegeHoops.net

Carroll County Times’ Bob Blubaugh says Goode, Cajou lead way in scrimmage

ORIOLES:The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin

thinks Jones best served hitting 5^th or 6^th in lineup

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Orioles should learn from Rays, Phils

The Examiner’s Jay Trucker thinks Loewen ‘overpaid, underachieving, glass-armed, floppy-haired jerk’

The Examiner’s Neal Shaffer happy to see Birds will go after free agents

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL:Ravens Official Site

names Northwestern’s Woodson Coach of the Week

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:-The subject of the ACC’s TV package for football came up this morning; and I think there is one simple answer for making sure that Maryland games-and the rest of the league’s games-are always available. I think the ACC needs to look into creating their own regional TV network; much like the Big Ten. They wouldn’t lose their partnerships with ABC and ESPN; as the Big Ten still gets their biggest games on the major national spotlight (i.e. Ohio State-Penn State Saturday night on ABC). But not only would they make sure they get ALL of their football games on TV; but they can get basketball games again non-sexy opponents televised; more women’s hoops on TV; and lacrosse, soccer, and baseball televised for sure. It is practically a no-brainer.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

Next week is important. If the Ravens can go on the road and beat a revitalized Browns team; they’re a contender. If not, they’ve got the Browns to contend with down the stretch in the race for the playoffs in the AFC. Yesterday was a VERY fun win, but it wasn’t the difference maker. Next Sunday will be the difference maker.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Sunday’s WNST Blogs:

Nestor Aparicio wonders where Raiders’ “Commitment to Excellence” went

Drew Forrester thinks Raiders should be ashamed of performance

Bob Haynie thought Smith-to-Flacco ‘exciting’, ‘fun’

Rob Long thinks Harbaugh creating ‘best situation for team to be successful’

Casey Willett says Ravens struggled with ‘razzle dazzle’ early

Glenn Clark thinks Terps’ Mosley ‘remarkable’

Alex Thomas thinks Rice ‘rock star’

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Cameron got ‘creative’ in win

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ogden ‘emotional’ at halftime Ring of Honor ceremony

The Official Site’s Sam Angell says having 2 QB’s on field gives offense ‘new wrinkles’

Raiders Official Site says McGahee added TD for Ravens in win

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Flacco throws for TD, runs for TD and makes big catch in win

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Ravens picked up 75 yards on 4 plays with two QB’s in backfield

The Sun’s David Steele says Suggs almost ruined “Suggs package”

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says defense forces 4 sacks, safety in win

The Sun’s Mike Preston gives high praise to running backs, D-Line, linebackers

The Sun’s Mike Preston says playing Raiders may have well as been ‘Bye’ for Ravens

The Sun’s Edward Lee says McAlister deactivated before game due to knee

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Ravens use Rice successfully in multiple ways

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Flacco found WIDE OPEN D. Williams for deep TD pass in win

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says McClain’s safety opened scoring

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Ravens can’t keep committing penalties on offense and beat good teams

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Suggs’ statements got Ravens in trouble with league

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Ravens have chance to get into first place tie next weekend

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Flacco, Smith playing together shows ‘team unity’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Suggs inspired by stupid comments

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Harbaugh wants offense to be ‘aggressive’, ‘creative’

The Examiner’s Gary Lambrecht not ‘jubilant’ about win over awful Raiders

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says Ravens score season-high 29 points in win

Aaron Wilson says “Falco” ‘playing like Randy Moss’

Aaron Wilson says Smith ‘excited’ to return to field

Aaron Wilson says J. McClain makes impact in NFL debut

Aaron Wilson gives highest praise to linebackers

Carroll County Times’ Ryan Chell says Ogden ‘almost broke down’ during ceremony

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Flacco displays ‘versatility’ in win

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Ogden ran out of tunnel once more before entering Ring of Honor

The AP’s David Ginsburg says Flacco didn’t want to look like ‘fool’ when trying to make catch

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens ‘quietly hanging around’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens again on ‘winning streak’

ESPN.com’s John Clayton says Raiders ‘helpless’

SI’s Peter King reads WNST.net, thinks Ravens DO have ‘bounty’

Yahoo! Sports’ Charles Robinson thinks Cameron ‘winner’ for play calling

SF Chronicle’s David White says Raiders ‘overmatched’ by Ravens

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Terps enter AP rankings at 25th

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph thinks ranking ‘nice’ but meaningless at this point of season

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says big donors to make Virginia Tech trip

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Meggett thought he ‘should have scored’ on final drive

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph thinks getting into Top 25 represents league ‘parity’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Scott has extra time to recover from shoulder injury

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph thinks O-Line played ‘best they have so far’ in win

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Hokies dealing with injuries to both QB’s heading towards Maryland game

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Terps can play for title by winning out

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Scott ‘still very sore’ yesterday

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says ‘tough guy’ Scott taking role as leader

Frederick News-Post’s Greg Swatek says Meggett filling ‘key role’ for Terps

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Terps in Top 25 for first time since ‘06

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says both Va Tech QB’s ‘questionable’ for Maryland game

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says both Va Tech QB’s have ankle sprains

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Philistin will have MRI today

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says throwing in rain Saturday ‘pretty tough’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says ranking may not be good sign for Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says almost half of AP voters put Maryland on ballot

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens wouldn’t be surprised if Scott ‘questionable’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps, Heels only bowl eligible teams in ACC thus far

ESPN.com’s Mark Schlabach thinks Terps Jacksonville-bound; Bruce Feldman has them in Boise

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich has Terps 3^rd in power rankings

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Ralph thinks ACC teams will keep fluctuating in rankings

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps, Noles have created separation in division

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Scott ‘kept momentum going’ in win

Turtle Sports Report’s Seth Hoffman says Scott gets ‘motivational’ after injury on final drive

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley checks in with Ralph’s Sunday thoughts (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Terps picked to finish 7^th in preseason poll

The AP’s Aaron Beard says Terps get 192 points in ACC voting

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says little attention paid to Terps on Media Day

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Vasquez picks Terps 4^th in ACC

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Gary thinks ACC should get 7 teams in NCAA Tournament

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Mids receive votes in AP Top 25

The Official Site’s Bob Socci says DE Walsh ‘vocal leader’

The Sun’s Don Markus says OC Jasper thinks Dobbs ‘not ready’

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner ‘doesn’t think’ Mids face QB controversy

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Navy just one win away from DC Bowl trip

Go Mids’ Matt Zemek says Navy used ‘classic’ formula to beat Stangs (must subscribe)

ORIOLES:

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says former Bird Bradford having ‘unbelievable’ time with Rays

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Matusz continues to shine, Reimold continues to struggle in Arizona

BLAST:

The Sun’s Kent Baker says league will likely play with 4 teams due to Orlando’s exit

FIGURE SKATING:

The Sun’s Candus Thomson says Meissner can’t overcome early falls, finishes 8^th at Skate America

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Congratulations to John Carroll QB Steven St. Clair for being named today’s “Athlete of the Morning” on the Comcast Morning Show. St. Clair scored TD’s in the air, on the ground, via INT return, and via punt return as John Carroll PASTED Boys’ Latin. Congratulations to all of our other nominees as well.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G