Here’s my own Tuesday Top 7 on Wednesday……

7-Ben Grubbs

He manned up by coming in on defense on 3^rd and goal in the 4^th quarter. If the Steelers had punched it in; that game is over.

6-Chris McAlister

It wasn’t his best game FOR SURE. But you can still see how much a team’s offensive gameplan changes JUST because he’s on the field. He’s always a difference maker.

5-Jason Brown

He continues to control the interior part of the offensive line; and has been the Ravens’ top O-Lineman all season.

4-Joe Flacco

The 3^rd and long pass to Derrick Mason during the game-tying drive in the 4^th quarter is proof that Joe Flacco is a MAN. He made mistakes, but he certainly manned up in the 4^th.

3-Haloti Ngata

Without his interception, the Steelers could have run and hid in the 1^st half. They were dominating the ball early on; and the Ravens NEEDED the pick just to get something positive going.

2-Ray Lewis

Does anyone show more pride or passion on the field than Ray Lewis? He was all over the field AGAIN; and was once again the inspiration for the entire defense.

1-Derrick Mason

All he ever does is catch passes. When everyone in the world knew Derrick Mason was getting the ball; he still managed to get the ball. Truly remarkable performance.

Here’s my running total for the season so far….

1. Chris McAlister-16 points
2. Ray Lewis-12 points
3. Jason Brown, Derrick Mason-8 points
4. Haloti Ngata, Joe Flacco-7 points
5. Le’Ron McClain-6 points
6. Terrell Suggs-5 points
7. Yamon Figurs, Adam Terry-4 points
8. Jared Gaither-3 points
9. Jim Leonhard-2 points
10. Ed Reed-1 point

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

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester thinks Mason top Raven Monday Night

Drew Forrester thinks Monday Night ‘bad’ loss

Casey Willett says Harbaugh called for run on 3^rd & goal from 8 in hopes to catch Steelers ‘off guard’

The Fighting Ungers ready to get on Ravens bandwagon

Thyrl Nelson has Ravens 12^th in power rankings

Keith Melchior can’t figure why Ravens didn’t go to Heap more

Alex Thomas gives game ball to Flacco

Ed Frankovic picks Caps 2^nd in East

RAVENS:

The Official Site previews Sunday’s game

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Mason star of Monday’s loss

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Flacco held up under pressure Monday night

The Official Site’s Scott Garcaeu says Ravens prove they can play with anyone

The Official Site says Harbaugh thought ‘a couple plays went against’ Ravens Monday night

The Official Site says players think R. Ryan would make good President

The Official Site says Harbaugh didn’t know Mason was in before Steelers ran next play

Titans Official Site previews Sunday’s game

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Harbaugh expects Ravens to become ‘dynasty’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says McGahee dealing with rib injury

The Sun’s Mike Preston agrees with some of Harbaugh’s decisions, disagrees with others

The Sun’s Ken Murray thinks Ravens can make playoffs, Peter Schmuck doesn’t

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says return game hurt Ravens

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh defends J. Johnson

The Sun’s Mike Preston thinks Browns and Ravens will compete for AFC North crown (REALLY?)

The Sun’s Mike Preston says defensive backs need to improve tackling

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Harbaugh committed to putting together ‘complete team’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck sees ‘long term encouragement’ in Monday’s loss

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Young a bit off in criticism of Ravens

Aaron Wilson says Ravens ‘regret’ MNF loss

Aaron Wilson says McGahee only injury stemming from Monday Night loss

Carroll County Times’ Haruki Nakamura ‘hopes’ dressing as Polamalu helped Ravens prepare

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says Flacco believes he can ‘learn from’ Pittsburgh loss

The Examiner’s Gary Lambrecht says Ravens can take ‘small victories’ from loss

The AP says McGahee’s Sunday status ‘unclear’

Washington Post’s Leonard Shapiro says Billick ‘staying in game’ through broadcasting

Nashville City Paper’s Terry McCormick says Ravens, Titans renewing heated rivalry

The Tennessean’s Jim Wyatt says Titans must pressure Flacco to win

ESPN.com lifts Ravens to 14^th in Power Rankings

ESPN.com Page 2’s Gregg Easterbrook says Ravens amongst teams who lost despite outgaining opponents

ESPN.com’s James Walker says analysts impressed by Ravens ‘matching Steelers play for play’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Mason ‘hot’

SI’s Don Banks says Harbaugh part of good month for rookie head coaches

SI’s Peter King says Flacco ‘not tight or high strung’

Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer has Ravens 18^th in Power Rankings

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

Virginia Official Site says Groh knows Terps coming in with ‘confidence’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terps haven’t always been honest about injuries

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph knows Virginia outstanding in home openers

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph didn’t think Bowden should care about booing

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Moten to miss 4-5 weeks

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Oquendo banged up before returning to field

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph views Virginia game as potential ‘trap’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Moten having wrist surgery

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps ‘harbor animosity’ for Cavs

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Carroll, Oquendo, Scott all ‘questionable’

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Terps, Cavs rarely good at same time

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says punting solid for Terps again

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie wonders if MTSU or potential Virginia loss would be worse

Washington Post’s Zach Berman says Cavs looking for first passing TD of season

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph concerned about O-Line

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Egekeze has hit 5 straight since terrible start to season

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Moten amongst ‘most valuable’ Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Frost, Ivey also ‘questionable’ Saturday

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Scott, Tyler tops on 3^rd down

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Oquendo has almost 800 passer rating

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Philistin uses altitude machine

Frederick News-Post’s Greg Swatek says Ralph thought O-Line suffered from ‘missed assignments’

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Terps still trying to recover from injuries to secondary

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says ACC Atlantic wide open for taking

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Maryland games haven’t been easy to pick (Don’t I know!)

Richmond Times-Dispatch’s Jeff White says Groh comes into game clearly on hot seat

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps will lack ‘legitimate depth’ at LB without Moten

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says MTSU loss still hurting Terps

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Dunbar’s Austin will trim list of schools soon (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter checks in on Maryland commitment (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Niumatalolo thinks Air Force ‘biggest game of the season’

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Mids taking ‘wait and see’ approach with KNKE

Go Mids updates records of Navy’s opponents

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s conference opener with Bethune-Cookman

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Baptiste’s catch makes him internet star

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Quint Kessenich wonders how Jays will replace Rabil, Peyser

ORIOLES:

The Sun’s Childs Walker says Orioles hope they can be like Rays

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL:

Ravens Official Site says Perry Hall’s Robinson Coach of the Week

HORSE RACING:

Thoroughbred Times’ Pete Denk says sales down at Timonium

SWIMMING:

The Sun says Naval Academy Band, Morgan State choir to perform at Phelps event Saturday

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I agree with Casey Willett in wondering what Willis McGahee’s future in Baltimore will hold. I’m not REALLY certain that the Ravens are a better team with him at this point.

-The Terps will miss Adrian Moten. They’ll be okay against Virginia this week; but when Wake is trying to gut them with the run; they will wish they had another linebacker to step in and make some plays.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

I’m not going to back off my disapproval with the play calling at the end of the game last night. It didn’t cost the Ravens the game-that happened earlier. It actually cost them the chance to steal a game they probably shouldn’t have won at that point.

When the Ravens decided to throw the ball twice on 2^nd down with a 10 point lead in the 3^rd quarter; they were essentially saying that they wanted to give Joe Flacco the chance to put the game away. They trusted Flacco when the pressure wasn’t as palpable; but that trust disappeared on the final drive of regulation; DESPITE FLACCO PUTTING TOGETHER HIS BEST NFL DRIVE JUST ONE POSSESSION EARLIER!

The circumstances at the end of regulation did not necessitate that the Ravens play for overtime. They did the right thing by running on 1^st and 2^nd down; and were able to move to the 25 with just under a minute to play. From the 25; they needed to complete THREE 15 yard passes to have a shot at a comfortable Matt Stover field goal (Picking up 45 yards there would have brought you to Pittsburgh’s 30; setting up a 47 yard FG attempt). If you do not have THREE 15 yard passes in your 2 minute offense; you DON’T HAVE A 2 MINUTE OFFENSE!

There are some who will say that the Ravens couldn’t take the risk of turning the ball over there and giving Pittsburgh the chance to score before the end of regulation; but that entire argument is absurd. Let me explain this so that there is no misunderstanding……

Because of the structure of NFL overtimes; the rest of the game there is played under the same circumstances as those inside the final 2 minutes of regulation. Whether you give the Steelers the ball back with :40 left in regulation, or with 13 minutes left in overtime; if they score, they win! There’s NO ADVANTAGE TO GOING TO OVERTIME! In fact, playing for overtime means you’re willing to risk NOT EVER getting the ball back.

The only thing the Ravens accomplished by taking the ball out of Flacco’s hand in the final 2 minutes was to potentially make the other players on this team wonder how much this coaching staff really trusts their rookie QB.

But the game was LOST in the 3^rd quarter. This was just a lost chance at STEALING a win.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….(As a note; internet problems have allowed me to only get HALF of what I wanted to link this morning. I am VERY sorry for that.)

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Casey Willett not certain Mason definitely made disputed catch

Nestor Aparicio said trip to Pittsburgh had many highlights

Alex Thomas is heartbroken

RAVENS:

Steelers Official Site’s Teresa Varley says Steelers lose Mendenhall, Simmons for season in win

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens blow ten point lead in loss

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Ravens proved themselves as ‘real’

The Sun’s David Steele says Flacco ‘kept poise’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Steelers’ pass rush caused costly turnover, score

The Sun’s Mike Preston thinks offense average at best

The Sun’s Edward Lee thought game turned on J. Johnson penalty

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Ravens must now prepare for Titans

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Flacco ‘welcomed’ to NFL last night

The AP’s Alan Robinson says Reed’s 46 yard FG beats Ravens in OT

Aaron Wilson says Steelers in first place after win

Aaron Wilson says Washington made season debut in loss

ORIOLES:

Washington Post’s Marc Carig says MacPhail ‘not deterred’ by losing season

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Baltz shares ACC Special Teams Player of the Week honor

The Official Site previews Maryland-Virginia

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

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says Tate making impact for Terps

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps struggled to run in win

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Baltz’s big week just part of solid season

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Terps appear to have tougher schedule ahead than division foes

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says MTSU loss reason Terps aren’t ranked

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie not sure Terps better than any current ranked teams

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens thinks Terps 30^th best team in country

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Wujciak would have won Defensive Player or the Week had it not been for Tauiliili

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says DHB tied record for longest non-scoring run

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner has now thrown TD passes in 4 straight games

Terrapin Times’ Claire Knudsen says LS Schmitt following in brother’s footsteps (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Washington Post’s Josh Barr says former Maryland assistant Lonergan gets another local recruit

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says J. Williams happy with Maryland after visit (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Padgett opens ’09 recruiting class (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Navy-Air Force

The Official Site offers complete Navy-Air Force release (pdf)

The Sun’s Don Markus says KNKE’s status vs. Air Force ‘uncertain’

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Niumatalolo keeping Mids ‘together’

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says officials missed calls in Navy’s win

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says injury to KNKE not as severe this time

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says McCain would attend Army/Navy; spend one half on each sideline

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Towson-Northeastern

TOWSON LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Langton to be inducted into Towson Hall of Fame

SALISBURY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Barnes honored by ACFC

The Official Site says loss costs Gulls in poll

MARINERS:

The Official Site introduces Kids Club

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Just a few observations from Pittsburgh:
-Derrick Mason is going to be #1 in my delayed Tuesday Top 7. Is there any doubt?
-Steelers fans are EXTREMELY overrated. They’re not in the game; they’re not knowledgeable AT ALL; and they really don’t rally together AT ALL during the game; with the exception of their towel-waving.
-If the Ravens are a good team; they win a close game like last night’s. They’re not a good team yet.
-If the Ravens remain competitive; they will be kicking themselves for not finishing that win.
-Sam Koch’s shank and Jarrett Johnson’s bone-headed penalty may have been the turning point in the game; but they didn’t have to be. The play calling early in the 2^nd half was very strange; and didn’t set the tone for a solid, ball controlling finish. When you’re ahead by ten points; you ideally use all 3 downs to get ten yards. When you’re trailing by 7; you want to pick up ten yards BEFORE you get to 3^rd down. The play calling last night seemed to be a bit backwards in the 2^nd half.
-It was great to take a trip like that with 60 Ravens fans. Not everyone was on their best behavior; but it was a lot of fun.

-Congratulations to Travis Baltz for being the first Terp to receive Player of the Week honors from the ACC this season. It was well deserved. Alex Wujciak was the best player on the field; but Travis Baltz really helped keep Maryland in the game in the 2^nd quarter especially.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

The loss of both Dawan Landry of Samari Rolle will hurt the Ravens tonight; but as long as Chris McAlister is healthy; the Ravens will be okay. That being said; this game tonight will be particularly tough. I am very concerned about the potential for Joe Flacco to throw a costly interception; and for the offense to fall behind by ten points and force Flacco into throwing situations.

I think tonight will be a good learning experience for Joe; but I don’t know that it will result in a win. I know we will be loud as hell in the upper deck; but I’m not sure that will be enough.

20-10 Steelers.

Sorry.

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

Best of Sunday’s WNST Blogs:

Casey Willett says secondary will have to step up with Landry, Rolle out

Drew Forrester humored by Orioles’ attendance explanation

Drew Forrester thankful Rutgers didn’t run up score on Morgan State

Nestor Aparicio jealous of Brewers fans

Rob Long still enjoying baseball despite Orioles being terrible

Bob Haynie says Terps halfway to 8 wins

RAVENS:

Steelers Official Site offers details for tonight’s game

Beaver County Times’ Mike Bires says Flacco in for ‘shock’ with Pittsburgh trip

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says team knows Flacco will face tough test on road

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley picks Steelers 20-6

The Sun’s David Steele says Newsome seeing vindication early

Aaron Wilson says tonight next chapter in Ravens-Steelers rivalry

Aaron Wilson says trip to Pittsburgh brings things ‘full circle’ for Flacco

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says circumstances surrounding trip to Pittsburgh much different this year than last

ESPN.com’s James Walker says ‘bitterness’ fuels Ravens-Steelers

SI’s Peter King thinks Ravens will have tough with Steelers, Titans back to back

SI’s Adam Duerson picks Ravens 24-13

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Guthrie goes four innings as Orioles finish season with loss

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says late season swoon makes ’08 season disappointment

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Huff named Most Valuable Oriole

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Walker wants second opinion on elbow

Blue Jays Official Site’s Jordan Bastian says Wells collects 5 RBI’s in win

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Orioles show ‘mixed’ signs in ‘08

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says not signing SS worst decision Orioles made in ‘08

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec gives highest praise to Huff, Markakis, J. Johnson

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Angle top CF in organization

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Trembley can use time away

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Trembley happy with health for Guthrie, Sherrill

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Birds will extend Roberts

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Guthrie successfully proved he’s healthy

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck doesn’t understand why Trembley would stymie pursuit of 50 doubles for Huff, Markakis

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Kranitz thinks pitchers who didn’t use video system made ‘mistake’

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Birds finish season losing 11^th of last 12

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Birds need ‘change’

Carroll County Times’ Rich Dubroff says with loss, Guthrie finishes season 10-12

Carroll County Times’ Rich Dubroff says Huff rallies from bad offseason to become MVO

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says O’s fail to draw 2 million fans for first time in 20 years

The AP says Wells drills two homers in win for Jays

Washington Post’s Marc Carig says Trembley leaning towards keeping Johnson in pen

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Ed Bouchette says defense will be name of game tonight

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Terps-Cavs to be shown on ESPNU

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph wants to limit penalties, improve run blocking

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph not pleased with offense

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Wujciak ‘back’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph will stick with Portis

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph thinks crowd noise was issue for Terps

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph doesn’t think Terps could have rallied from down 18

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Clemson ‘disheartened’ by loss

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Carroll could return this week

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps 26^th in AP Poll, 30^th in Coaches’ poll

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Navarre took leadership roll Saturday

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph wanted to get DHB catches

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Turner ‘strong’ again

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Bowden thought Clemson ‘self-imploded’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell wonders if anyone still calling for Ralph’s job

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens thinks Jordan’s school rushing record safe

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens thinks Terps in Top 25 with win over Virginia

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Terps won thanks to smart halftime adjustments

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Ralph thought win ‘weird’

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler and Greg Schimmel say Scott likely to wear non-contact jersey in practice this week

ESPN.com’s Mark Schlabach and Bruce Feldman think Terps Atlanta-bound

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich lifts Terps to 2^nd in ACC power rankings

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says those outside ACC country ‘not impressed’ with Terps’ win over Clemson

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says better half winning Maryland’s split personality battle

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich credits Terps’ D in win

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Ralph still sees areas where Terps can get better (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Turtle Sports Report’s Jeff Ermann says Terps in ‘very good position’ after Williams’ visit

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Don Markus says KNKE status ‘unclear’ for Saturday’s trip to Air Force

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Mids step closer to EagleBank Bowl

Go Mids’ Matt Zemek says win over Wake ‘top shelf’ for Mids (must subscribe)

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-The wins for Maryland and Navy were absolutely MONUMENTAL this weekend. I can’t say that enough. Congratulations to both; and congratulations to Towson for a solid win over Columbia. I’ll continue my congratulations with my Perry Hall Gators for their stunning win at Hereford. What a remarkable football weekend!

-Is being named the Most Valuable Oriole this season similar to being named the prettiest girl at fat camp? I still won’t root for the name on the back of his jersey; but Aubrey Huff did have a nice season. Thankfully for everyone the nightmare is again over.

-Getting James Padgett should be good for Gary. Combining him with Jordan Williams and Sean Mosley might help this team build something.

I’ll see some of you in a few hours; and talk to the rest of you tomorrow!

-G

I’ll give you my Ravens pick before we head out Monday morning. In the meantime, here are your college picks for the weekend:

Clemson 31, Maryland 28

This is going to be a GREAT game; and the loss won’t hurt Maryland that much. It is more important that Maryland win at Virginia and against Wake Forest at home. They can afford to lose this game and still stay in the ACC mix. They won’t get blown out and they will certainly cover.

Wake 34, Navy 20

Navy got a good win last week against Rutgers; and it will have to last them. Wake is ready for an offensive explosion following their struggles against Florida State; and the Mids will not likely stop them.

Towson 27, Columbia 22

Picking Towson has hurt me the last couple weeks; but getting home should help their confidence. Hopefully the weather will stay nice; because a sloppy running showdown would not suit the Tigers well.

Rutgers 45, Morgan State 17

If the Bears can be within 10 at the half, this counts as a win.

Perry Hall 27, Hereford 20

David Stinebaugh and the Gators owe the Bulls one from their loss last year. They’ll get revenge tonight.

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

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Joe Flacco says he’s ready for first road trip

Drew Forrester struggled to watch Orioles Wednesday night

Casey Willett says Landry grateful for fan support

Mark Mussina wonders if Orioles’ doubles trio is a record

Keith Melchior gives highest Orioles praise to Guthrie, Huff, Markakis

Steven Link picks Ravens 23-14

Ed Frankovic says Ovechkin highlights Caps’ preseason win

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says 3 Birds could reach 50 doubles this weekend

Blue Jays Official Site’s David Singh says Richmond faces Waters to open final series

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Orioles think MASN ‘fulfilling goals’

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says 2009 may be Guthrie’s year to become clubhouse leader

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Montanez top LF in organization

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Orioles have progressed this season

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Jones’ season gives Birds glimpse of what’s coming for future

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Flacco thought first start in Pittsburgh would come in college

The Official Site says Heap thinks Flacco ‘well-equipped’ for first road start

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says D trying to slow down rookie Mendenhall

The Official Site says Wilcox loves blocking for RB tandem

Steelers Official Site’s Bob Labriola breaks down individual matchups Monday night

Steelers Official Site’s Teresa Varley says Hoke ready to make MNF start

Steelers Official Site’s Teresa Varley says Steelers have decided advantage at Heinz Field

The Sun’s Ken Murray says D has ‘swagger back’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens need good tackle play, Heap involvement, and QB pressure to win

5 of 7 Sun analysts pick Steelers

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Landry thought Sunday’s injury ‘scary’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Stover’s misses don’t cause panic

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Suggs back to sacking QB’s

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens happy with QB depth

The Sun’s Ray Frager says Jaworski impressed with Ravens’ O-Line

The AP’s Tom Withers says Browns cleared in McGahee saga

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says secondary will make difference for Ravens against Steelers

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Harbaugh enjoys Flacco’s ‘creativity’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Scott won’t continue trash talk with Ward

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Rolle likely out Monday

The Sun’s Edward Lee says T. Smith, McGahee, Washington, Figurs all practiced

The Sun’s Mike Preston says tough preseason ‘paying off’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Ravens buying into Harbaugh’s ‘team concept’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Ravens not talking much before Steelers game

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says first NFL start won’t be easy for Mendenhall

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says defense lifting offense again

Aaron Wilson says Ravens want to come after Big Ben

Aaron Wilson says NFL found ‘no evidence’ Browns intended to injure McGahee

Aaron Wilson says Landry progressing well

The AP says Sunday’s injury was Landry’s first

ESPN.com’s John Clayton says Steelers might have to blitz more due to injuries

ESPN.com’s James Walker thinks Mendenhall shouldn’t be judged vs. Ravens’ run D

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Steelers’ Hoke thinks teams have ‘mutual respect’ for each other

ESPN.com’s James Walker thinks Mendenhall could face ‘tough night’

Fox Sports’ Alex Marvez says Ravens ‘pretenders’

SI’s Peter King picks Steelers 16-13

Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer picks Steelers 20-16

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco picks Steelers 27-10

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Terps looking for second win over Top 25 team this season

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says lack of prominent non-conference road game prevents Terps from knowing just how good they are yet

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Carroll OUT for Saturday

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says wet field could help Terps’ depleted secondary

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terps practicing in rain

The Sun’s Jeff Barker picks Clemson in ‘shootout’

The Examiner’s Abby Sondak says winning at Clemson will depend on ‘which (Maryland) team shows up’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps know communication will be tough for noisy Clemson trip

Washington Post’s Josh Barr says Maryland still in mix for Hawkins

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Skinner ‘probable’ for tomorrow’s game

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Ralph hoping to improve to 3-1 at Clemson

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Steffy still at least two weeks away from returning

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Moten ‘probable’ tomorrow

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Tigers using 4^th different O-Line in 5 weeks

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps trying to buck trend of bad ACC openers

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens expects Steffy to need more than two weeks to be ready to play

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Carroll missed practice yesterday

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says WR’s have good numbers vs. Tigers

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Terps have to try to slow down Clemson RB tandem again

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Terps ready for hostile environment

Columbia State’s Paul Strelow says Maryland Freshman WR Tyler returns to South Carolina

ESPN.com’s Bruce Feldman picks Terps 35-27

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Tigers have chances to reach milestones vs. Terps

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Green, Turner examples of backups who have thrived in ACC

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Tigers still trying to move past Alabama loss

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Ivey’s return could loom large for Terps (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says LB from Frederick visits campus (must subscribe)

CUTigers says Clemson looking to extend all-time advantage over Terps tomorrow

CUTigers’ Roy Philpott shares Spiller’s thoughts on Maryland matchup (must subscribe)

CUTigers’ Will Vandervort breaks down yesterday’s practice (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS SOCCER:

The Official Site says #2 Terps host #1 Wake tonight

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps-Deacs best athletic event in area

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says ‘game of the year’ likely tonight

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

The Sun’s John Weaver says Terps host Fall event this weekend

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Terps still waiting for word on Jin Soo Kim

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Terps offer Forward from Georgia (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Mids getting lift from kicker Harmon

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Mids need blocking from WR’s

Go Mids’ Chris Rohe introduces enemy Deacons

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

Columbia Official Site previews tomorrow’s trip to Towson

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Tigers hope return home will return them to win column

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

Rutgers Official Site previews tomorrow’s trip to Rutgers

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Bears leading with D

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Coach Hill-Eley thinks game against Rutgers ‘David and Goliath’ matchup

MARINERS:

The Official Site says GM Justice thinks team ‘working tirelessly’ to improve

SWIMMING:

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Phelps trying to re-learn way around Baltimore

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Phelps to appear on cover of multiple cereal boxes

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-If you’re not at the Perry Hall-Hereford game tonight; PLEASE head down to College Park to see the Terps take on Wake Forest in soccer. This is as good as it gets in college soccer; and the atmosphere at Ludwig Field can’t be beat. It is worth the trip; trust me!

-The Orioles’ season will end this weekend. Thank God.

Talk to you tomorrow, as I’ll be blogging during Maryland-Clemson.

-G

We have a new internet service provider here at WNST; so this morning was a bit of a struggle for me to get Crabs and Beer together. There are a few things missing, so I apologize for that.

PLEASE join us tonight. I am honestly conflicted, as I want DESPERATELY to root for the Orioles, but part of me wouldn’t mind if the Rays clinched the AL East tonight. I’m just so sick of seeing the Red Sox and Yankees celebrate. The Rays are a good story. If the Orioles are ever relevant again, I will hate the Rays then; but for now, my hate is directed to Boston and New York.

We will be at the Wharf Rat at 5:30, and then we will be sitting in Section 308. And don’t forget to get on the Steelers bus either.

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

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Nestor Aparicio going to see Orioles tonight

Drew Forrester says Ravens have 60% chance of winning Monday

Lonnie Nelson says local soccer teams continue to succeed

Steven Link thinks Ravens should be able to pressure Steelers

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says bullpen ruins Simon’s first career start

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of Game 2 loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Montanez’s 2 run homer only offense in Game 1 loss

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of Game 1 loss

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Liz tries to avoid sweep tonight vs. Jackson

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Guthrie throwing simulated game today in hopes of making one more start

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Huff nominated for Aaron Award

Rays Official Site’s Bill Chastain says with Game 2 win, Rays’ magic number down to 2

Rays Official Site’s Bill Chastain says Shields gets win for Rays in Game 1

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds can learn from Rays

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says after doubleheader sweep, Birds have now lost 8 straight

The Sun’s Childs Walker says Simon gave up 3 runs over 7 2/3 of Game 2 loss

The Sun’s Kevin Eck thinks Roberts ‘too valuable’ for Birds to trade in offseason

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Nettles top 3B in organization

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Rays’ rally fueled by Longoria’s homer

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Trembley thought Simon ‘more comfortable’ as starter

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Rays can clinch division title tonight

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck ‘nostalgic’ for R. Lopez while watching Simon

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds ‘solid bet’ to not win 70

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Trembley ‘not impressed’ with Olson in Game 1 loss

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Huff ‘surprised’ by Rays’ success

The AP says Rays get first ever doubleheader sweep

Washington Post’s Marc Carig says Walker blew Game 2 lead

Washington Post’s Marc Carig says Guthrie will throw 3 simulated innings today

RAVENS:

The Official Site says Leonhard loves returning punts

The Official Site says Ravens think linemen can’t dance

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ayanbadejo rallying teammates to vote

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens ‘controlling’ ball, clock

The Official Site says Flacco nominated for Rookie of the Week

Steelers Official Site’s Bob Labriola says backup D-Lineman will have to step up vs. Ravens

Steelers Official Site’s Teresa Varley says Keisel will also miss Monday’s game

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Ravens can compete in AFC

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Suggs ‘wants to be’ in Baltimore

The Sun says Parker, Hampton will miss Ravens game

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Ravens want ‘vertical threat’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck wonders how Ravens would be if Favre was QB

Aaron Wilson says ‘small town’ safety Leonhard making most of chance to play while Landry hurt

Carroll County Times’ Haruki Nakamura (yep!) enjoys Tuesday off days

ESPN.com has Ravens 17^th in Power Rankings

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Mendenhall faces ‘huge task’ with Parker out

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph ‘worried’ about pass defense

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says freshmen might not be fazed by Death Valley trip

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terps ‘can score’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph sees Clemson as ‘defining game’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph ‘loves’ Death Valley trip

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph couldn’t afford to redshirt Chism

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Carroll, Moten, Frost all ‘questionable’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Barnes knows defense must improve

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Clemson QB Harper expects criticism

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says lack of secondary depth ‘exposed’ vs. Eastern Michigan

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Tigers’ beat writer Williams thinks injuries hurting Harper

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says pass defense issues are multi-faceted problem

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens explains helmet sticker system

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph considers Clemson amongst most ‘unique’ trips in country

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph has pretty good history vs. Tigers

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ivey could go about 10-15 plays

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says team house suffered small electrical fire

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph compares Terps to pizza toppings

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Portis earning more playing time

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley says games ‘really matter’ now that ACC season kicks off (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says future Terp Ferrara visits campus for EMU (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Sun says former Terp Dixon signs with Wizards

Washington Post’s Ivan Carter says ‘Zards want backcourt depth from Dixon

The Diamondback’s Mark Selig says Goins officially cleared

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Gary visits prospect Kazemi (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Mids have to ‘move on’ from Rutgers win

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Mids agree to four year series with UNLV

Go Mids updates Navy’s 2008 opponents

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s trip to Rutgers

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Tigers open season with Navy

UMES BASKETBALL:

The Official Site updates changes surrounding Hawks

MT. ST. MARY’S BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Edgewood’s Barber commits to Eers

NAVY LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Christian Swezey says Mids still looking for assistant

FIGURE SKATING:

Washington Post’s Amy Shipley says Meissner working with Callaghan in Florida

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I guess I have to root for the Wizards again as Juan Dixon is honestly my hero. I hate rooting for teams from that damn city.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

Drew loves the Tuesday Top 7, and so do I! Here’s my 7…..

7-Ed Reed

He’s not 100 percent; but when he’s near the ball, he’s always a threat to score.

6-Jim Leonhard

How important is it to have veteran secondary depth? We found out Sunday when Landry went down. We had no idea that he would help contribute as much on Special Teams as well.

5-Jared Gaither

He is NOT replacing Jonathan Ogden. But he IS anchoring the most important part of the line. Without him, Joe Flacco may have looked like Ben Roethlisberger on Sunday.

4-Adam Terry

John Harbaugh was VERY complimentary of his Tackles in Monday’s press conference; and he should be. They have been outstanding.

3-Terrell Suggs

What a difference a pass rush makes.

2-Ray Lewis

The hit on Kellen Winslow changed the course of the game. He has again assumed a leadership role.

1-Chris McAlister

From watching last season’s Ravens to this season’s Ravens, there is NO DOUBT who is the most important player on this team. I mean, NO DOUBT. He changes everything. The interception wasn’t even the most important thing he did all day.

So here are my overall standings:

1-Chris McAlister-14 points
2-Le’Ron McClain, Ray Lewis -6 points
3-Terrell Suggs, Jason Brown-5 points
4-Yamon Figurs, Adam Terry-4 points
5-Joe Flacco, Jared Gaither-3 points
6-Haloti Ngata, Jim Leonhard-2 points
7-Derrick Mason, Ed Reed-1 point

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

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Bob Haynie says O-Line leading Ravens

Casey Willett says Ravens ‘not concerned’ with Stover

Casey Willett says McGahee’s eye ‘swollen pretty badly’

Drew Forrester says McClain best Raven thus far

Drew Forrester can’t imagine why you wouldn’t want to go to Pittsburgh Monday night

Rob Long says players were ready to step up for Landry

The Fighting Ungers apologize for picking Browns

Thyrl Nelson has Ravens 11^th in Power Rankings

Marc Bouchard thinks Walker should take out Ward

Bryan Powell says Birds helping Rays win AL East

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Landry ‘expected’ to return from spinal cord concussion in weeks

The Official Site says Harbaugh thinks O-Line success starts with Tackles

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says D wants ‘payback’

The Sun offers numerical evidence of defensive success

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh thinks Landry’s return ‘won’t take too many weeks’

The Sun’s Mike Preston says O-Line ‘answering questions’

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says performance evokes comparisons to Super Bowl team

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says play calling ‘conservative, exotic’

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says ‘aggressiveness’ has lead to scoring for Ravens

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Ravens ‘blamed’ themselves for Landry’s injury

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh ‘comfortable’ with continuing RB by committee process

The Sun’s Mike Preston likes Flacco’s pocket presence

The Sun’s Mike Preston wonders if Browns bothered to watch Ravens game film

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says offense working like ‘clockwork’

The Examiner’s Gary Lambrecht says secondary ‘fragile’

Aaron Wilson says defense wants to ‘feast’

Aaron Wilson says Landry’s stability tests ‘normal’

The AP says Ravens ‘haven’t changed formula’ for winning

ESPN.com’s James Walker relieved Landry will be okay

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens making 4^th quarters ‘look easy’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Suggs’ stock ‘up’

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco gives Ravens ‘B’ for Browns win

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Bass gives up no hits in 4 2/3, but bullpen blows things in loss

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Olson, Simon battle Shields, Talbot in doubleheader tonight

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Mora might end season due to injured hammy

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Birds honor minor league Player of the Year Wieters, Pitcher of the Year Bergesen before last night’s game

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Orioles also honor minor league coaches before game

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Mora doing good work for native Venezuela

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Birds won’t make up Sept. 6 game

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak catches up with former Oriole Hoiles

Rays Official Site’s Bill Chastain says Price takes no-hitter to 5^th as Rays win

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says mistakes on base paths, in field cost Birds in loss

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Bass left after walking bases loaded

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Guthrie to throw simulated game Wednesday, could pitch this weekend

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Rays step closer to clinching in Baltimore

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Bierd gave up 2 runs from Bass’s inherited runners

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Bergesen not going to Fall League because of so many innings pitched

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Bergesen threw 45 pitches in bullpen yesterday

Carroll County Times’ Rich Dubroff says Rays get just three hits in win

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Wieters reached ‘most of his goals’

The AP says Bartlett doubled in game winning run for Rays

Washington Post’s Marc Carig says Trembley thinks base running mistake ‘embarrassing’ in loss

The AP says Sept. 6 game cancelled because A’s, O’s not in playoff race

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews trip to Clemson Saturday

The Official Site offers complete Terps-Tigers release (pdf)

The Official Site says Maryland-Virginia kickoff set for 7pm (I SMELL A ROAD TRIP!)

The Sun’s Matt Bracken recaps weekend for future Terps

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Steffy one of many injured ACC QB’s

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says soft schedule makes Tigers tough to evaluate

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Clemson’s Davis won’t make Maryland ‘guarantee’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Steffy nominated for award thanks to good deeds

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says RB Green thinks Terps have ‘swagger back’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Egekeze ‘never lost confidence’

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Virginia game on ESPNU or ESPN360

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie offers Turner video

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Turner thinks offense ‘finding rhythm’

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says Yates will return for Carolina’s game at Maryland

Washington Post’s Matthew Rennie says not all Tigers fans support Harper

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph wanted offense to take up more time

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph believes ACC Champ will have ‘no letdowns’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps had QB issues before Steffy’s injury

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner outstanding on 3^rd down

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Maryland-Virginia kickoff tailgate-friendly

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps don’t notch awards AGAIN

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens breaks down special teams performance

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says field position important to Ralph when deciding whether or not to defer

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says 3-8 better than 0-5 for Egekeze

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Ralph will have Scott back vs. Clemson

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

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Ralph knows Terps facing ‘big stretch’

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says prospect Ferguson ‘impressed’ by Terps (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Egekeze ‘needed a lift’ to get out of FG slump (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Terps continue pursuit of prospect Kazemi (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Moran returns to school as assistant coach

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Moran hiring gives Terps ‘balance’

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s game against Columbia

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Tigers must stop run to beat Lions

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s trip to Wake

The Official Site offers complete Mids-Deacs release (pdf)

The Official Site says Harmon Groza Player of the Week

Wake Forest Official Site previews Deacs-Mids

Wake Forest Official Site offers complete Navy-Wake release (pdf)

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Mids didn’t panic during losing skid

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Harmon enjoying attention from game winner

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Leftwich honored by conference

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Hill-Eley wants all players performing up to expectations

HOPKINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Kase honored by conference

SALISBURY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Gulls up to 6^th in most recent D3 poll

LOYOLA LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Hounds will open season vs. Irish in Georgia

GOLF:

The Sun says Price, Cook, Zoeller playing Constellation Energy Classic

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I have NO IDEA why anyone wouldn’t be on the trip to see the Ravens play the Steelers next Monday. I am more excited for this trip than I can even explain. I actually think I’m breaking out the purple pajama pants since we’re going to be driving through the night and heading straight to work. Can’t wait!

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

Drew says that if the Ravens remain healthy, they will win games this season. But it’s really not even that complicated. This team will win games just as long as the SECONDARY remains healthy. The healthy secondary has made a HUGE difference; as the Ravens already have more wins over divisional opponents this season than they did all of last year.

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

Best of Sunday’s WNST Blogs:

Nestor Aparicio wants to take trip to Pittsburgh

Drew Forrester wonders why Rays would call up Price but Orioles won’t call up Wieters

Drew Forrester says Browns didn’t show ‘much heart’

Casey Willett gives me a hand (Here are the links to the stories from Cleveland’s papers. This is why they are not linked in my blog today.)

Casey Willett says stadium ‘went crazy’ for Flacco

Nestor Aparicio says Rolle has ‘tingling’ in right arm

Chris Pika says Ravens part of odd start to NFL season

Alex Thomas pleased with how Ravens held Cribbs down

Alex Thomas offers pregame photos from yesterday

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Flacco remained ‘calm’ despite miscues in win

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Suggs gets two sacks in win

The Official Site’s Sam Angell says McAlister, Reed, Rolle all get picks in win

Browns Official Site’s Zac Jackson says Ravens’ 21-0 third quarter run doomed Browns

Browns Official Site’s Steve King says Harrison scores only TD for Cleveland

Browns Official Site analysts give game balls to Harrison, D. Jackson, J. Thomas

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens allow just 27 yards of total offense in 2^nd half

The Sun’s Mike Preston gives high praise to RB’s, D-Line, secondary

The Sun’s Mike Preston says offense wearing defenses down with ‘frenetic pace’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Flacco 13-19 for 129 yards in win

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Ravens good AND bad in win

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Landry sustained ‘spinal cord concussion’ before half, will be evaluated further

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Leonhard gets involved on defense and special teams in win

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Ravens now in first place after win

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says game changed when Lewis hit Winslow, McAlister collected INT

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Landry taken to Shock Trauma after collision

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says McGahee scored Ravens’ first TD

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Flacco threw first picks of career in 1^st half

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Figurs, F. Washington missed game

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Browns played without McGinest, Steinbach, Stallworth, S. Jones

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Landry kept overnight for further examination

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says McGahee suffered cut on eyelid

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck puzzled by ‘pitch back bomb’ play

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says Ravens drop Browns to 0-3

Aaron Wilson says McClain’s TD put Ravens ahead for good

Aaron Wilson says Flacco joins Elway, Leaf as QB’s who started career 2-0

Aaron Wilson says Landry injury reminded Leonhard of injury to former teammate Everett

Carroll County Times’ Ryan Chell says McClain rushed for 66 yards, first 2 TD’s of career

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Ravens ‘inspired’ by Landry injury in 2^nd half

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says McGahee gained 64 yards on 15 carries in win

The AP’s David Ginsburg says Ravens got 2 scores in 50 seconds to flip script in win

The AP says Landry ‘never lost consciousness’ after hit

ESPN.com’s James Walker thinks Ravens-Steelers will be ‘a doozy’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens remain ‘under radar’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens turn Browns’ season into ‘nightmare’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says 52 proves he’s ‘still relevant’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Browns ‘dared’ Flacco to beat them

SI.com’s Peter King has Ravens in Top 15

CBS Sports’ Clark Judge happy to see Harbaugh’s early success

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Waters gives up 5 over 5 2/3 in loss

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Birds act like ‘fans’ in Yankee Stadium finale

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Guthrie to be skipped in rotation again

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Price making first start for Rays tonight against Bass, Orioles

Yankees Official Site’s Bryan Hoch says Pettitte, Rivera make impact as Yankees close Stadium with win

Rays Official Site’s Brittany Ghiroli says Rays try to clinch AL East this week in Baltimore

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 54k see Yanks win final game at Stadium

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Yanks got win 4,133 in Stadium history

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Davis top SS in organization

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Yankee Stadium ceremony similar to ’91 event at Memorial Stadium

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says ‘no regrets’ for public funding of honored Yards

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Trembley went with veterans in Stadium finale

The AP says Yanks avoid playoff elimination with win

ESPN.com Page 2’s Jim Caple names OPACY 2^nd most ‘important’ sports venue

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terps now shift focus to Clemson

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Carroll, Skinner, Ivey could all return for Clemson game

The Examiner gives ‘kudos’ to Turner for Saturday’s win

The Examiner’s Abby Sondak says Clemson coming off thrashing over S.C. State

Frederick News-Post’s Greg Swatek says Terps working hard to get ball in DHB’s hands

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Moten’s injury status ‘not good’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says DHB moved up career receiving lists in win

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says EMU Coach Genyk ‘surprised’ by how Eagles moved ball

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph not pleased with celebrating

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Barnes knows defense needs to improve

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph again frustrated with young players

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says numbers not good for pass defense

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Portis’ drive ‘impressive’, ‘unusual’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Clemson also put up 50 spot this weekend

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps moving in right direction after big win

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Perez could be option to replace Moten

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says EMU game amongst biggest offensive days in Ralph’s tenure

ESPN.com’s Mark Schlabach has Terps in Nashville, Bruce Feldman has Terps in DC

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps have ‘shown significant improvement’ offensively

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says DHB thinks Terps ‘know what they’ve got to do to win’ ACC

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says defense still needs to improve

The Diamondback’s Jeff Newman says Portis, Green ‘broke out’ in win over EMU

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley says day later; Ralph no happier with defensive performance (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Don Markus says Navy ‘rejuvenated’ after Rutgers win

Go Mids’ Matt Zemek says Rutgers win will stay with Mids

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-A healthy Travis Ivey, Nolan Carroll, and Terrell Skinner will help the Terps’ defense; but the Adrian Moten loss will hurt. They NEED to find ways to pressure Cullen Harper next week.

-Nice to see the Orioles took in the festivities this weekend. It’s a shame no one besides Chris Waters was told they actually had to play games as well.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

Here are my weekend football picks:

Ravens 16, Browns 13

The Ravens do not yet have the vertical game necessary to open this game up; but they DO have the secondary necessary to hold the Browns down. If Joe Flacco can continue to avoid turnovers, the Ravens will be in good shape to move to 2-0 in the division.

Maryland 28, Eastern Michigan 6

Again, I don’t quite have the faith in the Terps to open this game up the way they probably SHOULD; but I don’t think they will fall all over themselves like they did in the first two weeks. I wouldn’t be surprised if Ralph ended up deactivating Da’Rel Scott before the game starts, as he will need to be 100 percent when the Terps visit Clemson.

Towson 21, Coastal Carolina 20

If this game were in Towson, I’d pick the Tigers to win by a more comfortable margin; but there will be some troubles remaining focused in Myrtle Beach. Sean Schaeffer will need to get back on track; and I imagine he will-to a certain extent. The Tigers’ defense can hopefully use a 4^th quarter stand to get revitalized for the next few weeks.

Navy 38, Rutgers 30

I think what we are learning about this Rutgers team is that Greg Schiano is just NOT that good of a coach. He was a GREAT coach with Brian Leonard and Ray Rice in his backfield; he was a pretty good coach with just Ray Rice. With both gone, I really think we’re learning that Greg Schiano is not the super-coach many people thought him to be. A healthy Eric Kettani would make a MAJOR difference for the Mids; but I just expect Ken Niumatalolo to get back to a healthy dose of the Triple option, and the Knights; even with a number of fans in attendance in Naptown; will not have an answer for that.

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

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Joe Flacco says Ravens had ‘really good couple days’ of practice this week

Drew Forrester says I want everyone to go to Orioles game Wednesday (and I do!)

Casey Willett says McGahee will get ‘limited playing time’

The Fighting Ungers say Drew, Such, KZ all like Ravens this week

Keith Melchior says Birds’ pitching ‘sucked’ this year

Gary Quill makes Laurel picks for today

Ken Zalis wants to get you on a bus to Sunday’s game

Patrick Johnson says Neto to stay with Blast

Ed Frankovic says Caps rookies crush Flyers rookies in exhibition

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s David Singh says Cintron’s two run single only offense in loss

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s David Singh says Liz faces Pavano to open final series at Yankee Stadium

The Official Site’s David Singh says Cabrera won’t return due to elbow sprain

Blue Jays Official Site’s Jordan Bastian says Litsch guts out 6 innings in win

Yankees Official Site’s Bryan Hoch says many Yankees taking everything in during final days of Stadium

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Birds lose 19^th of last 24

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Roberts, Huff, Markakis all just short of 50 doubles

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Miller couldn’t hold lead

The Sun’s Ray Frager says Ripken again to be part of TBS’ postseason coverage

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Torres best 2^nd baseman in organization

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds must use ‘patience’ to get more out of Bedard deal than Astros got from G. Davis deal

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says holding MacPhail responsible for much of losing stretch ‘not fair’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Olson tough luck loser

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Cabrera’s MRI clean

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Orioles hopeful Guthrie can make Tuesday start

The AP says Bautista homered in win for Jays

SI’s Gennaro Filice drops Orioles to 26^th in power rankings

RAVENS:

The Official Site says Nakamura having ‘great season so far’

The Official Site’s Kevin Byrne says ‘NFL did right thing’ with Ravens-Texans postponement

The Official Site says DC Ryan not looking past Browns despite offensive struggles thus far

The Official Site says Ravens celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says J. Brown up to Rogers task

Browns Official Site’s Zac Jackson says TOP winner has won last six Browns-Ravens contests

Browns Official Site’s Zac Jackson says Cribbs limited in yesterday’s practice; Stallworth, McGinest still not practicing

The Sun’s Childs Walker says loss to Colts most memorable game in stadium’s 10 year history

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Rosburg knows how dangerous Cribbs is

The Sun’s Mike Preston says R. Lewis, J. Lewis renew rivalry Sunday

All Sun writers except Edward Lee pick Ravens to beat Browns

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens need to get vertical, create turnovers, and avoid J. Cribbs to win

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Flacco’s development could help fans forget about D. Anderson

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens plan to use backs ‘by committee’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ayanbadejo, Gregg, Ivy did not practice

The Sun’s Mike Preston says McAlister needs to pay attention for ‘double move’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Rice shows New York pride in locker room

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Washington, Martin, D. Williams, Figurs, Heap all practiced

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says defense would love to stay on sidelines

Aaron Wilson says Ravens want to keep J. Lewis bottled up

Aaron Wilson says Ravens will use ‘directional kicking’ to keep ball away from Cribbs

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Tony Grossi says Dawson wants another ‘season changing’ win in Baltimore

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Tony Grossi says McKinney might be pressed into action due to McKinney’s shoulder

Akron Beacon Journal’s George M. Thomas says Browns want to rattle Flacco

ESPN.com’s John Clayton says Ravens could send Browns into ‘crisis mode’

ESPN Sunday Countdown analysts split on Ravens-Browns pick

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Lewis-Lewis showdown ‘old school’

Fox Sports’ Peter Schrager picks Ravens 17-14

SI’s Peter King picks Browns 23-16

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Ralph wants to get ‘better’ vs. Eastern Michigan

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Tate gives Terps ‘sure handed’ safety

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Scott still ‘questionable’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terps working on no-huddle D

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph to use Tate on short punt returns

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Egekeze remains kicker

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Franklin thinks Portis’ fumble should have been ruled incomplete

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Portis usually has pass option

The Examiner’s Abby Sondak says Meggett ‘never wants to lose again’

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says Terps try to stop run first

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps trying to drop ‘inconsistent’ tag

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell picks Terps 38-13

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says young man named after Cole Field House attended practice yesterday

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says EMU QB Schmitt won’t play

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph thinks Egezeke kicked ‘very well’ this week

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says EMU writer picks Terps 31-10

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Gronkowski will impact more as health improves

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Chism, Herald expected to play

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph thinks Costa ‘best offensive lineman’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Scott has practiced last two days

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps struggle when opponents score first

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens breaks down why offensive players where certain numbers

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Green trying to bounce back from ‘bad August’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens picks Terps 31-13

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich wonders if Terps ‘learned their lesson’ from MTSU loss

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich picks Terps 14-10

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Ralph using music to ‘motivate’ Terps

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Terps need to run with hurry up offenses

Terrapin Times’ Claire Knudsen says Oquendo brings steady hands (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Terps hope Egekeze Novak-like (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem checks in on QB Brown’s visit (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Ralph wants Terps prepared for no-huddle (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Jeff Ermann says Va. RB Williams visited for Cal win (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Stainbrook rejoins lax staff

Inside Lacrosse’s Christian Swezey thinks Navy’s Moran could be headed to College Park

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Mids extend partnership with CBS, CBS College Sports to broadcast games

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Kettani not participating in contact drills

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Navy ran few triple options vs. Duke

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Deliz has ‘worked hard’ to return

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Tigers want to start up front to beat Chanticleers

SALISBURY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Bookard honored

HORSE RACING:

The Examiner’s Josh Kowalkowski says emotions run high at Anne Arundel slots debate

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Drew is right. I would LOVE to have you come out to Wednesday’s game and sit with us in the $1 seats. I might be out of the tickets I paid for; but we’re talking about ONE DOLLAR SEATS! Send me an email (glenn@wnst.net) if you want to come out; as we plan on having a lot of fun thanking the guys who HAVE worked hard for this team.

Talk to you tomorrow from College Park.

-G