NFL preseason: Washington Redskins at Baltimore Ravens
Two quarterbacks a bit under the microscope is probably the biggest storyline heading into tonight’s preseason opener behind neighbors Washington and Baltimore.
The Ravens have opened as 3-point favorites on WagerWeb.com.
One would think there’s no pressure on Baltimore rookie Joe Flacco after he led the Ravens to the AFC title game as a rookie last year. But he reportedly has not been at all sharp in camp. And Baltimore simply must do better in the passing game this year to stay a Super Bowl contender. The Ravens averaged 175.5 yards passing last season, fifth-worst in the NFL.
Flacco has thrown a high number of interceptions in camp, which is uncharacteristic of the 2008 first-round pick. Last season, the rookie threw five interceptions in his last 11 regular-season games.
Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron isn’t worried.
“I’d be concerned if he weren’t throwing some interceptions, because now’s the time to test your limits,” Cameron said. “The only way your quarterback can grow is to try to squeeze some balls in at this time of year to find the limits – find the limits of the receiver, find the limits of the defender, find the limits of your protection.”
Flacco is scheduled to play at least the first quarter. Troy Smith will quarterback the second and third quarters, and John Beck will finish. The Ravens are expected to be without their top three receivers. Mark Clayton will miss at least two preseason games with a hamstring injury. Derrick Mason dislocated his finger Tuesday. And Demetrius Williams is nursing a hamstring injury. Star linebacker Terrell Suggs also won’t play, while safety Ed Reed is unlikely to go.
Meanwhile, Redskins QB Jason Campbell was shopped by the team all offseason, with Washington attempting to get both Jay Cutler and Mark Sanchez. Campbell is in the final year of his contract, so it’s make-or-break time. He is expected to play only one to two possessions tonight.
For sure out for Washington are WR Santana Moss (hamstring), G Rueben Riley (ankle), RT Jeremy Bridges (ankle), RB Anthony Alridge (toe), RG Randy Thomas (knee). DT Albert Haynesworth and RB Clinton Portis are expected to be healthy scratches.
NFL Betting at WagerWeb.com
(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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