Archives for December 2006

‘But that doesn’t mean Bills fans can’t start pondering what a Buffalo defense would look like without its No. 1 tackler and heart and soul (Fletcher); its No. 1 defensive back who has finally lived up to the Playmaker nickname he gave to himself a few years ago (Clements); and one of its steadier and more reliable defensive linemen (Kelsay).’

‘The offense has been the revelation. Since Billick fired offensive coordinator and buddy Jim Fassel Oct. 17 (the team was 4-2 but the offense was sputtering) and began calling the plays himself, the Ravens have jumped from 28th to 17th in total offense.’

‘”In my mind, I can’t get off of it,” Losman continued. “I tend to dwell on the bad things … I was depressed the last three days. Don’t call me … don’t talk to me … I really don’t want to talk to anybody about anything right now.”‘

As backup, Ravens’ Anderson steps up (Baltimore Sun)

Hiring Roman a key to holding the line (Baltimore Sun)

Is this the best Ravens team ever? (Baltimore Examiner)

J. Lewis still keys offense (Carroll County Times)

Injury bug bites another Ravens lineman (Carroll County Times)

‘The move was made to make room on the 53-man roster for wide receiver George Wilson who was activated from the practice squad.’

‘Shelton sustained the concussion while blocking during a kickoff return against Miami two weeks ago and missed last weekend’s game against Tennessee.’

‘Protect Losman: With a defense as dominant as Baltimore’s getting a ground game going won’t be easy. That means Buffalo will be in a healthy number of passing situations. A quick passing game, along with some plays designed to have Losman deliver the ball on the move will hopefully aid Buffalo’s front line in keeping the Ravens’ bounty of pass rushers at bay. This may be the tallest task the Bills offense will face this season.’

‘"George is a great guy on a football team," said Jauron. "He’s got a lot of energy. He gives you everything he’s got every single day. He does nothing but work at the game and I think he’s a terrific teammate and player. He really just needs to catch a break and get on the field. And hopefully in his future we’ll give him a chance to do that and he’ll play."’

‘Ravens 17 Bills 16.’

‘After just one season, Jauron’s doctrine has translated into the kind of success Buffalo hasn’t seen in a while.’

‘”I still have nightmares the last three nights,” Losman said. “I can’t stop thinking about the plays that we missed in this last game in particular, but all season. And what brought us to this situation where we had to win these last two games. Why? Why couldn’t we pick two other games earlier this season that we pulled out? So, those situations have just been eating, eating away at all of us right now. But it’s going to be up to us if we’re going to do something about it.”‘

‘The Block award typically is chosen by each team’s training staff, and goes to a player who exemplifies a commitment to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. The recipient symbolizes professionalism, great strength, dedication and serves as a community role model for others.’

‘Obviously, Young is not polished. Obviously he has a long way to go. Still, I was awed by the way he played that game. Forget Michael Vick. Comparing Young to Vick is apples and oranges. Young is a passer first, a runner second. He made tight throws in the wind against the Bills. It would have been even better if his receivers didn’t have the drops (granted, it’s hard to catch the ball in the wind, too). Young by himself is worth the price of admission.’

‘Levy’s ability to lead with an open hand instead of a closed fist has allowed Jauron and his assistants to flourish. In turn, players such as J.P. Losman and Lee Evans and Aaron Schobel have begun to realize their vast potential because the atmosphere, while demanding, is also positive.’

‘Spikes also founded the 51 Ways charity with Giants linebacker Carlos Emmons. The charity supports the families of children diagnosed with cancer and/or blood disorders by providing financial, spiritual and physical resources.’