Ray Rice (1 Viewer)

[eefflrat]

With news that Willis returned to practice, but ran with the second string is there a realistic chance that Ray Rice will be the starter in Baltimore?

McClain has bulked up and looks to be the fullback/short yardage guy, and McGahee is in the last year of his deal, who thinks Ray Rice can really produce in that offense?

 

[bcr8f]

I hope so but doubt he will this soon. I hope he does sometime this year.

 

[todisco1]

McGahee is coming off injury. Rice *might* get to start but it's way too early to tell -- once McGahee is running full speed again we may know more... or they may just go with whoever is the hot hand from week to week.

 

[Darker Knight]

McGahee is coming off injury. Rice *might* get to start but it's way too early to tell -- once McGahee is running full speed again we may know more... or they may just go with whoever is the hot hand from week to week.

That seems to be the MO of Cam Cameron.....

 

[Banger]

That whole backfield has the makings of a fantasy nightmare that I want no part of.....

 

[nittanylion]

Ray Rice is a decent enough RB, and finds himself in a potentially great situation, and it's kind of an axiom around here that talent + opportunity = success...

...that being said, it's the talent portion of the equation where there's an issue, and before folks jump on me, maybe skill set is a better term than talent, because I'm not criticizing his talent - he does what he's capable of doing, very well...

...but Ray Rice is not an every down back. He's not, and never has been, a tough inside runner, and he looks the part of an RBBC, albeit the more exciting part. He's not Felix Jones, by any means, and Jerious Norwood comparisons aren't fair either...maybe Ahmad Bradshaw(?)...but he's more that 'lightning' side of the classic 'Thunder and Lightning' Backfield than he is the 'thunder', and I just don't see him ever carrying the load without having some complimentary backs spelling him situationally, and significantly.

A nice piece to have as an RBBC, especially in Survivor Formats, and he should get the overwhelming lion's share of receptions from the Ravens backfield, however many that will be, so IMO, his value lies in as a member of an RB2BC in a PPR Format, preferrably best ball Survivor, where you don't have to pick and choose his spots for yourself.

 

[Hipple Long Ware & Peete]

Did Shanahan sign with the Ravens?

 

[jwb]

Ray Rice is a decent enough RB, and finds himself in a potentially great situation, and it's kind of an axiom around here that talent + opportunity = success...

...that being said, it's the talent portion of the equation where there's an issue, and before folks jump on me, maybe skill set is a better term than talent, because I'm not criticizing his talent - he does what he's capable of doing, very well...

...but Ray Rice is not an every down back. He's not, and never has been, a tough inside runner, and he looks the part of an RBBC, albeit the more exciting part. He's not Felix Jones, by any means, and Jerious Norwood comparisons aren't fair either...maybe Ahmad Bradshaw(?)...but he's more that 'lightning' side of the classic 'Thunder and Lightning' Backfield than he is the 'thunder', and I just don't see him ever carrying the load without having some complimentary backs spelling him situationally, and significantly.

A nice piece to have as an RBBC, especially in Survivor Formats, and he should get the overwhelming lion's share of receptions from the Ravens backfield, however many that will be, so IMO, his value lies in as a member of an RB2BC in a PPR Format, preferrably best ball Survivor, where you don't have to pick and choose his spots for yourself.

In college, Ray Rice was a serious workhorse, who took it up the middle more often than not. I realize college isn't the NFL, but saying he's not an every down back or a tough inside runner is way off the mark.

 

[zadok]

He's not, and never has been, a tough inside runner,

 

[todisco1]

He's not, and never has been, a tough inside runner,

Seriously. Horrible information there.

 

[gonzobill5]

That whole backfield has the makings of a fantasy nightmare that I want no part of.....

Rice, McGahee, and McClain combined for about 500 carries, 2000 yards and 18 TDs plus another 75 catches for 600+ yards. I think this backfield will be a duo this year and if so that's some pretty solid production to split two ways.

 

[Scooby1974]

That whole backfield has the makings of a fantasy nightmare that I want no part of.....

Rice, McGahee, and McClain combined for about 500 carries, 2000 yards and 18 TDs plus another 75 catches for 600+ yards. I think this backfield will be a duo this year and if so that's some pretty solid production to split two ways.

Which two of McGahee, McClain, and Rice will comprise your "duo"? Who is the odd man out?

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Ray Rice is a decent enough RB, and finds himself in a potentially great situation, and it's kind of an axiom around here that talent + opportunity = success...

...that being said, it's the talent portion of the equation where there's an issue, and before folks jump on me, maybe skill set is a better term than talent, because I'm not criticizing his talent - he does what he's capable of doing, very well...

...but Ray Rice is not an every down back. He's not, and never has been, a tough inside runner, and he looks the part of an RBBC, albeit the more exciting part. He's not Felix Jones, by any means, and Jerious Norwood comparisons aren't fair either...maybe Ahmad Bradshaw(?)...but he's more that 'lightning' side of the classic 'Thunder and Lightning' Backfield than he is the 'thunder', and I just don't see him ever carrying the load without having some complimentary backs spelling him situationally, and significantly.

A nice piece to have as an RBBC, especially in Survivor Formats, and he should get the overwhelming lion's share of receptions from the Ravens backfield, however many that will be, so IMO, his value lies in as a member of an RB2BC in a PPR Format, preferrably best ball Survivor, where you don't have to pick and choose his spots for yourself.

In college, Ray Rice was a serious workhorse, who took it up the middle more often than not. I realize college isn't the NFL, but saying he's not an every down back or a tough inside runner is way off the mark.

Nittanylion is usually solid with his analysis, but this one is off the mark here.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

...but Ray Rice is not an every down back. He's not, and never has been, a tough inside runner, and he looks the part of an RBBC, albeit the more exciting part. He's not Felix Jones, by any means, and Jerious Norwood comparisons aren't fair either...maybe Ahmad Bradshaw(?)...but he's more that 'lightning' side of the classic 'Thunder and Lightning' Backfield than he is the 'thunder', and I just don't see him ever carrying the load without having some complimentary backs spelling him situationally, and significantly.

What are you basing that on? He had a high amount of carries at Rutgers and is a very tough inside runner. He's "small", but not really a speed back at all. He's got great vision, balance and deceptive strength that allows him to run inside effectively. He's built alot like Emmit, Curtis Martin and Portis and they were all full time backs and effective inside runners.

 

[Matt Waldman]

Rice and Peerman long-term. Rice and McGahee short-term, provided McGahee stays healthy.

I am actually writing a piece that will be available next week on the home page that discusses Rice in a bit more detail as a part of a series on incorporating risk into your draft strategy for competitive leagues. Rice is one of the six backs I profile who has a chance to fit into one of the strategies I outline.

Rice was one of the three best backs in 2008's rookie class and I think in a few years we're going to be pretty impressed with the quality of runners that come from that group. There's at least four backs we really didn't hear from as rookies that will make some noise in the next two years. Rice had a very quiet 787 yards (rush/pass) last year...I don't think he'll be as easy to overlook in '09.

 

[nittanylion]

LMOA, here comes the inevitable Witch Hunt I expected. I rattled off this Post quickly before I went into meetings for the day, and I usually read and re-read my Posts before Posting. I did a poor job of phrasing my opinion, and look where it's gotten me!

I'm still in the weeds with my day, and probably won't get around to responding at length until later this evening, but I'm not the type to just post something and disappear when contrary viewpoints present themselves.

For the record, I LOVED Ray Rice in College at Rutgers. I have a special place in my heart for Rutgers, going back to my Penn State days (late 80's/early90's) when we played them on a regular basis, when I was involved with strength/conditioning/rehab for the Program. Not to mention I've paid VERY close attention to the Rutgers Program over the last few years since their Coach has made it quite clear that he'd like to be the Coach to follow in JoePa's footsteps at Penn State. Love him too, and I hope it happens. Back to Rice, I had VERY high expectations in regards to his NFL Career, tempered by the fact that I had to wait and see how his obvious Collegiate skills transferred to the NFL...

...but when Players leave College, and enter the NFL, I generally put their past behind them, and focus only on what they show at the NFL Level, so if I mispoke in regards to 'isn't and never has been a tough inside runner', I'm strictly referring to my opinion as to what I've seen of him so far with the carries he's had in the NFL. Just want to clarify that. He was an outstanding all-around Collegiate RB. But that was then, and this is the 'what have you done for me lately' NFL. We all know it's a whole different ball game. I'm basing my opinion and commentary on what I saw from Rice through Training Camp '08, and his Rookie Season only.

Although I focus on the NFL as a whole, I'm partial to the Redskins, where I also have some inside scoop on both the Management and Team side of things, but living here in Maryland, I have Ravens Coverage being shoved down my throat on a daily basis. I've watched a lot of Ray Rice, as has everyone else who made a significant Draft Pick Investment in him, and I WANT him to do well, too. In his NFL Carries, I've watched him display agility/quickness, vision and quality skills as a receiver out of the backfield. I've watched him perform well on sweeps and screens, and also on draw plays - all where he had time to read and react, rather than taking on quick initial contact and using power and leg drive in conjunction with wiggle to get out of the soup. While I haven't seen him display Game-breaking speed, he's certainly not a plodder by any means, and during the early part of last Season, I at least saw a WILLINGNESS to at least TRY to run inside. I also saw him struggle with that part of his Game, and as the Season wore on, I saw what I feel was a lack of confidence by him in his ability to do so, a little loss of aggression, and to some degree I saw the Coaching Staff seem to agree with that assessment and design his play calls to play to his strengths.

What that has led me to believe is that AT THIS TIME, he's not shown me - YET - that he can be a 'complete' Bell Cow RB at the NFL Level (Peterson, Jackson, Westbrook, Portis, Gore, Forte, MJD, etc), capable of carrying a full load on his own, and until such time as he proves that, he's likely to be paired with an RB who can do well the things he's so far struggled with. If we put the Rutgers Game Film back on the shelf where it belongs, because he's plays in the NFL now, and focus only on his NFL Carries, I'm confident my opinion bears itself out. Rice is not yet consistently effective enough as a slasher gaining tough inside yardage for me to see him as the complete NFL RB package.

Certainly, that can change. I don't doubt his desire, his 'want to', if you will, and I'll continue to maintain high hopes that he'll continue to develop his NFL Game. When he begins to show that he can consistently and effectively run between the tackles and be called upon to take carries regardless of down and distance situations, I'll savor the moment that he has 'arrived'. He's certainly worked hard in the OffSeason in the weight room to develop his trunk and base to try and develop more power, and that's a reason for optimism, although we'll have to see how that affects his 'quicks'. It's rare that any Player can strengthen that area without it having an effect on agility/quickness. One thing he appears to excel at is his vision, and that's a great attribute for an RB to have that is more inherent and difficult to teach.

There are many 'good', but incomplete RB's starting in the NFL (Jacobs, Barber, Turner, to name a few), in the NFL and at this time, that's what I feel Rice is (I'm not comparing his Game to those Players - just conveying the idea of complete vs incomplete - he'd actually be a great complimentary RB to those guys). I still think he's got the potential to be more than that, but I need to see it on the field first. Right this minute, I see him as what I've described - a nice piece, who will be at his most effective in a Fantasy Lineup as part of an RB2BC in PPR Formats, especially Survivor.

Well now, as often happens, I started to Post with the intention of coming back later, and lost track of time again.

Just one man's opinion, and from the looks of things, largely against the stream of consciousness, but I'm basing this on what I've seen, and not just making some random speculation based on nothing. What Rice did in College doesn't matter any more. He's in the NFL now, and if we watch the same Game Film, I just don't see consistent effectiveness in that dimension of his Game that will get a grossly high number of uncontested carries. The Ravens philosophy, style of play and personnel call for a bruising grinder as a critical part of the Offensive Game Plan. Rice has some things to work on before he's ready to assume that mantle, in my opinion based on what I've seen thus far.

I'm pulling for Rice as much as the next guy. Time will tell.

 

[tdmills]

Certainly, that can change. I don't doubt his desire, his 'want to', if you will, and I'll continue to maintain high hopes that he'll continue to develop his NFL Game. When he begins to show that he can consistently and effectively run between the tackles and be called upon to take carries regardless of down and distance situations, I'll savor the moment that he has 'arrived'. He's certainly worked hard in the OffSeason in the weight room to develop his trunk and base to try and develop more power, and that's a reason for optimism, although we'll have to see how that affects his 'quicks'. It's rare that any Player can strengthen that area without it having an effect on agility/quickness. One thing he appears to excel at is his vision, and that's a great attribute for an RB to have that is more inherent and difficult to teach.

Not sure I understand you here. So he has been developing his lower body in the offseason(which was already extremely big for his size) and that will effect his quickness.Squating = a boost to explosiveness

 

[bcr8f]

Ray Rice is a decent enough RB, and finds himself in a potentially great situation, and it's kind of an axiom around here that talent + opportunity = success...

...that being said, it's the talent portion of the equation where there's an issue, and before folks jump on me, maybe skill set is a better term than talent, because I'm not criticizing his talent - he does what he's capable of doing, very well...

...but Ray Rice is not an every down back. He's not, and never has been, a tough inside runner, and he looks the part of an RBBC, albeit the more exciting part. He's not Felix Jones, by any means, and Jerious Norwood comparisons aren't fair either...maybe Ahmad Bradshaw(?)...but he's more that 'lightning' side of the classic 'Thunder and Lightning' Backfield than he is the 'thunder', and I just don't see him ever carrying the load without having some complimentary backs spelling him situationally, and significantly.

A nice piece to have as an RBBC, especially in Survivor Formats, and he should get the overwhelming lion's share of receptions from the Ravens backfield, however many that will be, so IMO, his value lies in as a member of an RB2BC in a PPR Format, preferrably best ball Survivor, where you don't have to pick and choose his spots for yourself.

I don't agree. The same was said about Slaton last year and Rice is a similar back-good runner, good receiver out of the backfield.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

LMOA, here comes the inevitable Witch Hunt I expected. I rattled off this Post quickly before I went into meetings for the day, and I usually read and re-read my Posts before Posting. I did a poor job of phrasing my opinion, and look where it's gotten me!

I'm still in the weeds with my day, and probably won't get around to responding at length until later this evening, but I'm not the type to just post something and disappear when contrary viewpoints present themselves.

For the record, I LOVED Ray Rice in College at Rutgers. I have a special place in my heart for Rutgers, going back to my Penn State days (late 80's/early90's) when we played them on a regular basis, when I was involved with strength/conditioning/rehab for the Program. Not to mention I've paid VERY close attention to the Rutgers Program over the last few years since their Coach has made it quite clear that he'd like to be the Coach to follow in JoePa's footsteps at Penn State. Love him too, and I hope it happens. Back to Rice, I had VERY high expectations in regards to his NFL Career, tempered by the fact that I had to wait and see how his obvious Collegiate skills transferred to the NFL...

...but when Players leave College, and enter the NFL, I generally put their past behind them, and focus only on what they show at the NFL Level, so if I mispoke in regards to 'isn't and never has been a tough inside runner', I'm strictly referring to my opinion as to what I've seen of him so far with the carries he's had in the NFL. Just want to clarify that. He was an outstanding all-around Collegiate RB. But that was then, and this is the 'what have you done for me lately' NFL. We all know it's a whole different ball game. I'm basing my opinion and commentary on what I saw from Rice through Training Camp '08, and his Rookie Season only.

Although I focus on the NFL as a whole, I'm partial to the Redskins, where I also have some inside scoop on both the Management and Team side of things, but living here in Maryland, I have Ravens Coverage being shoved down my throat on a daily basis. I've watched a lot of Ray Rice, as has everyone else who made a significant Draft Pick Investment in him, and I WANT him to do well, too. In his NFL Carries, I've watched him display agility/quickness, vision and quality skills as a receiver out of the backfield. I've watched him perform well on sweeps and screens, and also on draw plays - all where he had time to read and react, rather than taking on quick initial contact and using power and leg drive in conjunction with wiggle to get out of the soup. While I haven't seen him display Game-breaking speed, he's certainly not a plodder by any means, and during the early part of last Season, I at least saw a WILLINGNESS to at least TRY to run inside. I also saw him struggle with that part of his Game, and as the Season wore on, I saw what I feel was a lack of confidence by him in his ability to do so, a little loss of aggression, and to some degree I saw the Coaching Staff seem to agree with that assessment and design his play calls to play to his strengths.

What that has led me to believe is that AT THIS TIME, he's not shown me - YET - that he can be a 'complete' Bell Cow RB at the NFL Level (Peterson, Jackson, Westbrook, Portis, Gore, Forte, MJD, etc), capable of carrying a full load on his own, and until such time as he proves that, he's likely to be paired with an RB who can do well the things he's so far struggled with. If we put the Rutgers Game Film back on the shelf where it belongs, because he's plays in the NFL now, and focus only on his NFL Carries, I'm confident my opinion bears itself out. Rice is not yet consistently effective enough as a slasher gaining tough inside yardage for me to see him as the complete NFL RB package.

Certainly, that can change. I don't doubt his desire, his 'want to', if you will, and I'll continue to maintain high hopes that he'll continue to develop his NFL Game. When he begins to show that he can consistently and effectively run between the tackles and be called upon to take carries regardless of down and distance situations, I'll savor the moment that he has 'arrived'. He's certainly worked hard in the OffSeason in the weight room to develop his trunk and base to try and develop more power, and that's a reason for optimism, although we'll have to see how that affects his 'quicks'. It's rare that any Player can strengthen that area without it having an effect on agility/quickness. One thing he appears to excel at is his vision, and that's a great attribute for an RB to have that is more inherent and difficult to teach.

There are many 'good', but incomplete RB's starting in the NFL (Jacobs, Barber, Turner, to name a few), in the NFL and at this time, that's what I feel Rice is (I'm not comparing his Game to those Players - just conveying the idea of complete vs incomplete - he'd actually be a great complimentary RB to those guys). I still think he's got the potential to be more than that, but I need to see it on the field first. Right this minute, I see him as what I've described - a nice piece, who will be at his most effective in a Fantasy Lineup as part of an RB2BC in PPR Formats, especially Survivor.

Well now, as often happens, I started to Post with the intention of coming back later, and lost track of time again.

Just one man's opinion, and from the looks of things, largely against the stream of consciousness, but I'm basing this on what I've seen, and not just making some random speculation based on nothing. What Rice did in College doesn't matter any more. He's in the NFL now, and if we watch the same Game Film, I just don't see consistent effectiveness in that dimension of his Game that will get a grossly high number of uncontested carries. The Ravens philosophy, style of play and personnel call for a bruising grinder as a critical part of the Offensive Game Plan. Rice has some things to work on before he's ready to assume that mantle, in my opinion based on what I've seen thus far.

I'm pulling for Rice as much as the next guy. Time will tell.

Thanks for the extensive reply, Nittany.I do have to re-address your original comment though:

...but Ray Rice is not an every down back. He's not, and never has been, a tough inside runner, and he looks the part of an RBBC, albeit the more exciting part. He's not Felix Jones, by any means, and Jerious Norwood comparisons aren't fair either...maybe Ahmad Bradshaw(?)...but he's more that 'lightning' side of the classic 'Thunder and Lightning' Backfield than he is the 'thunder', and I just don't see him ever carrying the load without having some complimentary backs spelling him situationally, and significantly.

Can you explain the bolded part? I don't quite get how someone who was familiar with the RU program and Rice's final season for the Scarlet Knights could state this to be true.I believe that this statement is the source of what you're claiming to be a witch hunt. I don't believe it is, as I'm just wondering how you came to this conclusion.

Thanks.

 

[PrimUomo]

Didn't Rice share carries with Brian Leonard at Rutgers?

I still see McClain getting a lot of carries (especially while being lined up at FB) and Rice expects a definite increase in carries and McGahee should still be involved unless he stinks.

I see the Ravens running slightly less than last year (Flacco should be less of a liability after another year in the system) but still around 400-450 times. Rice should end up with some of both McClain's and McGahee's carries.

 

[super sleeper]

Nittanylion-

You can't possibly be a close follower of the Rutgers program and come to the conclusion Schiano has "made it clear" he wants to coach Penn St. I defy you to find one example of Schiano indicating any desire to leave Rutgers. I'm not saying it won't happen, but I think your perception of the situation is clouded by wishful thinking, which is very common amongst Penn St. fans, bloggers, and sportswriters throughout PA.

As for Rice, a couple of things. I've discussed within Rutgers circles the speed training that both Brian Leonard and Ray Rice undertook upon leaving Rutgers in preparation for their respective drafts. Despite being very different backs, both were looking to improve their draft lot by increasing speed. Recall how both surprised many people here when they registered their 40 times. And sure enough, it helped move both up into the second round. But both suffered during their rookie years by not being as strong or explosive as they were in college. They both lost significant weight to get faster, and I think it hurt them as pros. Leonard got hurt last year, but I am curious to see what he does at his natural weight, 238, up from 226 his rookie year. Similarly, Rice is now back to 207 up from the 195-199 he came into the league at.

 

[nittanylion]

Hi Pasq,

I thought I addressed this with this paragraph:

...but when Players leave College, and enter the NFL, I generally put their past behind them, and focus only on what they show at the NFL Level, ***so if I mispoke in regards to 'isn't and never has been a tough inside runner', I'm strictly referring to my opinion as to what I've seen of him so far with the carries he's had in the NFL. Just want to clarify that.*** He was an outstanding all-around Collegiate RB. But that was then, and this is the 'what have you done for me lately' NFL. We all know it's a whole different ball game. ***I'm basing my opinion and commentary on what I saw from Rice through Training Camp '08, and his Rookie Season only.***

Hey, I absolutely LOVE watching College Football, and it's great fun speculating about who's going to make it in the NFL, but since my buddies Bloom, Faletti, Waldman and Company, and those who have come before them, have yet to come up with an algorithm that's an absolutely 100% accurate predictor for NFL Success, it still remains partly a guessing game (although our heroes here are making yearly advances that make the guesses more and more educated, rather than speculative, which is nice), as to who's going to be a successful Pro. For absolutely inexplicable reasons, some early Round Picks bust, and some late round Picks bloom. As much Player research as I might do leading up to the Draft, (and admittedly, since I started hanging out with Bloom and Faletti, I've done a lot less), I spend the better part of the Month of May forgetting all of it!!!

College success gets you an audition for the NFL - it's what you do against NFL-Caliber Competition that determines your NFL Shelf Life, and if your splash is a ripple or a shock wave.

Watching Rice in '08, I saw flashes of NFL Ability that were confined to specific aspects of his Game, that I've already mentioned. Those flashes became steady beams of light as the Season went on. As I mentioned before, early in the Season, I saw a WILLINGNESS to TRY and duplicate some of the things he did well in College against NCAA Level Competition, specifically related to being a slashing inside runner, but the results, and what I saw as his reaction to them, were less than impressive. An analogy would be a swimmer who'd always competed at meets in indoor pools, running up to the starting blocks of his first outdoor meet, and dipping his toe in the water and saying "Damn, that water's COLD!!!" It appeared to me that his confidence and aggressiveness, in relation to executing slashing inside runs, deteriorated, and that the Coaching Staff preferred to cast him in a role where he could excel at what he excelled at - which, considering they had McGahee and McClain on the Roster as well, was, for Season '08 only, probably good Coaching.

Good OffSeason preparation for Season '09 will involve both Rice and the Coaches exploring the difficulties he had with those aspects of his game, diagnosing his reasons for struggling, and working on improving those things. I don't know what the Coaches are doing, but I do know that Rice has worked hard to improve the areas of his physique (Trunk, Core and Quads) that should improve his Power/Explosiveness when he hits the hole. Hopefully, he'll have success. Success will breed Confidence, which should breed Aggressiveness. If all of those things click, he has a chance to become a more complete (every down) NFL RB...and we all will rejoice.

The 'Witch Hunt' comment was strictly tongue-in-cheek. As soon as I re-read what a hastily posted, I knew I was asking for it, which is why I've attempted to offer an expanded explanation of my earlier comments.

tdmills: The work he's doing on improving his Trunk/Core/Quads is designed to improve his Power/Explosiveness, which is designed to make him more effective when hitting those clogged up running games *(Edit: running LANES)*, and Powering Through the junk. Agility/Quickness is a different skill set, and increasing muscle mass in the Trunk/Core/Quads CAN (not will - CAN), have a negative effect on Quickness/Agility. How much of an effect (and it may well be a negligible amount), it has remains to be seen. Personally, I think he CAN sacrifice some of his tremendous Quickness/Agility for more Power/Explosiveness. I think that's what we'd all like to see. Will we? Time will tell.

bcr8f: I see some similarities between Slaton and Rice. The big difference, IMO, is that the two NFL Teams they play for run different Blocking Schemes, and have different philosophies in regards to running the football. I think Slaton would struggle with some of the schematics of the Ravens Offense as well, particularly powerful slashing inside runs with frontline defenders clogging up the Rushing Lanes. I think Rice could excel in the Texans Offense, but only so many NFL Teams run that kind of a Zone Blocking Scheme, where, if you get the reads down correctly, open lanes carry you into the second level of Defense where a Player can use his quickness and agility to outmaneuver Back 7/8 Defenders and break off long gains. In '08, Rice got bogged down in the soup. Successful RB's within that Power Running philosophy don't. The O-Line delivers an initial wallop to the Front Line Defenders, and the RB delivers a wallop of his own behind them, breaking through the wall with sheer brute force, along with a good dose of sharp elbows and knees. We're all hoping that in '09 that Rice and the Coaches make the necessary adjustments to help him excel with an aspect of his Game, that in my opinion, is so far lacking.

By chance, Rice wound up on the Ravens. While he plays on that Team, under those Coaches, espousing their Offensive Running Game Philosophy, for him to carry the load, and relegate his TeamMates to minimal carries, everyone involved in his development still have some work to do.

My Posts haven't been 'Ray Rice stinks' in any way. I think he's a talented Player, and I WANT him to succeed. Given what I've seen, I think he's still limited, and until he and the Coaches work with his limitations (which it appears that at least HE'S doing), I can't give him a ringing endorsement as anything more than a significant Role Player who has an opportunity to be successful in only certain FF Scoring Formats and League Structures (PPR Heavy, and Survivor Leagues).

Again, it's just my opinion. I don't think I can explain myself any more clearly.

 

[jwb]

Again, it's just my opinion. I don't think I can explain myself any more clearly.

You did fine - nice explaination.

 

[gregjcross]

Hi Pasq,I thought I addressed this with this paragraph:...but when Players leave College, and enter the NFL, I generally put their past behind them, and focus only on what they show at the NFL Level, ***so if I mispoke in regards to 'isn't and never has been a tough inside runner', I'm strictly referring to my opinion as to what I've seen of him so far with the carries he's had in the NFL. Just want to clarify that.*** He was an outstanding all-around Collegiate RB. But that was then, and this is the 'what have you done for me lately' NFL. We all know it's a whole different ball game. ***I'm basing my opinion and commentary on what I saw from Rice through Training Camp '08, and his Rookie Season only.***Hey, I absolutely LOVE watching College Football, and it's great fun speculating about who's going to make it in the NFL, but since my buddies Bloom, Faletti, Waldman and Company, and those who have come before them, have yet to come up with an algorithm that's an absolutely 100% accurate predictor for NFL Success, it still remains partly a guessing game (although our heroes here are making yearly advances that make the guesses more and more educated, rather than speculative, which is nice), as to who's going to be a successful Pro. For absolutely inexplicable reasons, some early Round Picks bust, and some late round Picks bloom. As much Player research as I might do leading up to the Draft, (and admittedly, since I started hanging out with Bloom and Faletti, I've done a lot less), I spend the better part of the Month of May forgetting all of it!!!College success gets you an audition for the NFL - it's what you do against NFL-Caliber Competition that determines your NFL Shelf Life, and if your splash is a ripple or a shock wave.Watching Rice in '08, I saw flashes of NFL Ability that were confined to specific aspects of his Game, that I've already mentioned. Those flashes became steady beams of light as the Season went on. As I mentioned before, early in the Season, I saw a WILLINGNESS to TRY and duplicate some of the things he did well in College against NCAA Level Competition, specifically related to being a slashing inside runner, but the results, and what I saw as his reaction to them, were less than impressive. An analogy would be a swimmer who'd always competed at meets in indoor pools, running up to the starting blocks of his first outdoor meet, and dipping his toe in the water and saying "Damn, that water's COLD!!!" It appeared to me that his confidence and aggressiveness, in relation to executing slashing inside runs, deteriorated, and that the Coaching Staff preferred to cast him in a role where he could excel at what he excelled at - which, considering they had McGahee and McClain on the Roster as well, was, for Season '08 only, probably good Coaching.Good OffSeason preparation for Season '09 will involve both Rice and the Coaches exploring the difficulties he had with those aspects of his game, diagnosing his reasons for struggling, and working on improving those things. I don't know what the Coaches are doing, but I do know that Rice has worked hard to improve the areas of his physique (Trunk, Core and Quads) that should improve his Power/Explosiveness when he hits the hole. Hopefully, he'll have success. Success will breed Confidence, which should breed Aggressiveness. If all of those things click, he has a chance to become a more complete (every down) NFL RB...and we all will rejoice.The 'Witch Hunt' comment was strictly tongue-in-cheek. As soon as I re-read what a hastily posted, I knew I was asking for it, which is why I've attempted to offer an expanded explanation of my earlier comments.tdmills: The work he's doing on improving his Trunk/Core/Quads is designed to improve his Power/Explosiveness, which is designed to make him more effective when hitting those clogged up running games *(Edit: running LANES)*, and Powering Through the junk. Agility/Quickness is a different skill set, and increasing muscle mass in the Trunk/Core/Quads CAN (not will - CAN), have a negative effect on Quickness/Agility. How much of an effect (and it may well be a negligible amount), it has remains to be seen. Personally, I think he CAN sacrifice some of his tremendous Quickness/Agility for more Power/Explosiveness. I think that's what we'd all like to see. Will we? Time will tell.bcr8f: I see some similarities between Slaton and Rice. The big difference, IMO, is that the two NFL Teams they play for run different Blocking Schemes, and have different philosophies in regards to running the football. I think Slaton would struggle with some of the schematics of the Ravens Offense as well, particularly powerful slashing inside runs with frontline defenders clogging up the Rushing Lanes. I think Rice could excel in the Texans Offense, but only so many NFL Teams run that kind of a Zone Blocking Scheme, where, if you get the reads down correctly, open lanes carry you into the second level of Defense where a Player can use his quickness and agility to outmaneuver Back 7/8 Defenders and break off long gains. In '08, Rice got bogged down in the soup. Successful RB's within that Power Running philosophy don't. The O-Line delivers an initial wallop to the Front Line Defenders, and the RB delivers a wallop of his own behind them, breaking through the wall with sheer brute force, along with a good dose of sharp elbows and knees. We're all hoping that in '09 that Rice and the Coaches make the necessary adjustments to help him excel with an aspect of his Game, that in my opinion, is so far lacking.By chance, Rice wound up on the Ravens. While he plays on that Team, under those Coaches, espousing their Offensive Running Game Philosophy, for him to carry the load, and relegate his TeamMates to minimal carries, everyone involved in his development still have some work to do.My Posts haven't been 'Ray Rice stinks' in any way. I think he's a talented Player, and I WANT him to succeed. Given what I've seen, I think he's still limited, and until he and the Coaches work with his limitations (which it appears that at least HE'S doing), I can't give him a ringing endorsement as anything more than a significant Role Player who has an opportunity to be successful in only certain FF Scoring Formats and League Structures (PPR Heavy, and Survivor Leagues).Again, it's just my opinion. I don't think I can explain myself any more clearly.

I own both Mcgahee and Rice... dont think Rice has overtaken Mcgahee at this point and has a little bit to prove. But I am most afraid that the Ravens coaching staff will *yet again* overwork Ray Rice between May and September 1st like they did last year during training camp, giving him like 80 percent of camp carries instead of rotating him with some college free agents. Peerman being around should help the situation, but i knew he was in trouble last year before the season even started. Combined with the stress of being a rookie, over work can hurt.

 

[zdaddy]

Did Shanahan sign with the Ravens?

No...First he wouldn't sign, he would be hired. Second, Shanny just showed the rest of the league how to do it.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Thanks as always for the discussion Nittanylion.

Based on what I'm hearing, this could be Rice's year.

McGahee had knee surgery
McClain added weight
Rumors exist that McClain will be moved towards more of a FB role than as a RB - or at least specialize in short yardage
Rice has added weight, but in the right way - bulking up to carry the load better should he be the #1 option
Rice is now running as the first RB in OTAsIt's all June info of course, but the above sure feels like things are pointing towards Rice having a good shot at winning the starting tailback job in Baltimore in August.

 

[Ripleys]

Thanks as always for the discussion Nittanylion.

Based on what I'm hearing, this could be Rice's year.

McGahee had knee surgery
McClain added weight
Rumors exist that McClain will be moved towards more of a FB role than as a RB - or at least specialize in short yardage
Rice has added weight, but in the right way - bulking up to carry the load better should he be the #1 option
Rice is now running as the first RB in OTAsIt's all June info of course, but the above sure feels like things are pointing towards Rice having a good shot at winning the starting tailback job in Baltimore in August.

Also to consider, the Ravens have one of the toughest SOS for WRs and QBs, and one of the easiest for RBs. The Ravens are gonna be a running team this year, and Rice could be that cowbell.

 

[Terps2002]

Thanks as always for the discussion Nittanylion.

Based on what I'm hearing, this could be Rice's year.

McGahee had knee surgery
McClain added weight
Rumors exist that McClain will be moved towards more of a FB role than as a RB - or at least specialize in short yardage
Rice has added weight, but in the right way - bulking up to carry the load better should he be the #1 option
Rice is now running as the first RB in OTAsIt's all June info of course, but the above sure feels like things are pointing towards Rice having a good shot at winning the starting tailback job in Baltimore in August.

Also to consider, the Ravens have one of the toughest SOS for WRs and QBs, and one of the easiest for RBs. The Ravens are gonna be a running team this year, and Rice could be that cowbell.

As opposed to the last ten years???

 

[JPeso]

Thanks as always for the discussion Nittanylion.

Based on what I'm hearing, this could be Rice's year.

McGahee had knee surgery
McClain added weight
Rumors exist that McClain will be moved towards more of a FB role than as a RB - or at least specialize in short yardage
Rice has added weight, but in the right way - bulking up to carry the load better should he be the #1 option
Rice is now running as the first RB in OTAsIt's all June info of course, but the above sure feels like things are pointing towards Rice having a good shot at winning the starting tailback job in Baltimore in August.

Also to consider, the Ravens have one of the toughest SOS for WRs and QBs, and one of the easiest for RBs. The Ravens are gonna be a running team this year, and Rice could be that cowbell.

As opposed to the last ten years???

Or bellcow."More cowbell!"

 

[therokie0070]

my prediction is Mcgahee will get hurt and rice and peerman will splite carries with mcclain being a red zone/short yard beast making neither rice or peerman worth much this year!!

 

[mdog1967]

my prediction is Mcgahee will get hurt and rice and peerman will splite carries with mcclain being a red zone/short yard beast making neither rice or peerman worth much this year!!

Sleep on Rice and you make kick yourself the rest of the year. I like what I know about Peerman but would not count on much production if any this year. McClain clearly looks to be playing fullback in 2009 with some vulturous goal line carries. I think Rice approaches 300 carries, 1200 yrds rushing and 30-45 receptions with another 400yrds. 12 total TD's.

 

[Two Deep]

Rice will be very similar to MJD in the coming years.

 

[TLEF316]

Rice will be very similar to MJD in the coming years.

not even close to being as explosive as MJD. I like Rice's potential and may keep him for this upcoming season (its a toss up between him and Felix Jones) but he's no MJD.

 

[inzanitee]

my prediction is Mcgahee will get hurt and rice and peerman will splite carries with mcclain being a red zone/short yard beast making neither rice or peerman worth much this year!!

Sleep on Rice and you make kick yourself the rest of the year. I like what I know about Peerman but would not count on much production if any this year. McClain clearly looks to be playing fullback in 2009 with some vulturous goal line carries. I think Rice approaches 300 carries, 1200 yrds rushing and 30-45 receptions with another 400yrds. 12 total TD's.

No way does Rice hit 330+ touches this year and 12 TDs. Not a chance IMO, and I like Rice a lot.

 

[Cookiemonster]

Rice will be very similar to MJD in the coming years.

not even close to being as explosive as MJD. I like Rice's potential and may keep him for this upcoming season (its a toss up between him and Felix Jones) but he's no MJD.

Agree, but he is very similar to Priest Holmes or Emmit Smith IMO. Vision was as good as any college back I've seen, and for not being very fast or very strong, he is great at getting everything he can out of every run and is one of the best at making himself small and hard to tackle.

 

[The_Man]

I am a huge Ravens homer and I can tell you all that IMO, it's simply not possible to make an accurate prediction yet on what Rice's role will be.

There are just too many variables still in play. But if you do have to decide now about Rice, I would say he's likely to be much more productive this year than last.

# 1 - He's no longer a rookie. He understands the offense better, has definitely worked out and bulked up in the off-season, and the Ravens love the prospect of throwing to him out of the backfield this year. Plus, the O line was decent last year and will probably be better this year, particularly if Yanda is healthy and returns to RG.

#2 - McClain is back to Fullback. Out of necessity, he did great at tailback last year, but the Ravens had Lo Neal at FB. McClain is now the only FB on the roster. He might get carries in a single back formation, but he's the FB when Rice/McGahee are in there. So that's a lot fewer carries for him.

#3 - Who knows about McGahee? The Ravens had to keep him this year because of his cap number, but he's not part of their future. However, Willis knows that too, and has been working hard this off-season and showing up at OTAs, which he never did before.

I could see Rice splitting carries, but I can also see him becoming the designated third-down RB. Unfortunately, if you saw any Ravens games last year, you know that the third-down RB, along with both TEs, was usually blocking on pass plays and not catching balls. This whole situation is still up in the air. I think it will be much more clear in the preseason, but it's way too early to know now what's going to happen.

 

[Bill S]

Another Ravens homer here.

I love McGahee for this year. I think Rice will be a decent fill-in back in PPR formats, but not in standard formats unless McGahee goes down.

- This is probably McGahee's last year as a Raven. This means two things. A) The Ravens will run in him into the ground as he is not in the future plans. B) McGahee will be playing for a new deal, so he will have no problem being run into the ground.

- McClain is going to get a lot less carries this year. He is playing fullback more. Also, while he is an adequete runner, McGahee is better. The only reason McCalain got so many carries last year was because Willis being injured. McClain will be playing a true fullback role this year with Lorenzo Neal departing.

- Rice will still be in the rotation, but will be more of a 3rd down back type and will not be used consistent enough to warrant a high fantasy selection and shouldn't be counted on for more of a bye-week replacment.

- I don't expect Peerman to factor much this year, but I do expect him to split with Ray Rice in 2010.

I like McGahee as a RB2 and think he is an absolute steal at this point. I just got him in the 11th round of my early Dynasty draft.

 

[Traders2001]

Another Ravens homer here.I love McGahee for this year. I think Rice will be a decent fill-in back in PPR formats, but not in standard formats unless McGahee goes down.- This is probably McGahee's last year as a Raven. This means two things. A) The Ravens will run in him into the ground as he is not in the future plans. B) McGahee will be playing for a new deal, so he will have no problem being run into the ground.- McClain is going to get a lot less carries this year. He is playing fullback more. Also, while he is an adequete runner, McGahee is better. The only reason McCalain got so many carries last year was because Willis being injured. McClain will be playing a true fullback role this year with Lorenzo Neal departing.- Rice will still be in the rotation, but will be more of a 3rd down back type and will not be used consistent enough to warrant a high fantasy selection and shouldn't be counted on for more of a bye-week replacment.- I don't expect Peerman to factor much this year, but I do expect him to split with Ray Rice in 2010.I like McGahee as a RB2 and think he is an absolute steal at this point. I just got him in the 11th round of my early Dynasty draft.

I dont agree with you .McGahee will be injured by week 2 or 3 .Rice can handle the bulk of the work ( remember what was being said about Steve Slaton beginnig of last season , to small 5' 9'' 203 pounds ) .Rice was listed 5' 8'' 205 pounds last season but he supposively bulked up for this season so let says he is aropund 220 pound , he is big enough to carry the load.I see Rice with 1000yards rushing - 400 receiving and 9 total TD's.

 

[Bill S]

Another Ravens homer here.I love McGahee for this year. I think Rice will be a decent fill-in back in PPR formats, but not in standard formats unless McGahee goes down.- This is probably McGahee's last year as a Raven. This means two things. A) The Ravens will run in him into the ground as he is not in the future plans. B) McGahee will be playing for a new deal, so he will have no problem being run into the ground.- McClain is going to get a lot less carries this year. He is playing fullback more. Also, while he is an adequete runner, McGahee is better. The only reason McCalain got so many carries last year was because Willis being injured. McClain will be playing a true fullback role this year with Lorenzo Neal departing.- Rice will still be in the rotation, but will be more of a 3rd down back type and will not be used consistent enough to warrant a high fantasy selection and shouldn't be counted on for more of a bye-week replacment.- I don't expect Peerman to factor much this year, but I do expect him to split with Ray Rice in 2010.I like McGahee as a RB2 and think he is an absolute steal at this point. I just got him in the 11th round of my early Dynasty draft.

I dont agree with you .McGahee will be injured by week 2 or 3 .Rice can handle the bulk of the work ( remember what was being said about Steve Slaton beginnig of last season , to small 5' 9'' 203 pounds ) .Rice was listed 5' 8'' 205 pounds last season but he supposively bulked up for this season so let says he is aropund 220 pound , he is big enough to carry the load.I see Rice with 1000yards rushing - 400 receiving and 9 total TD's.

Injuries can't be predicted or assumed.What are your projections for Rice if McGahee stays healthy?

 

[TLEF316]

i think Rice has good feet, good vision, good toughness. But he's not an elite athlete. Obviously, he's probably not going to have the career of Emmit Smith or Curtis Martin, but i could see him being succesful with a similar style.

 

[Traders2001]

Another Ravens homer here.I love McGahee for this year. I think Rice will be a decent fill-in back in PPR formats, but not in standard formats unless McGahee goes down.- This is probably McGahee's last year as a Raven. This means two things. A) The Ravens will run in him into the ground as he is not in the future plans. B) McGahee will be playing for a new deal, so he will have no problem being run into the ground.- McClain is going to get a lot less carries this year. He is playing fullback more. Also, while he is an adequete runner, McGahee is better. The only reason McCalain got so many carries last year was because Willis being injured. McClain will be playing a true fullback role this year with Lorenzo Neal departing.- Rice will still be in the rotation, but will be more of a 3rd down back type and will not be used consistent enough to warrant a high fantasy selection and shouldn't be counted on for more of a bye-week replacment.- I don't expect Peerman to factor much this year, but I do expect him to split with Ray Rice in 2010.I like McGahee as a RB2 and think he is an absolute steal at this point. I just got him in the 11th round of my early Dynasty draft.

I dont agree with you .McGahee will be injured by week 2 or 3 .Rice can handle the bulk of the work ( remember what was being said about Steve Slaton beginnig of last season , to small 5' 9'' 203 pounds ) .Rice was listed 5' 8'' 205 pounds last season but he supposively bulked up for this season so let says he is aropund 220 pound , he is big enough to carry the load.I see Rice with 1000yards rushing - 400 receiving and 9 total TD's.

Injuries can't be predicted or assumed.What are your projections for Rice if McGahee stays healthy?

650yards rushing - 300 receiving and 6 total TD's.But McGahee cant stay healthy .

 

[inzanitee]

(KFFL) Mike Duffy, of BaltimoreRavens.com, reports Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said he believes RB Ray Rice could be an every-down back this season because he added bulk to his upper body during the offseason. "Not that he wasn't a tackle-breaker last year - he was a tackle-to-tackle runner at Rutgers, that was what he did - but he's come a long way," Harbaugh said. "Now, people see him as a third-down back because of the success he had last year, but I don't think we have any question that he can be an every-down back."

 

[Uruk-Hai]

(KFFL) Mike Duffy, of BaltimoreRavens.com, reports Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said he believes RB Ray Rice could be an every-down back this season because he added bulk to his upper body during the offseason. "Not that he wasn't a tackle-breaker last year - he was a tackle-to-tackle runner at Rutgers, that was what he did - but he's come a long way," Harbaugh said. "Now, people see him as a third-down back because of the success he had last year, but I don't think we have any question that he can be an every-down back."

I wouldn't try to connect any dots based on what Harbaugh's saying here. From all reports, everything he's saying is fine - but don't project "but I don't think we have any question that he can be an every-down back." as a statement that Rice is starting or getting the heaviest workload.Read The Man's post above - he's spelled it out pretty well as things stand here on June 5.

For myself, I think Rice is going to end up with the bulk of the carries. But that's banking on something happening with Willis (injury, etc..) & I'm not willing to bet a plug nickle on it. When McGahee was "right" last year he looked very good & was the best RB on the team.

If I were in a redraft league that's drafting today, I'd take Rice - but not as one of my first 3 RBs and/or before about Round Eight.

 

[Joe Paterno]

(KFFL) Mike Duffy, of BaltimoreRavens.com, reports Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said he believes RB Ray Rice could be an every-down back this season because he added bulk to his upper body during the offseason. "Not that he wasn't a tackle-breaker last year - he was a tackle-to-tackle runner at Rutgers, that was what he did - but he's come a long way," Harbaugh said. "Now, people see him as a third-down back because of the success he had last year, but I don't think we have any question that he can be an every-down back."

I wouldn't try to connect any dots based on what Harbaugh's saying here. From all reports, everything he's saying is fine - but don't project "but I don't think we have any question that he can be an every-down back." as a statement that Rice is starting or getting the heaviest workload.Read The Man's post above - he's spelled it out pretty well as things stand here on June 5.

For myself, I think Rice is going to end up with the bulk of the carries. But that's banking on something happening with Willis (injury, etc..) & I'm not willing to bet a plug nickle on it. When McGahee was "right" last year he looked very good & was the best RB on the team.

If I were in a redraft league that's drafting today, I'd take Rice - but not as one of my first 3 RBs and/or before about Round Eight.

 

[gonzobill5]

That whole backfield has the makings of a fantasy nightmare that I want no part of.....

Rice, McGahee, and McClain combined for about 500 carries, 2000 yards and 18 TDs plus another 75 catches for 600+ yards. I think this backfield will be a duo this year and if so that's some pretty solid production to split two ways.

Which two of McGahee, McClain, and Rice will comprise your "duo"? Who is the odd man out?

I think the Ravens intend it to be McGahee and Rice this year - but that's clearly dependent on Willis' health. In leagues that draft late in the summer, I'll be targeting those two assuming Willis is still healthy. Though I might be inclined to wait it out and see who falls.

 

[Blackjacks]

I've said before that I would rather have a good running back in a great situation than a great rb in a good situation. Rice fits this mold. I believe he is a ver good rb in a grsat situation if he can get the fulltime gig.

I could look for him to have a same impact as Matt Forte did last year if given the chance

talentwise Rice > Forte IMO

 

[Terps2002]

#2 - McClain is back to Fullback. Out of necessity, he did great at tailback last year, but the Ravens had Lo Neal at FB. McClain is now the only FB on the roster. He might get carries in a single back formation, but he's the FB when Rice/McGahee are in there. So that's a lot fewer carries for him.

Just a minor correction, Jason Cook is also a FB on the roster. The expectation is for him to make the roster as a true FB and special teams player. I would say right now McClain is the starting FB, short yardage back, goal line back and could see a few carries later in games when the Raven's decide to play keep away with the ball and the opposing team's D is tired.I think Rice will get every opportunity to have the ball as much a possible. He is more of the all around back Cameron likes to incoporate then any other back on the roster. Unless he shows vast improvement in the short yardage area, I think McClain could vulture the TD's and keep Rice's fantasy value on the average side, especially in TD heavy leagues.You never know what to expect out of McGahee, the biggest knock on him right now is he is in the coaching staff's doghouse since they've come to town. Clearly in the playoffs he was the Ravens best back, especially in the AFC Championship game.

 

[az_prof]

(KFFL) Mike Duffy, of BaltimoreRavens.com, reports Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said he believes RB Ray Rice could be an every-down back this season because he added bulk to his upper body during the offseason. "Not that he wasn't a tackle-breaker last year - he was a tackle-to-tackle runner at Rutgers, that was what he did - but he's come a long way," Harbaugh said. "Now, people see him as a third-down back because of the success he had last year, but I don't think we have any question that he can be an every-down back."

Coaches say alot of things, but in this case I wouldn't downplay this. When you put this statement together with the fact that Rice is running First team in practice, it is hard to maintain the fiction that McGahee is the starter anymore. While Harbough's statement doesn't mean that Rice will be the featured back this year, it is a very positive sign that the team envisions him as much more than a COP as some around here have argued.

 

[bcr8f]

(KFFL) Mike Duffy, of BaltimoreRavens.com, reports Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said he believes RB Ray Rice could be an every-down back this season because he added bulk to his upper body during the offseason. "Not that he wasn't a tackle-breaker last year - he was a tackle-to-tackle runner at Rutgers, that was what he did - but he's come a long way," Harbaugh said. "Now, people see him as a third-down back because of the success he had last year, but I don't think we have any question that he can be an every-down back."

Coaches say alot of things, but in this case I wouldn't downplay this. When you put this statement together with the fact that Rice is running First team in practice, it is hard to maintain the fiction that McGahee is the starter anymore. While Harbough's statement doesn't mean that Rice will be the featured back this year, it is a very positive sign that the team envisions him as much more than a COP as some around here have argued.

He is saying he will get opportunities and it's up to Rice to take and keep the job. I think McGahee will get chances too but he isn't the long term answer. If Rice falters McClain could be back at tailback in my opinion.I'm a Rice owner so I don't think he will be.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

Unless he shows vast improvement in the short yardage area, I think McClain could vulture the TD's and keep Rice's fantasy value on the average side, especially in TD heavy leagues.You never know what to expect out of McGahee, the biggest knock on him right now is he is in the coaching staff's doghouse since they've come to town. Clearly in the playoffs he was the Ravens best back, especially in the AFC Championship game.

McClain may pass - or at least join - McGahee in the Ravens' doghouse. He reportedly showed up to OTAs in less-than-stellar shape (read: fat) & he's also less than thrilled about going to FB, if I'm reading between the lines correctly. Willis actually showed up & apparently looked in pretty good shape. McClain needs to watch himself here for, as important as he was to the Ravens last year (& don't underestimate that), he's not an elite talent & if he pisses off the coaches enough he's gonna find himself on the scrap heap. A healthy McGahee & an improved Rice (& OL) can provide a more-than-adequate running attack without him. As a Ravens fan, of course, I hope all three are successful - each getting 175-200 touches for 700-800 yds & half a dozen TDs apiece. They each bring a different skillset that Cam can use effectively.