Baltimore Ravens clicking & getting healthy at right time
By Jason Marcum
The defending Super Bowl champion Baltimore Ravens need to get their offensive weapons back and healthy enough to play soon if last week’s preseason game vs. the Atlanta Falcons is any indicator of how much they’re going to struggle.
Wide receiver Torrey Smith is their top target and has been their only receiving threat when the starters have played. He’s caught all four passes thrown in his direction and has accounted for 70 percent of Joe Flacco’s receiving yards (101 of 144) through tow preseason games. The Ravens have to find someone who can take some of the pressure, and attention from defenses, off of Smith, and tight end Ed Dickson could be the answer.
He’s practicing for the first time since injuring his hamstring two weeks ago, and thinks he’ll be ready for the opener vs. the Denver Broncos:
"“I always feel good about my chances,” Dickson said. When you’re dealing with an injury, it’s tough because dealing with a muscle pull you don’t want to come back too soon and aggravate it.”"
Dickson was expected to replace Dennis Pitta (hip fracture) as the team’s No. 1 tight end before he got hurt.
Two players who were recently signed and are excepted to contribute are Wide receiver Brandon Stokley and tight end Dallas Clark are expected to get an extended number of snaps after signing contracts last week. Stokley saw limited action last week and Clark did not play.