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AFC North
McGawho? Long considered the best running back in the NFL (by none other than, ahem, himself) new Raven Willis McGahee may already be damaged goods to Baltimore’s offense. No, there is nothing wrong with his restructured knee; McGahee has been advertised as a “power” runner with speed, and Billick & company has apparently bought stock in that description. Historically, most power runners gain momentum as the game progresses; alternatively, McGahee fades down the stretch. In 2006, 57.4% of his rushing yards were gained in the first half, and he gained 4.2 yds/carry. Conversely, only 442 of his 990 total rushing yards were gained in the second half on only nine fewer carries, dropping his yds/carry precipitously (3.4). There is no question McGahee tires as the game lengthens, probably when his team needs him the most.
If you don’t think that’s a big deal, put down your adult beverage and sober up. McGahee has traditionally ignored Buffalo’s off season weight training regimen, preferring to work out “on his own” in his hometown of Miami, FL (uh-huh). No sooner did he sign his new 7-year, $40.12 million contract, McGahee voiced his commitment to the Ravens’ off season conditioning program. A zebra doesn’t change its stripes, and McGahee’s cloak is as shifty as ever. Oh, sure - he was on his best “novelty” behavior - he actually participated with his new Raven teammates in March - but once the ink started to fade and with the signing bonus securely in lock down, McGahee reverted to his natural state. Ravens’ defensive coordinator Rex Ryan dismissed McGahee’s absence at Baltimore’s voluntary OTA practice in June, stating the team doesn’t “look down” at players not in attendance. Gee, I wonder if offensive coordinator Rick Neuheisel feels the same way? You think a little extra, oh, I don’t know, CONDITIONING, might improve stamina in the 4th quarter of divisional games in December?
Moreover, he hasn’t let go of his hatred for his former team. McGahee is still insisting that the Bills secede from the United States and become part of football Canada, that there are too few available single women in Buffalo, and his perpetual dissing of the overabundance of Applebee’s restaurants is stale. Willis, this should be your focus: you only rushed for 100 yards in a game twice last year - both against the Jets - and you only face them once. You’re career rushing average is below 4.0 yds/carry. And in a one-back set, you’re actually going to have to block someone if Steve McNair is going to survive the season. You’ve got your work cut out for you. Best back in the NFL? Right now, you should set your sights on becoming the best back in the AFC North.
State of flux: 2007 First-round draft choice OG Ben Grubbs was drafted to start on the right side, replacing Chris Chester, who was selected in the second round last year. Chester is slated to replace veteran Mike Flynn, but Flynn’s experience and fiery leadership are a necessity on a line in transition. Chester is the long term answer, but as long as Flynn’s knees hold up, he’ll anchor this up and coming unit. Jason Brown should resume his spot at LG after the former fourth-rounder stepped in last season and starting the last 12 games. Adam Terry replaces the departed Tony Pashos and will start the season at RT, but third-rounder Marshal Yanda will earn some playing time. Jonathan Ogden’s retirement talks have vanished, so the future Hall-of-Famer will resume his customary position at LT, keeping McNair perpendicular on passing downs. The odd man out is Keydrick Vincent, who will be first off the bench at either OG spot.
This line allowed only 17 sacks last season but is in transition. However, the Ravens averaged over 24 ppg in the final 10 games of 2006 and this unit had much to do with that. If McGahee can find his groove, this line could be among the finest in the AFC.
EFSlant: Though a vitriolic pain in the ass, don’t jettison McGahee prematurely. He should have a solid, albeit unspectacular, season; but keep an eye on his off-the-field behavior. He tends to lose focus, and if he doesn’t get his requisite props, will turn into a bellicose blithering idiot. Unfortunately, such outbursts affect his game, so have an adequate backup at the ready.
Baltimore’s line is underrated and on the rise. But even they are not out of earshot from McGahee’s belligerent demeanor. A couple misguided comments directed at his line mates, and McGahee will suddenly find MLB’s inhabiting the backfield with relative frequency. This is an unpredictable situation that could be extremely productive or enormously combustive from week to week.
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