Baltimore Ravens Stock Report Week Three

Sep 21, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith (89) makes a long reception against Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden (23) and strong safety Donte Whitner (31) during the fourth quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Ravens won 23-21. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports

Stock up: Steve Smith

The ageless wonder continues to dominate targets in this offense, and seems hell bent on proving all the doubters wrong.  S. Smith led the Ravens in receiving for the third straight game against the Browns, securing 5 of 7 targets for 101 yards (20.2 avg).  It was his most efficient effort yet, though he recorded his lowest YAC of the season (25).

The highlight of the day came when Smith beat Joe Haden on the edge and secured a pass from Joe Flacco that put the Ravens in field goal position.  After winding down the clock, Justin Tucker nailed a 38 yarder for the win.  It was a big play from a guy who knows big plays, and we are skeptical anybody else could have made that catch.

Meanwhile, the Raven’s “number one receiver” Torrey Smith was once against virtually nonexistent for the third straight week.  Don’t expect anything to change, at least not for one more week, as the Ravens host Steve Smith’s former team next week – the Panthers.  Smith has already promised us “blood and guts” will be on the field.  We certainly don’t envy the Panther’s defense right now.