Alex Collins needs to have a larger role in the offense. Let’s face it, he’s been the most explosive player the Ravens have.
Alex Collins may have two fumbles on the season, but he is clearly the Ravens best option in the backfield. Collins isn’t getting enough chances to touch the ball. It would be one thing if Terrance West and Buck Allen were getting the job done. Allen has had some good moments this season, but Collins has provided some of the only sparks for this offense.
John Harbaugh is infamous for his dog house. He puts players there when he’s mad at them (usually for fumbles). The fact that Harbaugh put Collins in the game after a costly fumble against the Steelers is telling. Normally, that kind of play would be end of a running backs day. This means that Harbaugh knows Collins provides something West and Allen don’t. Collins is a play-maker and the Ravens offense needs all the help they can get.
The Ravens need more from their ground game overall. The numbers aren’t bad, in fact it’s the only thing the offense has going for it. When the Ravens get away from running the football bad things happen. There is no excuse for abandoning the running game, especially with the Steelers game.
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Joe Flacco was averaging less than 5 yards per pass and proved to be a turnover slot machine. Passing the football wasn’t going to get the Ravens to pay dirt any faster than running the football. Baltimore needs to see some balance, but just enough to keep defenses honest. It should be 60 percent running plays for this offense.
Collins has averaged over nine yards per carry in back to back weeks. That’s not the incredible part. The incredible part is that Collins has gotten only nine carries in back to back games. He is one of the only players making big plays when he gets his name called. The offense needs big plays like I need oxygen.
The Bottom Line:
Collins is exciting to watch. The fumbles are a problem, but hopefully one he can work through. Showing confidence in Collins and giving him carries could give him the chance to become more careful with the football. It’s not like Collins can hurt the offense.
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Every time Flacco drops back, you know bad things are possible, yet Mornhinweg doesn’t stop calling pass plays. The Ravens were 2-0 because of the running game and a strong defense. Run the ball and give the rock to your most productive back. It’s not complicated.