Ravens QB Joe Flacco Quietly Manufacturing Pro Bowl Season
By Samuel Njoku
The Ravens just finished dismantling the Carolina Panthers in Week 4 and will look to build upon that performance in Week 5 against the Indianapolis Colts. Though the Ray Rice drama has died down, there are still some interesting story lines that have popped up this week in Baltimore.
John Harbaugh interest in Michigan
Coaching rumors usually don't begin circulating until late October, but that hasn't stopped talk of Michigan being interested in John Harbaugh. With all the off the field issues that have surrounded the Ravens, many believe a reunion with Harbaugh's alma mater isn't entirely out of the realm of possibility. But the idea of Harbaugh leaving Baltimore after one of the most successful stints in the history of the NFL may be a little farfetched. When asked about the rumor on Monday, the Ravens coach shot it down in typical Harbaugh fashion.
"I'm interested in Brady Hoke being the head coach of Michigan for a long time to come,"stated John Harbaugh.
That statement along with the fact that Harbaugh and Hoke remain good friends, makes this rumor a dead issue. Of course, starting the season 3-1 doesn't hurt either.
Joe Flacco looks Pro Bowl worthy
Ravens QB Joe Flacco has looked good this season — really good. It's only Week 5 but it's clear that he's well on his way to manufacturing his best season yet as a pro. The big difference this season compared to last season is feisty WR Steve Smith. He's provided the jolt of energy this offense lacked with the departure of Anquan Boldin. But it would be a mistake to underestimate the impact that Gary Kubiak has had on Flacco's career. Flacco is without question the most talented QB Kubiak has worked with in his career, and the offensive guru is definitely taking advantage of his talents. As the year goes along, you'll see both of these men get more comfortable with each other, and that will translate into big plays on the football field.
Ravens await the return of Will Hill
One of the more peculiar situations in the NFL reside with Ravens S Will Hill and the NFL's substance abuse policy. With the new agreement in place between the NFL and NFLPA, many players received reduced suspensions or had their suspensions nullified all together. Many assumed Hill would be one of the players affected by the change, but that doesn't appear to be the case.
Hill was suspended for 6 games for violating the substance abuse policy and will not be eligible for return until Week 7 against the Falcons. With the putrid play at safety, Hill may be thrust into the starting role sooner rather than later.
For more Ravens news and updates, visit Ravens Central.
Samuel Njoku was born and raised in Baltimore, MD and is a graduate of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Samuel has covered the Ravens for Examiner.com since 2010. Prior to 2010, Samuel was an avid blogger and radio personality in Salisbury, MD. Samuel Njoku is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com. You can also follow him on Twitter @Ravens_Examiner.