Starting running back: Rice or McGahee?

Nov/03/08 10:03 PM Filed in: Willis McGahee
WillisMcGahee
Ravens coach John Harbaugh wouldn't name his starting running back for Sunday's game at the Houston Texans.

The pecking order in the backfield became more clouded after rookie second-round pick Ray Rice filled in for injured Willis McGahee and ran for 154 yards in Sunday's 37-27 win at the Cleveland Browns.

So, should the Ravens go with experience and start McGahee? Or should they stick with the hotter runner and start Rice?

"I don't know if we know going into the game," Harbaugh said at today's news conference. "We'll find out who is going to play more based on how we match up against this football team. Certainly, Ray has expanded himself with the things he can do and the confidence he builds in the coaching staff."

Harbaugh said the Ravens don't think of the situation as McGahee or Rice. They envision their running game as McGahee and Rice.

"We're going to play all those guys," Harbaugh said.

McGahee suited up Sunday but didn't play one snap. He is battling injuries to his knee, ankle and ribs, Harbaugh said.

But McGahee is expected to play Sunday at Houston.

"I think the fact that he didn't play in this game really helped him for next week," Harbaugh said. "He should be full-go for next week."

In addition to the return of McGahee, the Ravens expect cornerback Samari Rolle to come back. Rolle has missed the past six games with a neck injury.

"The neck is sound," Harbaugh said. "He's got 100 percent of his strength back. He's going to be in a little bit of a collar. I think when he gets that first shot, he's going to be re-assured that he's going to be fine. But until you get that first shot, you're not re-assured."

(baltimoresun.com)