"I can't play for nobody else but me," the Ravens' Willis McGahee said this week. (Baltimore Sun photo by Karl Merton Ferron / December 20, 2008)

Ravens running back Willis McGahee insisted today that he is a "team player" and that comments he made on a national radio show this week that made him appear self-centered -- specifically when he said, "I can't play for nobody else but me" -- don't tell the full story.

And yet, when given the opportunity to explain his remarks, he could not hide his disappointment that injuries, particularly knee surgery in training camp, adversely affected his productivity this season, and he was less than exuberant when asked whether the playoffs, and the possibilities they offered, could redeem the year for him.

"My season is over," McGahee said. "[Since] Week 5, I haven't done anything at all. It's not like I'm going to get 1,000 yards, so I'm just playing my role."

Actually, since then, McGahee has had three 100-yard-plus games, including a 77-yard touchdown run that helped the Ravens beat the Dallas Cowboys on Dec. 20, but it seemed to be of little consolation.

"Still, it's not like where I want to be at," said McGahee, who had 671 yards and seven touchdowns on 170 carries in the regular season. "I'm used to competing, but with the injuries and whatnot holding me back, I look at it as a loss."

Ravens coach John Harbaugh was unfazed by McGahee's radio remarks and dismissed any potential distraction they might create.

"No, no concerns about that at all," Harbaugh said today.

McGahee said he had not been approached by the coaching staff about his comments.

"They know I haven't been like that all year, so it's nothing to take out of proportion," the running back said.

McGahee acknowledged that the practice and playing time he missed in training camp, in addition to the solid performances of converted fullback Le'Ron McClain and rookie Ray Rice at running back, made it inevitable that he would play fewer snaps. Yet, he remained steadfast that he was disappointed with his year even when reminded that the playoffs represented a second season.

"See, I'm talking about my season, I'm not talking about the team's season," McGahee said. "I'm talking about my season as an individual. That's what I'm meaning: My season is over with."

But surely a Super Bowl ring would make up for the personal disappointment, wouldn't it?

Rather than offer a yes or no, McGahee told a story from his days at the University of Miami.

"This is like when I was in college, that year [2001] I got hurt and we won the Rose Bowl" over Nebraska, McGahee said. "I was backing up [Clinton] Portis, and I got hurt. I had an MCL [injury to his knee] and I missed a couple of games, and then I came back and started in the Rose Bowl. I felt like I really didn't contribute to that season. Even though I started in the Rose Bowl and we won, Clinton Portis had [more than 100 yards]. I felt like I didn't do anything. That's just me. So that's how I look at it."

However, in the last two regular-season games, both must-wins for the Ravens, McGahee made key contributions, including the 77-yarder against the Cowboys and a 13-yard touchdown run against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

"When my number is called, I'm going to go ahead and play," McGahee said. "But if it's not, I can't do nothing about it."

And the remark about playing for himself rather than someone else was made in reference to suggested adjustments in his running style, he explained, and was not about motivation or commitment to his teammates.

"If I wasn't a team player," he said. "I would have shut it down in the middle of the season from the knee surgery and all that."

There is at least one thing that could salvage McGahee's personal view of his season -- being the Super Bowl Most Valuable Player.

"Now that's a different story," he said, brightening at the idea. "But we're not there, so we can't get that far."

(baltimoresun.com)

Ravens running back Willis McGahee appeared as a guest on The Monty Show on Sporting News Radio yesterday.

During the appearance, McGahee discussed his performance and the upcoming offseason.

"I don't know what this offseason is going to bring. It's been a crazy year for me with the talks of me not being there next year," he said during the radio interview, "but regardless, I'm just going to go out there and play for me ... I can't play for nobody else but me."

Here are a few clips from McGahee's appearance:

McGahee on the upcoming offseason
McGahee says he changed for the team
McGahee on changing his routine

(baltimoresun.com)

For running back Willis McGahee, his 77-yard touchdown jaunt in the fourth quarter only eased some of the frustrations derived from what's on pace to be a career-worst season.

Entering the final game of the regular season, McGahee has rushed for just 647 yards and six touchdowns after gaining 1,207 a year ago. However, McGahee hasn't complained about a drastically reduced workload and has regularly heaped blame onto himself.

"Willis has handled the whole season pretty well," Harbaugh said. "He's been disappointed because things haven't worked out, I'm sure, the way he planned going in as far as number of carries and yards and all those measurable things. To me, the real measurable thing is the character that he's expressed through this whole deal.

"He's continued to work at it. He's been at every practice. He's one of the better students of the game we have. He just kept plugging, and then he gets a chance in the game."

(ravens24x7.com)

One of the best things Willis McGahee said after his long touchdown run Saturday night was that he was trying to make a play because "he hadn't made a play the whole year."

He's right. But leading up to the run, McGahee had some good, solid runs on the perimeter against Dallas as the Cowboys were softened up by Le'Ron McClain, and also being tired from whipping the Ravens' offensive line, especially inside. The Cowboys got tired because they got no support from their offense.

But maybe McGahee will step up his game now. The Ravens need him to get outside and open up the defense. It would nice to see him make a few more plays since he has only made one this season.

(baltimoresun.com)

Willis McGahee racked up 108 yards on eight carries and caught three passes for 21 yards against the Cowboys.
With four minutes to go and the Ravens up by just two points, McGahee broke through a couple of arm tackles and sprinted 77 yards to pay dirt. It was the longest run of his career. McGahee again played second fiddle to LeRon McClain, but he was more affective Saturday night with limited chances than he has been in recent weeks. He may have earned himself a few more carries.

(rotoworld.com)

Willis McGahee carried just six times for 15 yards in the Ravens' Week 15 loss to Pittsburgh. He added two catches for 15 yards.
McGahee dropped a well-placed throw from Joe Flacco in the third quarter and played behind LeRon McClain, who saw 23 touches to Willis' eight. McGahee is clearly no better than second on the depth chart at this point.

(rotoworld.com)

OWINGS MILLS -- The truth hurts, and so does his body.

In an extremely candid interview Thursday, Baltimore Ravens running back Willis McGahee acknowledged the painful reality of his unproductive season punctuated by a shaky performance during a 24-10 win over the Washington Redskins. McGahee seemed sad about the situation.

"I'm back to normal, but I played like doo-doo," McGahee said. "It's nothing to be happy about it, just have to do better this game."

McGahee rushed for just 32 yards on 11 carries against the Redskins, losing a fumble, dropping a pass and bobbling a pitch that went out of bounds.

He missed practice Wednesday because of a family issue, but returned to work Thursday and remains hopeful that he can turn things around.

When asked if the coaching staff still believes in him, McGahee replied: "To tell you the truth, I wouldn't. I haven't had the best season. Right now, Le'Ron [McClain and Ray [Rice are the hot guys. You stick with your guns."

Since rushing for a season-high 112 rushing yards and scoring two touchdowns against the Houston Texans he has gained just 58 yards over the past four games. His longest run was seven yards during that period, and he was benched against the Cincinnati Bengals.

McGahee has rushed for just 521 yards and five touchdowns with a 3.4 average on 152 carries. He is on target to post career lows for rushing yards, rushing average and carries one year removed from leading Baltimore with 1,207 rushing yards.

His role has continued to decline as the Ravens have emphasized a committee approach to the running game.

"It's still going to be running back by committee, we like that," offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said. "I think it's good for us from a game-plan standpoint. We're not going to overreact if a guy plays really well, and give this guy the stamp as the starter or a guy doesn't play well and he's not going to play. Every guy has a rough game every now and then, and we're going to need every one of these guys down the stretch."

McGahee has dealt with injuries to his eyes ribs and ankle and underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in August following an offseason where he rarely attended workouts and minicamps.

"I'm not making any excuses," McGahee said. "I made a decision to go out there and play, and I haven't been performing the way I can."

McGahee dismissed the notion that he's simply one long run away from shaking out of his slump.

"I'm looking for a whole complete season, not just one carry," he said.

Although it would be expensive for the Ravens to part ways with McGahee after the season, he knows that this year has raised doubts about his future status with the organization.

"You can't pout," McGahee said. "You look at the last performance I had, it wasn't good. You have to deal with your medicine."

(hometownannapolis.com)

Ravens running back Willis McGahee expects to be healthy enough to play in Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. But, he understands if the team decides to use him sparringly.

McGahee's struggles continued in last Sunday's 24-10 win over the Washington Redskins when he rushed for just 32 yards, had a fumble and dropped a pass. The six-year veteran, who missed practice Wednesday due to a family issue, has rushed for just 58 yards in his last four games while the Ravens rely more on fullback Le'Ron McClain and rookie Ray Rice to carry the ground game. McGahee has rushed for 521 yards on 152 carries while McClain leads the Ravens with 606 yards on 162 carries. Rice leads the team with a 4.2 yards per carry average.

"To tell you the truth. I wouldn't," said McGahee on whether he thought the coaches still had confidence in him, "I haven't had the best season. Right now, Le'Ron [McClain] and Ray [Rice] are the hot guys. You stick with your guns.

(theexaminer.com)

Jamison Hensley, of The Baltimore Sun, reports Baltimore Ravens RB Willis McGahee said his aches from Sunday, Dec. 7, have improved, but he has yet to shake off his performance. McGahee finished with 32 yards rushing, a fumble and a mishandled pitch that went out of bounds for a loss of eight yards. McGahee said, "I'm back to normal but I played like do-do. It's nothing to be happy about. Just have to do better this game." McGahee has rushed for 58 yards in four games since rushing for a season-high 112 yards in Week 10.

(kffl.com)

FOX Sports reports that Baltimore Ravens running back Willis McGahee has been struggling with chronic migraines.

This helps explain why McGahee has been taking a back seat of late in the offense. He should contribute to the committee today, but he's a flex play at best these days.

(fantasyfootballchamps.com)

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) -- Willis McGahee has become the forgotten man in the Baltimore Ravens' running game, and he apparently isn't the least bit frustrated or angry about his pronounced lack of playing time.

During a 34-3 rout of Cincinnati on Sunday, McGahee watched from the sideline as Le'Ron McClain and rookie Ray Rice shared the workload in what used to be a potent three-pronged attack.

McGahee led the Ravens in rushing last year and went to the Pro Bowl, yet this season he has fewer yards and attempts than McClain, who had eight carries as a rookie fullback last year.

After reaching 1,000 yards rushing in three of the last four seasons, McGahee has only 489 yards in 2008 and appears to have plummeted from atop the depth chart. Asked Wednesday if his ego was hurting, he shrugged his shoulders and said, "It's like a positive right now. The injuries I have, it just gives me a chance to heal my body and let it rest even more, just adding on another couple years to my football span."

But what about this year? Will he be part of Baltimore's playoff push, or remain a spectator?

McGahee is dealing with an ailing left knee, a sore right ankle and bruised ribs. That may have been the reason he didn't play against the Bengals, although coach John Harbaugh eluded the issue and McGahee said, "I don't have an answer."

The benching came after McGahee rushed for only 8 yards in seven tries against Philadelphia. The week before that, he gained 18 yards in nine carries against the New York Giants.

At 260 pounds, McClain was better equipped to punish the Cincinnati defense than the 232-pound McGahee. But that doesn't explain why the 205-pound Rice is now apparently the second option in the rotation.

"There's no need to be frustrated. It's not going to get you nowhere. You can pout and cry all you want but that's not going to get you on the field," McGahee said. "I'm not complaining, man. As long as we keep winning and moving the ball, no tears over here."

Rice has gained 423 yards on 104 carries and ranks second on the team with 31 catches.

"The better I do, the more my role expands," the rookie said.

And the less McGahee plays. Drafted in 2003 by Buffalo after sustaining a serious knee injury in his final game at the University of Miami, McGahee did not play as a rookie but has averaged 291 carries over the last four seasons.

This year, he's at 141 attempts and will be pressed to get 200.

McClain received his first NFL start at tailback against the Bengals and might get the call against Sunday against the Washington Redskins. Harbaugh isn't tipping his hand -- to either the media or his players.

"I really don't know. I guess everybody has to wait until Sunday," said McClain, whose 545 rushing yards is 527 more than he gathered last year. "We just go with the flow. Whatever goes, goes."

McGahee said he is ready, when and if needed.

"When my number is called, I will be out there. If not, Ray and Le'Ron are doing a great job," he said. "It's not like the running game is really struggling. So I don't mind sitting back and watching."

(cnnsi.com)

Coach John Harbaugh spent a good portion of his news conference this afternoon reiterating that running back Willis McGahee is a valued cog in the offense. McGahee has been overshadowed by fullback Le’Ron McClain as the team’s leading rusher the last two weeks, and he did not get one carry in yesterday's 34-3 win against the Cincinnati Bengals as McClain and rookie Ray Rice shared tailback duties.

"I don’t know what everybody’s talking about," Harbaugh said. "We really like Willis McGahee. We think he’s a really good player, and we plan on Willis being a huge part of what we’re doing in December. He’s been practicing very well. He’s getting stronger and stronger throughout the course of the season. There’s no question in my mind that Willis McGahee is a very talented back, and he’s going to be a huge part of what we’re doing here down the stretch."

Harbaugh said the plan will continue to utilize the three running backs based on health, strategy and effectiveness.

"Really, we think we’ve got three good players, and if you’ve got three really good players, why would you want to put two of them on the bench?" he said. "So we use them where we can, when we can according to health, according to who’s most effective, according to the game plan. We have 53 guys on the roster, and we can put 45 guys up. We want to use all 45 if we can. That makes us stronger as a group, as a team. That’s really the whole idea."

Earlier this afternoon, McGahee issued a statement, which read, "I support my Team and Coach Harbaugh, and I love playing in Baltimore. I am working hard and look forward to helping our Team win another Championship. Recently, LeRon, Ray and myself had the opportunity to give back to 700 families for Thanksgiving. It has been great working together with such good teammates on and off the field."

(baltimoresun.com)

According to a team official, Willis McGahee (ankle) could have returned to Sunday's action if necessary.
The Ravens pulled McGahee in the third quarter after he rushed nine times for just 18 yards and caught two passes for seven. At that point, the Ravens were getting blown out, and apparently decided to play it safe with their running back. It sounds like he'll be fine for Week 12.

(rotoworld.com)

Update:
McGahee had the best game of his season against Houston on Sunday, gaining 112 yards and two touchdowns off 25 carries while adding a nine-yard reception.

Recommendation:
Meanwhile, Ray Rice gained just 17 yards off 7 carries and Le'Ron McClain gained 19 yards off four carries. After questions prior to the game regarding how the Ravens would split their carries in Week 10, McGahee seems to have regained his feature role from Rice and also was given the goal-line carries that McClain has vultured all season long. While the increased role was great to see, you still should not set your expectations for McGahee too high the rest of the season, as four of his six games from Weeks 11-16 come against defenses ranked top-10 against the run.

(rotowire.com)

Who's hot?

1. Ray Lewis, LB, Baltimore Ravens
Ray Lewis put together arguably his best game of the season in a 41-13 blowout victory over the Houston Texans. Lewis was dominant against the run--leading the team in tackles with eight--and jumping the passing lanes with two interceptions of Houston quarterback Sage Rosenfels. Throughout his career, Lewis has always had an uncanny knack for finding the football and did so again Sunday with another performance that was vintage Lewis. It's been apparent all year that the 13-year veteran can still bring it.

2. Willis McGahee, RB, Ravens
Is it us, or does Baltimore seem to have a different 100-yard rusher every week? Last week rookie Ray Rice had the hot hand. This week it was veteran Willis McGahee, who returned from a knee injury and rushed for 112 yards and two touchdowns. No matter who is getting the carries, it all equals success for the Ravens. Baltimore has a four-game winning streak and is averaging 33.5 points per game during that span. The consistent running game and ability to control the clock against opponents are major reasons why.

3. Kellen Winslow Jr., TE, Cleveland Browns
A major reason for new Browns quarterback Brady Quinn's success last week were the numbers put up by tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. He had a season-high 10 catches for 111 yards and two touchdowns in a losing effort against Denver. It marked the first multi-touchdown game for Winslow since high school. It's clear that Cleveland's offense under Quinn will take on a much different look and will focus more on short passes to the tight ends and running backs. So Winslow could be in for a big second half of the season with the quarterback change.

(espn.com)

This was a game defined by spectacular moments, on offense, defense, even special teams (hello, Steve Hauschka). But it was dominated by a player whose longest gain was a mere 12 yards and whose two most significant plays covered a total of 5 yards.

A player who never set foot on the field for the Ravens a week ago.

"I could have played,'' Willis McGahee said today of his game-time decision to stay out of the Ravens' victory in Cleveland with a gimpy right ankle. "But I'm pretty sure I couldn't have played like this. I would have been out there hobbling."

Today, McGahee was the one dishing out the hurt. The entire Ravens' offense spent the day punishing the Houston Texans' defense at a steady pace. But it was McGahee who was most often setting that pace, lugging it 25 times for 112 yards, both season highs, and two touchdowns, his most in one game as a Raven.

Most of the carries and yards were between the tackles, in heavy traffic, where the punishment to his perpetually battered body is greatest and where it benefited the Ravens the most. It was, he said, "my best game of the year.''

Oh, the Ravens' 41-13 win had a lot of bells and whistles: two interceptions by Ray Lewis, one by Haloti Ngata; the latest flourishes from the Suggs Package, just to name a few. But at the core of the Ravens' fourth straight win, and third straight on the road, was your basic, blue-collar, smash-mouth, clock-winding, chain-moving ground game. Led by someone who always seems hurt (because he often is) but who keeps coming back to hurt himself and the opposing defense again.

This week, McGahee was CEO of the backs-by-committee, after Ray Rice filled the role last week with 154 yards. This time, the trio of McGahee, Le'Ron McClain and Rice combined for 36 carries and 148 yards, a crisp 4.1 a pop. Twenty of those carries, and 89 of those yards, came from McGahee in the second half alone.

It becomes more obvious every week that the Ravens can run the ball at will no matter who runs it and whom they run it against -- which is nice to have tucked away now that it's November and they're, yes, in the playoff hunt. Rice, who actually started the game and finished with pedestrian numbers (seven carries, 17 yards), couldn't have cared less that his elder had retaken the spotlight.

"How many did he have?'' Rice asked. "That's what I mean; it really doesn't matter. We've got three good backs who can all run it, so when one gets off, we're like, 'Hey, it's supposed to happen.'. ''

McClain carried it just four times, but three of them were on second- or third-and-one, and he got the first down each time. It almost wasn't fair.

On their first three possessions of the second half, the Ravens sandwiched two touchdowns around a long Matt Stover missed field goal and pretty much locked the game up. They set things up by plowing the Texans backward and chewing up time. Eventually, Sage Rosenfels was playing as if he had to score fast every time and then was throwing it straight to Ravens defenders.

Give credit to McGahee's fresh legs and the fact that the Ravens can afford to let him recover. Plus the fact that McGahee hates feeling left out of the fun. "I'm one of those players who can't sit on the sidelines and just watch my teammates play,'' he said. "I want to go out and be a part of it.''

Last week, he wasn't. This week, he was. Either way, the Ravens' fun doesn't seem to stop.

(baltimoresun.com)

Willis McGahee ran 25 times for 112 yards and two touchdowns and caught a nine-yard pass as the Ravens toppled the Texans in Week 10 to improve to 6-3 on the season. Houston's record now stands at 3-6.
McGahee's huge day came out of nowhere. He didn't do much practice work during the week and Ray Rice even started the game over him, but McGahee got hot and the Ravens rode him. The Texans simply could not stop the Ravens' running game. The three-headed monster will continue to make this backfield inconsistent on a week-to-week basis, but it's nice to see McGahee is healthy.

(rotoworld.com)

Week Nine was one of those changing-of-the-guard weeks that occur every so often, with a bunch of relatively anonymous players having breakthrough performances and several established veterans finding themselves unofficially marginalized. Here’s a look at five established vets who reached the end of the road this past weekend.

1. Edgerrin James — It seemed inevitable that Tim Hightower would take over as the Cardinals’ lead back at some point this season. The rookie had been making the most of the half-dozen or so touches he’d been getting each game, and James was getting fewer and fewer carries as the season progressed. But the passing of the torch came abruptly in Week Nine, when James stood idling on the sideline while Hightower carried 22 times for 109 yards and a TD. James never quite met expectations with the Cardinals after his amazing seven-year run with the Colts. The Edge is gaining 3.5 yards per carry this season and has never gained 4.0 yards per carry during any of his seasons in Arizona after averaging at least 4.0 in six of his seven years with Indianapolis. Hightower had a 30-yard TD run against the Rams on Sunday; in 2?seasons with the Cardinals, James has a long run of 27 yards. Now it appears that his long run as a valuable fantasy contributor is over.

2. Willis McGahee — A bad ankle sidelined McGahee during the Ravens’ Week Nine win over the Browns, but the play of rookie Ray Rice could keep McGahee sidelined in the weeks to come. McGahee has been hindered by injuries all year, which might be part of the reason why he’s gaining only 3.5 yards per carry. He ran for 105 yards in Week Seven and finished the month of October by running for TDs in consecutive games, but there have been warning signs lately, including an eight-carry, 18-yard performance against a bad Indianapolis run defense in Week Six and a per-carry average of 2.5 yards against the hapless Raiders in Week Eight. Rice and Le’Ron McClain both have run well for the Ravens this season, and Rice’s 154-yard performance against the Browns was an eye-opener. McGahee simply hasn’t been that effective this season, and with the 5-3 Ravens in the thick of the playoff chase, it’s a good bet that head coach John Harbaugh will use his best runner(s) rather than stubbornly sticking with the high-salary guy.

(profootballweekly.com)

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)

OWINGS MILLS -- The fluid drained from Baltimore Ravens running back Willis McGahee's left knee filled up a large syringe last week, a painful procedure prior to a 27-13 victory over the Miami Dolphins.

McGahee still wound up producing his top performance of the season, rushing for 105 yards and scoring his second touchdown of the year.

Although he clearly wasn't 100 percent, McGahee generated his first 100-yard game since a Dec. 16, 2007 overtime loss to the Dolphins. He was upgraded to full participation in practice Thursday on the official injury report.

"I've been dealing with the knee all year, and, hopefully, it acts right this week," said McGahee, who had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in August. "It's just football, it happens. I'm all right to play."

Unlike previous outings where he has been limited by eye, rib and knee injuries, McGahee finished the game and piled up a season-high 152 yards of total offense. He also lost a fumble after a 35-yard screen, but redeemed himself with a five-yard touchdown to close the game out.

"The first four games were really my preseason," said McGahee, who was inactive during the preseason and didn't play in the season-opener due to the knee. "I was a little rusty, but, hopefully, it can be this way week in and week out now."

McGahee has averaged 94.4 rushing yards in four games at Dolphin Stadium, excelling in familiar territory in the NFL after starring at the University of Miami.

"It's always a good feeling when you play in your hometown," McGahee said. "I've been playing every year since I've been in the league. It tends to get a little old, but you still have a little fire in you."

For the season, McGahee has gained a team-high 293 yards on 77 carries for a 3.8 average with 11 receptions for 105 yards.

Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron had envisioned making McGahee the centerpiece of the offense during the offseason. Now, he's hoping to increase McGahee's role if his health allows.

"I have a ton of respect for what Willis did last week, taking 30 cc out of a knee and then coming out with that type of performance," Cameron said. "That's something he's going to manage throughout the year.

"He's getting healthier, and we need to keep him healthy. I think we all know what type of player he is and can be. That's critical for our offense, especially through the grind of the season."

MIAMI - Willis McGahee continues to make himself at home in South Florida.

The Ravens running back rushed for 105 yards and his first touchdown of the season in the 27-13 victory over the Miami Dolphins.

Not surprisingly, it was McGahee's first 100-yard game since the last time he played here (Dec. 16, 2007). The former University of Miami star has averaged 94.4 rushing yards in four games at Dolphin Stadium.

"It's always a good feeling when you play in your hometown," he said. "I've been playing every year since I've been in the league. It tends to get a little old. But you still have a little fire in you."

It was the best game of the season for McGahee, who had 152 yards of offense.

But it was his play in the passing game that led to what he called "the worst highlight of my career."

After making a remarkable run off a screen pass, McGahee fumbled at Miami's 5-yard line when the Ravens led 20-13 early in the fourth quarter.

On the next series, McGahee capped the drive with a 5-yard touchdown run.

"[The fumble] could have turned the game around. But the defense stepped up and made up for it," McGahee said. "I had to go out there and make a touchdown."

(sun-sentinel.com)

MIAMI GARDENS — Miami native Willis McGahee returned to South Florida and dominated the Dolphins' defensive front in the second half Sunday.

McGahee, a star at Miami Central High and the University of Miami, found his rhythm after halftime and picked up 45 of his game-high 105 yards on his first four carries of the third quarter.

He gained nine yards on his first run and 14 on each of his next two. He followed up with a back-breaking 8-yard end-around on 3rd-and-2 to keep the Ravens moving.

The Ravens' drive lasted 13 plays and more than six minutes, resulting in a field goal that gave Baltimore a 20-6 lead. They went on to win 27-13.
"We were wearing them down," Baltimore left tackle Jared Gaither said. "We're a hard-nosed offense and we'll run straight at you."

McGahee did exactly that. He averaged more than 5 yards on his five runs up the middle, and finished with 105 yards and a touchdown on 19 attempts.

The Ravens relied on rookie Ray Rice early in the game, then turned to McGahee and mixed in bruising fullback Le'Ron McClain to average four yards per carry.

The Dolphins insisted that they knew Baltimore would lean on its ground game to take the burden off rookie quarterback Joe Flacco, but that knowledge did not seem to help.

"They had their way with us," safety Yeremiah Bell said. "It's frustrating defensively not to be able to execute when we knew what they were going to do."

McGahee nearly scored a second touchdown on a screen pass, but Bell jarred the ball loose when he was just 8 yards from the end zone. Dolphins linebacker Charlie Anderson recovered the fumble with 12:43 left in the game. The gain was 35 yards, Baltimore's second-longest play of the afternoon, but McGahee was embarrassed afterward.

"That was the worst highlight of my career," he said. "It was a good screen, a good run and it wasn't a good finish — like it was all for nothing."

Aside from that mistake, McGahee's performance was reminiscent of his UM years (2000-02). McGahee, who had his best game of the season, had been slowed by knee and rib injuries. Last week, he had only eight carries in a 31-3 loss to Indianapolis.

His success Sunday alleviated pressure on Flacco, who produced his best game, completing 17 of 23 passes for 232 yards and a touchdown.

(palmbeachpost.com)

Ravens offensive coordinator Cam Cameron indicated Thursday that Willis McGahee (ribs) is as healthy as he's been all season.

"You know, he's healthy," Cameron said. "And he was healthy last week. He’s not 100 percent, but probably there aren’t many backs at this stage who are. I think he’ll have a heck of a ball game" in Week 6. It would be a surprise if McGahee didn't go over 100 yards against the banged-up Colts.

(rotoworld.com)

Ravens running back Willis McGahee was none too pleased when he found out ESPN reporter Suzy Kolber reported that it was possible he was getting injured because he did not take part in offseason workouts, according to the Baltimore Sun. "She's never played a day in the NFL. Why would I listen to her?" McGahee asked.

(nooffseason.com)

Willis McGahee said he hopes to be able to finish a game. McGahee said that his injury to his ribs was in the back where he took a helmet. McGahee broke two ribs last year towards the end of the season. McGahee’s left eyes looks really bad, it had a lot of blood in it. That is the eye that he got poked in during the Browns game. McGahee takes exception to people saying he is getting these injuries because of him missing off season workouts. McGahee said he will have a better understanding on how he feels after practice today.

(wnst.net)

Ravens coach John Harbaugh said RB Willis McGahee's ribs are the only serious injury concern for Sunday's game against Tennessee.
Harbaugh offered no details, saying only, "We think he's going to be OK. We'll just have to see how the rib goes this week." McGahee was limited to just one carry in the second half Monday night before suffering the injury and walking off with assistance. He's likely to split carries with LeRon McClain if he does suit up against the Titans bruising defense. Seek other options this week.

(rotoworld.com)

Willis McGahee ran for 42 yards on 13 carries and caught three passes for 19 yards in his Monday Night game.
While it was great to see McGahee get nearly every running back touch in the first half as well as be so active in the passing game, it is a little sobering that he only had one carry in the second half after sustaining a chest injury.

(rotoworld.com)

Owings Mills, MD (Sports Network) - Baltimore Ravens running back Willis McGahee is listed as probable for Monday night's divisional matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers with a lacerated eyelid.

McGahee was forced to leave Sunday's 28-10 win over the Cleveland Browns twice after having his eyes gouged in two separate incidents. Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh sent a tape to the league office complaining that Browns' defenders intentionally tried to injure McGahee.

McGahee, 26, made his first appearance of the 2008 campaign last Sunday, rushing for 64 yards on 15 carries with a touchdown. He sat out the entire preseason and the Ravens' first two weeks due to bruised ribs.

The University of Miami product rushed for 1,207 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games last season, his first in Baltimore. He also caught 43 passes for 231 yards and one TD.

The Ravens also listed as probable, running back Le'Ron McClain with migraines and linebacker Ray Lewis with a foot injury. Offensive tackle Adam Terry is questionable with an ankle injury.

Cornerback Samari Rolle, safety Dawan Landry and defensive tackle Kelly Gregg have been ruled out for Monday.

(portsnetowrk.com)

The Baltimore Ravens accused certain Cleveland players of intentionally gouging the eyes of tailback Willis McGahee on two occasions in last Sunday's 28-10 victory against the Browns.

The Ravens reported the incidents by sending tapes to the league office earlier this week.

"We talked to the league," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said during his weekly news conference Wednesday. "We asked them for their opinion on what happened, and we're waiting to hear back on it."

The Ravens are withholding the names they reported to the NFL. But in reviewing the tape, Cleveland middle linebacker Andra Davis is one of the players in question. Davis can be seen reaching under McGahee's visor and poking him in the right eye during a tackle near the goal line midway through the third quarter.

It is unknown who the Ravens believe is the second culprit, but they believe there were two separate cases Sunday that were intentional.

McGahee rushed for 64 yards on 15 carries and a touchdown in the victory against the Browns. So far, he has had limited participation in practice this week because of his eye injury.

"That thing is swollen up badly," Harbaugh said. "As long as he can see, he'll play. But if he can't see, he's not going to be able to play. So we'll have to try to get that swelling down."

This weekend, Baltimore (2-0) has a big game against the Pittsburgh Steelers (2-1) on Monday night in a battle for sole possession of first place in the AFC North. The teams split their season series last year.

(espn.com)

McGahee returned to full capacity Sunday, and he did rush for 64 yards and a TD. Unfortunately, he suffered a cut over his right eyelid, but according to the Baltimore Sun, he is expected to play this week. A word of caution is in order, though. Everyone in Baltimore -- the coaches and the running backs themselves -- seems to be very comfortable with the concept of a running-back rotation, so expect McGahee, Le'Ron McClain and Ray Rice to continue to share time.

In the wake of McGahee being struck in the eye Sunday in an episode that opened up a cut on his right eyelid and also being poked in his left eye by the Cleveland Browns’ defense, the Baltimore Ravens have filed a complaint with the league office.

(espn.com)

Here's something Ravens fans can take to the bank for the rest of the season: their leading rusher won't be the fullback, their longest touchdown run won't come from a wide receiver, and their signature rushing highlight won't come from Joe Flacco.

The Ravens, without injured Pro Bowl running back Willis McGahee, moved the chains in odd varieties during their 17-10 win last Sunday over the Bengals.

They churned out 229 rushing yards. Eighty-six of them came from second-year pro Le'Ron McClain, the team's 260-pound fullback who amassed 19 carries -- or nearly three times the number of carries McClain had accrued for his career.

Before Sunday, McClain had never carried the ball more than twice in one game and had just 18 career rushing yards.

Second-round pick Ray Rice added 64 yards on 22 carries in his NFL debut, but neither McClain nor Rice contributed the game's highlight runs.
Those came from wideout Michael Clayton and from Flacco, the rookie quarterback also making his NFL debut.

Clayton's 42-yard touchdown run off a double reverse staked Baltimore to a 7-0 lead, and Flacco's awkward, less-than-graceful 38-yard touchdown scamper broke open the game at 17-3.

With McGahee now getting an extra week to heal after Monday night's game with Houston was postponed to Nov. 9, the Ravens' run game can return to normalcy.

"It's going to be good to have Willis in the backfield," receiver Derrick Mason said. "We have all of our weapons healthy and ready to go, and the only person we were missing was Willis. To have Willis back, our main back, is good for our offense."

McGahee underwent arthroscopic knee surgery last month. After missing the entire preseason and nearly all of the minicamps, McGahee's conditioning is gradually returning. He should factor significantly into the ground game next Sunday against Cleveland.

"I want a full workload, but that's something the coaches will have to go through upstairs to figure out what they want to do," he said. "I'm feeling pretty good. It gets better every day, so I can't complain."

(delawareonline.com)

In the Ravens' new running scheme, the joke could end up being on Willis McGahee.

Criticized for not showing enough commitment to the Ravens, McGahee might have to learn about the concept of "team" the hard way - as in, a running-back-by-committee situation.

From all indications, it seems as if McGahee, the Ravens' featured back last season, will have to split time with two upstarts, Ray Rice and Le'Ron McClain.

McGahee is expected to make his first appearance against the Houston Texans on Monday after missing the entire preseason with a knee injury. He said he could handle his usual 20 to 25 carries.

"I want a full workload, but that's something the coaches have to figure out," McGahee said.

A "full workload" doesn't appear to be in the Ravens' game plan. It's uncertain whether McGahee will even start.

"As of today, he's got a role in this game," offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said yesterday. "We ultimately aren't going to know until he's practiced through the end of the week."

McGahee was active and dressed in full uniform Sunday, but the Ravens didn't put him on the field for one play. Coach John Harbaugh explained that the Ravens wanted to be cautious with McGahee and his knee.

But one could read an underlying message from Sunday: The Ravens don't need McGahee to establish a dominant running attack.

The Ravens have gone out of their way to embrace McGahee. The coaching staff has repeatedly talked about how McGahee is a "special back" and how he could see increased touches as an every-down back.

McGahee reciprocated by falling into the same bad habits that forced him out of Buffalo.

He was the only offensive starter not to show for a majority of the voluntary minicamps this offseason. He reported to training camp in not-so-stellar shape. And he was one of the last to arrive to the first practice of training camp.

It'll be interesting to see how the Ravens handle McGahee in the future. He is signed through 2013, but only the next two seasons are manageable salaries ($605,000 this season and $620,000 in 2009).

In the short term, it's not about earning more money. It's about earning more playing time.

"If we have a group of guys that we know that can help us win," Cameron said, "we'll play them all."

Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Sunday that "we should have (Willis McGahee) ready to go next week."
McGahee was active Sunday, but didn't play. "We were concerned about the knee," Harbaugh admitted. "We were hopeful to get him into the game at some point in time, but the way the game shook out, we were unable to do it. He'll practice in a more physical manner this week." McGahee will have a favorable matchup at Houston if he goes. Track his practice workloads this week.

(rotoworld.com)

While Willis McGahee sounded hopeful about playing against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, the Ravens coaches did not sound as optimistic about the running back's availability.

Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said McGahee, who underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Aug.. 11, could be a game-time decision for the season opener.

"You can see that he's getting close," Cameron said today. "Whether that'll mean this week or not, I don't know."

McGahee, who has missed all four preseason games, was limited in practice for the second consecutive day but said he is aiming to start against the Bengals.

"That's the plan, but it all depends on how the knee reacts," he said. "If it's not ready to go, then it doesn't make any sense to go out there. But if it's good, then it's a go. So I'd say it's about 50-50."

McGahee rushed for 1,207 yards last season -- good enough for fourth place on the franchise's all-time list -- but if he cannot play, rookie Ray Rice would line up behind rookie quarterback Joe Flacco.

Rice, a second-round pick out of Rutgers, started every game in the preseason, rushing for 146 yards on 26 carries (5.6 yards per carry).

"If he's [McGahee is] back and healthy, I think our offense will be a lot better because of what he can contribute to this offense," Rice said. "When he's back, he's back. But if not, when I'm in there, I'm the starter whether I started the game or when I come in the game. I have to take that approach every rep I get."

(baltimoresun.com)

Word out of Baltimore is that RB Willis McGahee still appears to be limping around as he continues to recover from the knee surgery he underwent almost three weeks ago. Sources say there’s little chance he’ll be 100 percent by the season opener, and even if he plays, count on seeing a lot of rookie RB Ray Rice.

"I wouldn’t say he’s 100 percent just [from] watching him run around out there," coach John Harbaugh said of McGahee. Be sure to track his progress throughout the week as it's too early to tell if he or Ray Rice will get the start against the Bengals. Expect Rice to see significant action in the opener even if McGahee does go.

(pfw.com)

The Baltimore Sun concedes that Willis McGahee (knee surgery) is a lock to be on the Ravens' Week 1 roster.
The Sun has been leading the McGahee-could-be-cut bandwagon, but it's hard to imagine the club keeping him for the opener, then releasing McGahee in-season. Even if he starts all season, which we expect, there's a decent chance he'll be cut by next spring.

(rotoworld.com)

OWINGS MILLS, Md.: Baltimore Ravens running back Willis McGahee, currently limited to running in a swimming pool as he recuperates from arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, expects to be running with the football when the season starts.

Although he's off crutches, McGahee isn't able to jog yet. He's targeting the Ravens' Sept. 7 season-opener against the Cincinnati Bengals for his return.

"I will be ready, but I don't know about playing in the preseason," McGahee said. "We will have to wait and see. It's always making progress. Every day I come out here, it's getting better."

Because he can't run yet and the clock is ticking down to the opener, McGahee is making the most out of his aquatic workouts.

"I know it ain't exactly running, but running in the pool is great conditioning," McGahee said. "Just ask Michael Phelps."

McGahee underwent surgery in Coral Gables, Fla., during training camp at the same hospital where doctors surgically repaired a devastating injury to his left knee during the 2003 Fiesta Bowl.

Now,he's trying to work his way back in shape from the much less serious setback.

"It's not the same rehab, it's totally different," McGahee said. "This is like a walk in the park."

Ravens coach John Harbaugh acknowledged that there's a chance that McGahee may miss the entire preseason.

"There is a timetable, but I'd have to say it's fluid because you just don't know for sure," Harbaugh said. "That's the thing coaches ask all the time: 'Tell us when he's going to be back.' We want that answer, too, but it's impossible."

Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron is intalling a new offense that features the tailback, but McGahee is missing valuable repetitions after skipping the majority of offseason workouts.

"There are certain things you need to be on the field to see," McGahee said. "Right now, they're throwing the whole playbook at us and they want you to remember it all. What they did the first day, they might not bring it back up again until today, and I'm like, 'Man, I don't remember all this.'"

McGahee is in no apparent danger of losing his job to rookie Ray Rice, a second-round pick who rushed for 77 yards and a touchdown in a 23-15 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Harbaugh has said McGahee remains entrenched as the starter.

Four-time Pro Bowl fullback Lorenzo Neal looks forward to forming a productive tandem with McGahee when he returns.

"He's a physical man and we just want him to have a speedy recovery so we can get him out here on the field," Neal said. "We're going to need that guy because he's definitely a workhorse. The guy is a great back."

(iht.com)

Willis McGahee could miss the rest of the preseason, according to the Baltimore Sun. Furthermore, reporter Mike Preston says McGahee does not have many fans in the Baltimore front office because his work ethic is substandard, and it would not be a shock to see him get cut before the end of the regular season.

(rototimes.com)

Speaking to reporters for the first time since getting his knee scoped, Willis McGahee said he has a timetable of sorts for his return.

"I will be ready [for the regular season] but I don't know about playing in the preseason," the running back said today.

McGahee has missed most of training camp and the first two preseason games because of a knee injury. He said he doesn't know when he will begin to jog.

In Saturday's 23-15 preseason loss to the Minnesota Vikings, rookie running back Ray Rice ran for 77 yards and a touchdown in filling in for McGahee. After the game, coach John Harbaugh reiterated that McGahee would be the starting running back when he is ready to return.

(baltimoresun.com)

WESTMINSTER -- Although he returned to practice on Saturday, the status of Ravens safety Ed Reed remains up in the air.

Reed has a problem with his shoulder that kept him out of action the first two weeks of training camp. It has been described as a strength and nerve issue.

He was allowed to return to practice on Saturday, but is wearing a red jersey, the ones the quarterbacks wear so they will not engage in any contact.

"It's a little bit more in-depth than you've been hearing about," Reed told reporters on Monday when asked about the injury. "I can't explain it at this point because I am still researching it myself. I figure it might be all right. If it's not, we will deal with it."

He wasn't sure if he would be ready to play in the season opener against Cincinnati.

"We'll see man, we'll see," he said.

Reed said it wasn't something that just happened, but something that has been building up over his 27 years of playing football.

"I'm out here moving around and loosening it up," he said. "Just seeing how it feels playing in a game situation. It's just being smart with it."

Asked about wearing the red jersey, he said, "It's just something to help the guys understand not to have any contact. That hasn't worked at all. I've still been getting bumped, still been hitting the ground, running through guys, which is a good thing because you really get to feel if you can get hit or not."

He said after his career is over he will have to get surgery on the shoulder.

Baltimore coach John Harbaugh seemed more optimistic about Reed's status and felt he would be ready for the opener.

""I'm not doubtful of that at all, based on what we've been told by the doctors," Harbaugh said. "We've got plenty of experts working on it. They're making a lot of progress. I think they are confident that they are making a lot of progress. Ed wants to be right. Any great player wants to feel physically right. I think it's our job to get to that point."

He said it was important for Reed to get back in action this week.

"That's why we had the red jersey," he said. "He doesn't need to contact stuff to get ready to play. As a football player, changing direction, especially for a defensive back, backpedaling, bursting, spacing, Those things are going to be very important for him. He doesn't need the contact stuff to get ready, but the movement stuff is important.

Losing the 29-year-old Reed would be a big blow to the Ravens, even though through the draft and free agency they have added a lot of depth to their secondary this year.

Reed is a former NFL Defensive Player of the Year who is considered one of the top safeties in the league.

"I hate that guy so much because he's so good," wide receiver Derrick Mason said. "I'm glad he's on our team. He is the best free safety in the game hands down. There's nobody better than him."

"I've always heard stories about how Ed Reed makes plays, and now I'm out here witnessing it," said cornerback Frank Walker, who signed with the Ravens as a free agent during the offseason. "You'd better watch your back or Ed will take your candy, the football."

Harbaugh confirmed on Monday that running back Willis McGahee had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. He said it was a precautionary thing and he should be ready for the opener although there is a possibility he could miss it.

"We going to go in there and scope it and clean it up just to make sure he's going to be ready by opening day," Harbaugh said. "We want to make sure we know what's going on in there."

(fredericknewspost.com)

Trying to clear up doubts about two of his star players, Ravens coach John Harbaugh said he expects safety Ed Reed and running back Willis McGahee to be ready for the Sept. 7 regular-season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Reed, a four-time Pro Bowl player, recently came off the physically unable to perform list but has not engaged in any contact because of a shoulder injury.

While Reed seemed uncertain whether he would be able to play at the start of the regular season, Harbaugh downplayed such a scenario, saying there has been "a lot of progress" made with Reed's injury.

"No, I'm not doubtful of [Reed's availability for the season opener] at all based on what we've been told by the doctors," Harbaugh said after today's practice. "I understand as an athlete, you want it to be right."

(baltimoresun.com)

Willis McGahee will undergo an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee as soon as today, and will be out between two and four weeks. While new Ravens coach John Harbaugh told the Baltimore Sun that he expects his starting running back to return in time for Week 1 against the Bengals, there are reasons to be slightly concerned about McGahee.

First of all, this procedure -- termed a "cleanup" by Harbaugh -- is on the same knee that suffered catastrophic damage in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl, when McGahee was rushing for the University of Miami and caught a shoulder square against the joint. Second, McGahee had already come under a bit of criticism for skipping offseason workouts with the team as Cam Cameron's new offense was being installed, for showing up to training camp a bit overweight and out of shape, and for not being completely familiar with Cameron's playbook. Third, there have been puff pieces galore in the Baltimore media about rookie Ray Rice, and how much the team absolutely adores him. And finally, in both '06 and '07, McGahee battled several minor injuries that kept him out of games and caused him to underachieve in games which he did play, leaving the question about how fast a healer he really is unanswered.

Now, Harbaugh told the media in no uncertain terms Monday that McGahee was still his starter, and that Rice's role as a supplemental back hasn't changed one iota as a result of this surgery. But I've got enough concerns that I've dropped McGahee below Ryan Grant and Jamal Lewis to 13th on my running back list. I don't think he can be considered a first-round fantasy pick in any but the very deepest of leagues, despite how well he came on late in '07 -- scoring a touchdown in seven consecutive games and catching a career-high 43 passes. In addition, it's clearer than ever that Rice has become one of the more ironclad handcuffs around: if you do wind up selecting McGahee, make sure you get the Rutgers rookie. He isn't big and he isn't a burner, but he's a tough tackle-breaker and finds holes with deceptive quickness that could help him be a legit rusher on first and second downs if McGahee can't stay healthy.

(espn.com)

The Carroll County Times reports Baltimore Ravens RB Willis McGahee (left knee) will definitely be out for Thursday night's preseason opener against the New England Patriots with a left knee injury. "We decided to take about a week and work the knee, strengthen it, get the swelling down and get him back after the game," Ravens HC John Harbaugh said. Rookie RB Ray Rice, who has been one of the stars of training camp, will start in his place. "He's a rookie, but, gosh, he's had a lot of carries his whole career," Harbaugh said. "As a running back, he's a veteran. It will be new for him playing against an NFL defense, particularly that defense, and it will be interesting to see how he'll do. But I'd be surprised if he's not up to the task." When McGahee returns, the Ravens envision Rice operating as a complementary presence in the backfield. "Willis is our back, no question about it," Harbaugh said. "You need at least two good backs to get through an NFL season. Most offenses would prefer to have an explosive weapon like Ray to throw in there, no question." Added Rice: "I'm looking forward to his return to see how good a duo we could be."

(ffmastermind.com)

Don Markus, of the Baltimore Sun, reports Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said Tuesday, Aug. 5, that RB Willis McGahee (knee) would be out for about a week, but he might make a quicker recovery if RB Ray Rice has a big debut Thursday, Aug. 7.


(kffl.com)

There is a "possibility" that Willis McGahee could be sidelined for Thursday's preseason opener and rookie Ray Rice will start at running back, Ravens coach John Harbaugh said after Sunday's practice.

McGahee has missed a large portion of training camp with a left knee injury.

"Right now, we need to get the fluid out of his knee and get that thing settled down a little bit," Harbaugh said.

(baltimoresun.com)

Willis McGahee is being held out of Ravens practices with a lower leg injury. Coach John Harbaugh says "I don’t know what the term is on him."
Although he made it through most of last year unscathed, minor nagging injuries are nothing new for McGahee, who sometimes seems to lack pain tolerance. This will give Ray Rice a chance to take quality reps with the first unit.

(rotoworld.com)

Taking a handoff in the first contact practice of training camp, Willis McGahee hit the hole only to get stripped of the ball.

If that wasn't humiliating enough, cornerback Corey Ivy shouted across the field, "Get 'em here on time, running back coach."

McGahee was one of the last players to arrive to morning practice Friday, again raising questions about the mercurial running back's commitment to the team.

Because McGahee skipped most of the offseason workouts this year and struggled to stay on the field last season, it wouldn't come as a surprise if the Ravens decreased McGahee's workload, especially after drafting Ray Rice in the second round.
Instead, the Ravens are planning to increase it.

"There is no question in my mind that Willis McGahee can be a three-down back," offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said. "I think this is the right time in his career to do it. With his ability, there is no reason why he shouldn't excel on three downs."

McGahee was on the field only for first and second downs last season, when the Ravens used Musa Smith as the third-down back.

As a result, McGahee only had 337 touches, which ranked seventh among the NFL's top 10 rushers last season.

There were times when he asked for breathers during a game, which caused some to question whether he was in optimal shape. In his return game to Buffalo, he was given fluids intravenously after a 46-yard touchdown run.

"The goal for me is to stay on the field," McGahee said. "I didn't stay on the field as much last year. [But] that's last year, and this is a whole new year."

This has already been a different year for McGahee.

Last offseason, he lived up to his promise about coming to most of the voluntary workouts. This spring, he went back to his routine that was heavily criticized during his time in Buffalo, attending one voluntary minicamp and the mandatory one.

His absence could have affected his practice Friday, when he fumbled an exchange with quarterback Troy Smith in one drill and then coughed it up again trying to get through the line of scrimmage in another one.

Running backs coach Wilbert Montgomery said McGahee is "playing catch-up" because he wasn't around this offseason.

"If he wasn't the athlete that we all know he is, it would be frustrating," Montgomery said. "It still is kind of frustrating right now because we're trying to teach him, and it's just not coming as fast as you would like it to. But you know it will come."

McGahee is confident that he'll learn the system because that's what he has done his entire career.

He has had a different head coach the past four seasons.

"I get a new playbook every year, so it's something I'm used to," McGahee said. "[But] this is the first offensive coordinator I've had that uses the tailback this much."

If McGahee wants to thrive in this increased role, he'll have to be in excellent shape, which has become a hot topic this offseason.

At a minicamp in late May, first-year Ravens coach John Harbaugh pointed out that McGahee needed to get into "football shape." McGahee said he weighed in at training camp at 236 pounds and wanted to get to 230 pounds by the start of the season.

"He looked good," Harbaugh said. "He got through the practice and was strong throughout the whole practice."

While there have been questions about whether he has the stamina to be an every-down back, there have been no doubts about whether he has the talent to play on third downs.

Cameron and Ravens players have been impressed with McGahee's ability to catch the ball. He made a career-high 43 receptions last season after never catching more than 28 in his previous three seasons.

"He's not a two-down back," wide receiver Derrick Mason said. "He's the kind of back that you can have him in there to pound the ball for first and second down. But you can split him out on a linebacker and safety and he can still make a play."

When Cameron was the San Diego Chargers' offensive coordinator from 2002 to 2006, he consistently used running back LaDainian Tomlinson in the passing game. In Cameron's system, Tomlinson averaged 67.8 receptions.

Cameron foresees a similar impact with McGahee.

"The sky is the limit as to what kind of receiver he can be," Cameron said.

But after fumbling twice Friday, McGahee understands he has to make some strides before he can reach that potential.

"I know I'm rusty," McGahee said. "I know I'm not going to come to training camp and be on point. That's hard, and I've got to work to that level."

(baltimoresun.com)

The Ravens have given Rice a lot of attention during the past two days. Though Willis McGahee is the starting running back, the Ravens don't have total trust in him. He's a little flaky.

The Ravens brought in Rice as an insurance policy, someone who can push McGahee because of Rice's strong work ethic. The Ravens aren't afraid of Rice's lack of size.

(baltimoresun.com)

6. Willis McGahee, Baltimore Ravens. On an offense that can only run the ball, McGahee was the runner. He is a versatile rusher who can attack the edges as well as take on defenders between the tackles.

7. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers. Gore has carried his team in recent seasons and established himself as one of the league's premier backs with little help. With Mike Martz in the fold as the Niners' offensive coordinator, look for Gore to become a force once again as a dual threat runner and receiver.

12. Clinton Portis, Washington Redskins. Another back who is a tremendous fit for the zone-blocking scheme. Portis is a power runner with the vision and cutback ability to find daylight and get to and through linebackers.

14. Edgerrin James, Arizona Cardinals. Although James is on the downside of his career, he is still a productive runner who will benefit from the run-first mentality in Arizona.

Click here to see the rest of the rankings.

The Baltimore Sun reports Ravens new HC John Harbaugh is concerned about RB Willis McGahee's conditioning. McGahee was not an every-down running back last season, and he asked for breathers during games. Then, he skipped most of this year's offseason minicamps. It didn't go unnoticed - Harbaugh pointed out that the team needs to get McGahee in "football shape." The Ravens drafted RB Ray Rice in the second round to spell MaGahee, but he could have a bigger impact than what many expect. Some have compared Rice to the Jacksonville Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew.

(ffmastermind.com)

Whatchu talkin bout? Willis!

As we fast approach the 2008 NFL season, the message to new head coach John Harbaugh should be clear: Lean on #23. With more uncertainly at the quarterback position than ever before, the burden now falls squarely on the shoulders of second-year Raven Willis McGahee. While showing flashes of brilliance in a dismal 2007 season, McGahee should have no problem accepting a greater role in 2008.

Jamal Lewis is happily bowling over defenders in Cleveland for a dynamic passing offense, but McGahee has no such luxury. He will face plenty of eight- and nine-man fronts this season, much like he did in Buffalo.

Simply eclipsing the 1,000-yard mark is no longer an entity in the NFL. Should McGahee reach that mark in '08, it will not automatically ensure the Ravens of success. Just as important will be the number of total touches he gets, and how often he makes the key runs. Moving the chains may prove to be difficult in the passing game, and with the QB position still up for grabs despite the Ravens inking first round pick, Joe Flacco to a 5year, $30 million dollar contract, it will only make it all the more crucial that McGahee is the feature offensive threat on the ground.

Keep an eye on McGahee's increased workload this year. Should he flourish under the circumstances, the 2008 campaign for the Ravens will help ease the painful memories of last year's 5-11 debacle.

(roberts-rants.blogspot.com)

BALTIMORE -- Baltimore Ravens running back Willis McGahee, now in his second season with the team, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch when the Baltimore Orioles play the Boston Red Sox on Sunday at Camden Yards.

McGahee will be accompanied by a group of inner-city kids whose families have been affected by domestic violence, a cause he has dedicated his Foundation’s (The Willis McGahee Foundation) efforts to raising funds and awareness for. The tickets for the kids were made possible through the Foundation.

“Although I have only been with the Ravens for a short time, I already feel like Baltimore is my home,” said McGahee. “It is an honor to throw out the first pitch for a team so entrenched in the community and to provide these kids with an opportunity to see the game and forget some of their troubles.”

(wbaltv.com)

The Ravens have reportedly been a little concerned with Willis McGahee’s conditioning this offseason after missing several practices.

The veteran RB has now reported and begun practicing, however, so this should be a non-issue as training camp nears. We expect big things from McGahee in Cam Cameron’s offense this year.

(no-offseason.com)

Former Ravens coach Brian Billick often had to pull Willis McGahee in the fourth quarter of games last year due to poor conditioning.
Poor conditioning won't fly under new coach Jim Harbaugh, whose offseason program has already been more intense than anything Billick ran. Training camp will likely be much tougher under the ex-Eagles special teams coach

(rotoworld.com)