So we know the Ravens can run the ball. With their interesting technique of putting a backup tackle at tight end and therefore lining up with 6 offensive linemen, they demonstrate just how committed they are to pounding opposing defenses. And guess what? Willis McGahee is a fraud with a history of injuries. He might even be cut. LeRon McClain is going to be the fullback and short yardage back, as he put on some weight in the off-season. But the 2008 2nd round draft pick of the Baltimore Ravens- Ray Rice- is going to explode onto the scene in 2009.

First, I expect Ray Rice to be the starter. Second, I think the Ravens have a very good offensive line. Third, I am surprised and impressed with Rice’s ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. Until I looked at the stats, I had no clue Rice ended the season with 33 catches.

In 2008, Rice carried 107 times for 454 yards a (4.2 avg.) and had 33 catches for 273. The only problem was he didn’t reach pay dirt. However, the flipside of not reaching the end zone was that he only fumbled once all season, gaining confidence from his coaching staff. I do not think Ray Rice will become a TD machine. McClain will still get the short yardage TD’s, but Rice has 1500 total yards written all over him. Yes, you heard me: 1500 total yards AND 50 catches!! He is this year’s Matt Forte. Is 1500 yards that much of a reach for a player that totaled 727 yards last year as a rookie and a backup? I don’t think so.

It’s not as if Rice isn’t durable. In 2007 for Rutgers he carried the ball 380 times for 2,012 yards and 24 tds. To be honest, his body probably needed the lighter workload as he carried the ball 910 times in his 3 year college playing career. Even at Rutgers he showed he could catch the ball as he caught 25 passes in 2007 for 239 yards with a 9.6 YPC avg.
My prediction is 1250 yards, 4 tds, and 50 receptions for 300 yards and 1 td. Don’t let someone else steal him. He is the kind of player that makes your fantasy year. Call him this year’s Matt Forte, call him the Frank Gore of 2006, or call him what you want. Point is, he’ll be a valuable fantasy running back.


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