We Were Right About Smith & Jones

June 6, 2008 at 9:17 am | Article by Paul Hickey |

We know, we know - We Were Right About, We Were Wrong About about is reserved for the NFL season only, but when we report something and then several weeks later, guys like Adam Schefter from NFL Network report the same thing, it gives us a feeling of validation. In this case there are two reports this week that have surfaced. One is the development of Ravens QB Troy Smith and the increasing possibility that the Ravens have found a perfect fit and future starter in him. The other is that Mike Holmgren was totally bluffing when he said he’d use a running back committee with Julius Jones, Maurice Morris and T.J. Duckett.

Let’s start with the Smith situation. A few weeks ago, we reported that Troy Smith would start Week 1 for the Baltimore Ravens. Not only did he finish last season strong, but he has really picked up their offense this off-season under new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. Smith has always been knocked down by folks who criticize his height, but in actuality, he has a very similar skill set to Donovan McNabb. We all know that the real x-factor for QBs though, is their ability to pick up offenses, and read defenses.

Keep in mind that the former Heisman trophy winner faces the league’s best defense every day in practice as well. Step one is winning the starting job. Step two is showing that he can connect with Ravens WRs downfield, and make things happen with his feet. Joe Flacco is waiting in the wings, playing very well at this point in time also, but really, the Ravens need someone to step up and start while Flacco learns, and Smith could be the perfect guy. If so, does that create a situation similar to Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn in Cleveland? Well, it depends on just how well Smith plays in 2008. We’re known for going out on a limb with predictions, but here’s one that we’ll stand by - Troy Smith will be the Ravens starter in 2008, and play well. However, his dynasty value will be stunted by the fact that Flacco is waiting in the wings and will take over in 2009. Look for Smith to be a decent bye week and injury fill in at some points in 2008.

As for us calling out Mike Holmgren on his coachspeak a few weeks back, that’s one we’re particularly proud of. He mentioned to the media that Julius Jones would be part of a running back committee with Maurice Morris and T.J. Duckett. We called bluff immediately, and it appears we were right. This week, reports have come out of Seattle stating that Jones is looking great in pass protection, and appears to be the Seahawks best receiver out of the backfield. Although he faltered in Dallas, he has a fresh start, and appears on his way to earning the lion’s share of the load in Seattle. In fact, we’re going to guarantee that if he stays healthy, he will be Seattle’s featured back, making him a solid RB3 and flex option in all leagues. If you’re wondering where all of this confidence in Jones is coming from, consider the fact that he has a HUGE chip on his shoulder right now, after Dallas didn’t even make him an offer. Seattle is a team that is in the exact same spot as Dallas - both feel they underachieved last year when they each had a really good shot at getting to the Super Bowl. Don’t think Jones won’t be committed and do everything in his power to prove himself in 2008. In many ways, it’s a make or break year for him if he wants to continue to be an NFL starter. We like his chances.