Smith Will Quarterback The Ravens
Troy Smith will start for the Ravens with Kyle Boller still out following a concussion.
(By Doug Benc -- Getty Images)
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Friday, December 21, 2007
OWINGS MILLS, Md., Dec. 20 -- Rookie quarterback Troy Smith will make his first NFL start Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, Baltimore Ravens Coach Brian Billick confirmed Thursday.
With Kyle Boller missing his second consecutive day of practice because of lingering effects from a concussion, including headaches and sensitivity to light, the Ravens will start the former Heisman Trophy winner from Ohio State.
"With Kyle, it would be problematic for him on Sunday, so, hopefully, he will be available to back up," Billick said. "Missing two days of practice would make it tough. We're certainly not going to put him at risk."
Billick acknowledged that Smith may start this game and the regular-season finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
"Concussions are very unpredictable," Billick said.
If Boller is unavailable to be the backup, then the Ravens would likely promote undrafted rookie Cullen Finnerty (Grand Valley State) from the practice squad. Wide receiver Mark Clayton is a potential emergency option.
Meanwhile, the Ravens aren't as concerned as they would normally be with an inexperienced signal-caller. Smith rushed for a touchdown in his NFL debut against the Indianapolis Colts and directed a game-tying drive in regulation in a 22-16 overtime loss to the Miami Dolphins
"He's a very strong personality," Billick said. "If things get ugly with him, he'll be all right through whatever happens. He's a very strong-willed young man."
