Everything is set up for Hauschka to finally claim the position over rookie Graham Gano. However, Hauschka can’t afford another short miss like the 27-yarder he nervously pushed wide right last week against the Carolina Panthers. If all goes according to plan, he’ll be anointed as the successor to Matt Stover as soon as Friday. There has been no recent contact between the Ravens and Stover, Stover told the 24×7 in a text message.
2. Has Kelley Washington beaten out Demetrius Williams for the third wide receiver spot?
It certainly looks that way. It will be interesting to see how Williams reacts to the apparent demotion. Washington has simply had a stronger, more productive training camp and preseason than Williams. Nothing is written in stone, though, and Williams could gain back his old spot behind Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton if he displays some consistency and game-breaking ability.
3. Who are some of the guys on the roster bubble on offense?
Running backs Jalen Parmele, Matt Lawrence and Cedric Peerman, fullback Jason Cook, wide receivers Justin Harper, Jayson Foster, Yamon Figurs and Ernie Wheelwright, tight ends Edgar Jones and Davon Drew and offensive linemen Joe Reitz and David Hale
4. Who are some of the guys on the roster bubble on defense?
Defensive tackle Kelly Talavou, linebackers Jason Phillips, Dannell Ellerbe, Prescott Burgess and William VanDeSteeg, cornerback Frank Walker and safety-cornerback Derrick Martin. It looks like reserve outside linebacker Antwan Barnes has earned a roster spot after an encouraging preseason and offseason.
5. Who’s not likely to play tonight?
Not expected to play: wide receiver Mark Clayton (strained hamstring), tight end L.J. Smith (pulled hamstring) and offensive tackle Oniel Cousins (sprained ankle). Regarded as questionable: nose guard Kelly Gregg (shoulder sprain), cornerback Chris Carr (quadriceps), linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (sprained medial collateral ligament), offensive tackle Jared Gaither (trapezius), right guard Chris Chester (sprained calf) and safety Ed Reed (nerve impingement).
