The Ravens need running back Jamal Lewis to get back on track tomorrow at Houston, because the Texans have some big-play cornerbacks who could dominate a receiving corps that has a tendency to disappear.
Rookie Ron Johnson has two catches to show for the past six games. Travis Taylor had five receptions for 83 yards against New Orleans on Sunday, but several devastating drops. Their production is a stark contrast to the clutch play of Houston cornerbacks Aaron Glenn and Marcus Coleman.
Glenn, a nine-year veteran, returned a pair of Tommy Maddox interceptions 70 and 65 yards for touchdowns that beat the Steelers in Pittsburgh last week. Coleman, another expansion draft pickup, is in his seventh year. He has only one interception, but a pair of fumble recoveries and 71 tackles have added to his intimidating presence.
"Glenn has been to a couple of Pro Bowls. He knows what it takes; been there, done that," Taylor said. "Coleman is a big guy, physical. It's one of the best duos in the league, and we have our work cut out for us. Anytime you have a challenge like these two guys, it's a game where everyone needs to pick it up. It's a game where we can show what we're capable of doing."
McAlister waiting
As of yesterday afternoon, cornerback Chris McAlister hadn't received any communication from the league office regarding a fine for his outburst against the Saints, when he ripped the helmet off of rookie Donte Stallworth and tossed it aside.
"Normally, it would be here by now," McAlister said of an impending fine notice. "I guess they're taking their time, making sure they hit me in the pocket enough."
Coach Brian Billick agreed a fine for McAlister was certain.
"They'll fine him, he'll appeal it. They'll deny it, he'll pay it," Billick said.
Back to Houston
With Ray Lewis done for the year, Jonathan Ogden and Matt Stover are the only men on the active roster who played in the Ravens' last visit to Houston. On Sept. 15, 1996, the franchise was playing its third game under the Ravens name. The Oilers were a lame-duck franchise, headed to Tennessee to become the Titans, and only 20,082 showed up to see Houston's 29-13 win.
"They had already announced they were leaving, and it was just a very ugly game," Stover said. "They had a great bunch of fans there. I played there [as a member of the Cleveland Browns and Ravens] from 1991 to '96 and remember Warren Moon and a lot of really good players."
Back to Brown
Kick returner Jermaine Lewis, who remains doubtful with an ankle injury, and linebacker Jamie Sharper aren't the only former Ravens on the Texans' roster. Tony Banks, who began the Super Bowl XXXV season as the starting quarterback, hasn't gotten a snap this season but is listed as Houston's backup quarterback.
"I'm glad Tony's still in the league," Billick said. "I'm sure he gave them a veteran presence ... on the offensive side."
Houston kicker Kris Brown continues to treat the Ravens well. He played for Pittsburgh last season, missing four field goals in a 13-10 loss to the Ravens, who became the first visitor to win at Heinz Field.
Brown was let go by the Steelers but returned last week and hit a 43-yarder into the treacherous open end at Heinz Field to make it a two-possession game with under four minutes left in the Texans' 24-6 upset.