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Baltimore Ravens: 5 Players Who Will Shine in Week 1


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Baltimore Ravens: 5 Players Who Will Shine in Week 1

Raven
Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

You can now count down the days on one hand. Kickoff of the 2013 NFL season is just around the bend. The Baltimore Ravens open on the road in the mile-high city of Denver. What a way to open the season. This game could very well set the course for the entire season. There is no stronger offense in the AFC than the Denver Broncos. This a true test for the Ravens’ Defense; if they can put a hold on Peyton Manning and his minions at home, they will send a statement across the league that Baltimore should not be taken lightly.

The Offense needs to send out a message as well. With the departure of Anquan Boldin, the loss of Dennis Pitta and all of the new additions, the Ravens are looking to prove they can still go blow for blow against the mind of Manning. Joe Flacco has to coral his troops and find chemistry with someone other than his now absent security blanket, Pitta. There are plenty of haters out there saying that Baltimore will go 7-9 this year but I am here to tell you that will not happen.

I have a few resilient Ravens who will step into the spotlight for their fallen or departed brethren in Week 1. Some of these men have fought and clawed their way into starter status while others have been simply asked to step up in place of a fallen comrades; some have even been asked to share the load and make the best out of every opportunity. Today, I present to you five guys who will know what’s on the line and will ensure victory is obtained.

Jermaine Lockett is a writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter, like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

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No. 5 McKinnie will Keep Joe Clean

McKINNNIE
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Bryant McKinnie Look for Joe Flacco to be standing strong in the pocket full of confidence; this will due to the strong massive Bryant McKinnie anchoring the blindside. We all know that no news is good news when it comes to linemen so look for a quiet shining evening from McKinnie.

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No. 4 Ihedigbo will Dance All Night

Ihedigbo
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

This shovel dancing freak of nature out shined first-rounder Matt Elam for the starting spot at Strong Safety. Stay tuned as James Ihedigbo lays the wood on the Denver backfield.

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No. 3 Dickson will Prove His Worth

Dickson
Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

With big shoes to fill, Ed Dickson will make a statement to the Denver Broncos as well as the league that he is a playmaker. Sure, he doesn’t go to lunch with Joe or shave his face in accordance with “Flacco-Pitta” standards, but this TE will do great Week 1.

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No. 2 Graham Aspires to Rattle Manning

Graham
Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Corey Graham already capitalized on Peyton Manning twice in the divisional round. Look for him to get some more action in his direction with Lardarius Webb back in the lineup.

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No. 1 Bernard Pierce will Produce in Mass Chunks

Pierce
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

This second-year back looks to take a few carries away from Ray Rice and make the most out of them. Look for Bernard Pierce to see plenty of real estate in the upcoming game.



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