Flacco Named Starter For Rest of Season

Nobody really knew what to expect from the rookie quarterback coming into the 2008 season but I'm pretty sure this wasn't really the highest vote-getter of possibilities.

Joe Flacco, leading the Ravens to a respectable record of 2-2, was named the starter for the rest season by head coach John Harbaugh yesterday. Flacco has done exactly what the Ravens have needed from a quarterback the last few years, being consistent, not trying to play out of his ability and avoiding the big mistakes.

Obviously this news isn't the best for second year quarterback Troy Smith who was next in line to take the starting position for the Ravens before all hell broke loose with his immune system. Smith suffered a severe case of tonsillitis and had a blood clot in his neck that caused him to lose 20 pounds before the season started and stick the former Heisman Trophy winner on the bench. Now, with Flacco being the man, Smith will have to accept the role as backup quarterback for another season.

"That'll be [Smith's] role this year - possibly into a role where he can contribute playing quarterback for us down the road," Harbaugh said.

Flacco was slowly brought into the league by competitive standpoints, getting wins against the Bengals and Browns to start the season. After that, the rookie from Delaware was tossed directly into the snake pit, going on the road against Pittsburgh and at home against the undefeated Titans last week. Flacco has yet to throw for over 200 yards in a game and has four interceptions to only one touchdown, but has taken this role thrown at him in stride.

Asked about his comfort level knowing he has the job, Flacco said: "That's the way I've been approaching it. [I try to] get better each week and go out there and help this team win."

The road will get a touch bumpier before it smooths, going on the road this week against an Indianapolis team before the Ravens get four winnable games in a row against Miami, Oakland, Cleveland and Houston.