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QB Joe Flacco, Baltimore Ravens

HT: 6-6, WT: 236, Born: 1-16-1985, College: Delaware, Drafted: Round 1, Pick 18

2008 Projections

Best Case

The best case scenario for Joe Flacco would be a display of sufficient accuracy and smarts to push Kyle Boller aside during training camp and win the starting role. To be a productive member of your fantasy squad, however, there are a few other things that need to break. First and foremost is a healthy Todd Heap. The success of the passing game trickles down from Heap's ability. Second, Derrick Mason must continue to defy the aging process and repeat his 2007 performance. Third, Mark Clayton must play like he did in 2006. Fourth, Demetrius Williams must live up to his potential as the Ravens' big-play threat. Fifth, the new regime under HC John Harbaugh must open the offense and allow Flacco to strike downfield. The Ravens' running game is top notch, so it is conceivable that Flacco will be inserted into the lineup early and tasked only with safe passing plays for a while. A mid-season push into starting fantasy lineups is Flacco's likely upside.

Worst Case

The worst case scenario for Joe Flacco would occur if the team feels he needs a year of sideline grooming before receiving significant playing time. If Boller is handling the offense competently, Flacco's on-field debut may be delayed until the last few games of the season. Moreover, even if he plays regularly, he could inherit a poorly designed passing offense. If thrown into the fire, his development could end up more like Alex Smith's than Carson Palmer's.

Outlook

Flacco has more upside fantasy potential than presumptive starter Kyle Boller. But, both he and the Ravens' new pass offense under John Harbaugh are unknown commodities. Harbaugh's background is on defense. Will he install Philadelphia's version of the West Coast Offense? Regardless of what scheme is employed, the team is likely to rely on their strong running game and solid defense to win games. Even if Flacco receives game experience early in the season, his likely production is unknown. It is not imperative to draft Flacco unless your league is exceptionally deep and most teams in your league regularly roster three quarterbacks.

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2008 Schedule