Posted by ESPN.com's James Walker
Here are the most interesting stories Friday in the AFC North:
- The Baltimore Ravens pounded the Washington Redskins 23-0 in their preseason opener.
Morning take: Quarterback Joe Flacco got off to a good start to his sophomore campaign by throwing to six different receivers for 103 yards. But one receiver, Marcus Smith, went down with a serious knee injury.
- The rookies stole the spotlight for the Pittsburgh Steelers during their 20-10 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
Morning take: If the veteran-laden Steelers can get production from their rookie class this season, that is not a good sign for the rest of the league.
- Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Robert Geathers is trying to become a young leader on the defensive line.
Morning take: If Geathers can get back to his form of 2006 (10.5 sacks), Cincinnati's pass rush would take a major step forward this season.
- Cleveland Browns rookie center Alex Mack could get welcome relief Saturday against the Green Bay Packers.
Morning take: The first-round pick has struggled in training camp, but it's relative because Mack is getting reps against Pro Bowl nose tackle Shaun Rogers. How Mack plays this weekend against lesser foes could be a more accurate gauge.
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James Walker
Walker joined ESPN.com in 2008 after three seasons covering the Cleveland Browns for the Columbus Dispatch. He also covered the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Cavaliers at the Dispatch. Walker grew up in Hyattsville, Md., before attending Temple University, graduating in 2001 with a B.A. in communications and mass media. He resides in the Cleveland area.