Walker's weekend mailbag

August, 22, 2009
Aug 22
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By James Walker

Posted by ESPN.com's James Walker

Let's see what's on the minds of ESPN.com readers this week.

Mike from Columbus, Ohio, writes: If the offense Eric Mangini wants to run is more suited to Quinn's ability, then why do we have this game of dueling quarterbacks? Why not just hand the offense over to Quinn and allow him to get more reps with the first team and gain some confidence and chemistry with the receivers?

James Walker: Eventually that will be the case, Mike. I've predicted in the spring that Cleveland's offensive system will help separate the two and make Brady Quinn the best fit for the Browns. But Mangini wants to give both quarterbacks enough opportunities. I don't see anything wrong with that because much of Cleveland's season will depend on Mangini making the right call. The first game for the Browns isn't until Sept. 13 against the Minnesota Vikings, so there is still time left to give one quarterback all the first-team reps once a decision is made.


Brian from West Chester, Pa., writes: You've mentioned before the rule that once a 3rd string QB is put in the 1st string QB cannot play again in the game, particularly in reference to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Dennis Dixon. I was wondering if there is any reason, aside from possibly politics, not to make Dixon number 2 and Charlie Batch number 3? If Batch comes in it means Ben Roethlisberger was hurt or is struggling or there is a huge lead, in either case you wouldn't want Ben back in anyway. However with Dixon you would want him in for 'trick' plays and then Ben back in. Is this thinking correct?

James Walker: The thinking isn't correct for the Steelers, Brian. They see no reason to give Dixon the No. 2 job unless he earns it, and that means beating out Batch. So far, Dixon hasn't done that because Batch is having a better training camp. There are also instances during a game when a quarterback gets dinged, not seriously injured, and may have to leave for a series or two. Would you want to keep Roethlisberger on the sideline the entire game if it's not necessary, or play Dixon instead even though he's not the "backup" quarterback? It would be a lot of unnecessary things to think about. As far as trick plays, Pittsburgh offensive coordinator Bruce Arians already shot down the notion of running a Wildcat offense several times. Arians doesn't believe in it, although a very, very small part of me is a little skeptical and believes this could be a case of smoke and mirrors to maintain a competitive advantage. Maybe I've been around Eric Mangini too much this offseason, where I've had to analyze and overanalyze every word from coaches.


Mathew from Clay Center, Neb., writes: Is there any chance that Andre Smith makes it into camp before the regular season starts? If not, will he be able to have a chance to start at all this season?

James Walker: There is always a chance, Mathew. But right now things aren't looking good. The Darrius Heyward-Bey deal with the Oakland Raiders at No. 7 was a very good one and raised the market somewhat for Smith at No. 6. And the Bengals are not the kind of team to raise their price because of the market. But I've seen harsh negotiations turn for the better quickly. As soon as both sides are willing to bend, a compromise can be reached. Smith will be in the starting lineup at some point, because he is one of Cincinnati's five best linemen. But when that happens is really up to Smith, the length of his holdout and how prepared he is when he joins the team.


Jared from Baltimore, Md., writes: James, Do you think Ladarius Webb will fight his way into the nickel back role? The kid looks like he can become the real deal.

James Walker: The Ravens like Webb's abilities but he is still a rookie with a lot to learn. If healthy, the nickel job likely will go to cornerback Samari Rolle, who is a veteran and has earned the trust of the coaching staff. Chris Carr also is in the mix. But all Webb has to do is keep making plays and he will earn that trust and a larger role.


Austin from Clemson, S.C., writes: James, Rex Ryan should have learned in Baltimore to never give the Ravens bulletin-board material. The Ravens will blow out the New York Jets to prove a point.

James Walker: It's just the second preseason game, Austin. I don't believe the Ravens are approaching Monday's game any different beyond getting their work in and evaluating their roster for the regular season. Actually, I was more surprised Ryan made this exhibition game so personal on his end. Even the always excitable Bart Scott was low key about it, because it's just the preseason.

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