Smith one of many uncomfortable with Cameron's complex offense

I used to coach semi-pro football. I had several players that couldn't remember their right from their left, so I used a permanent magic marker and put R and L on the toes of their shoes so that they would know which way to run.

The secret to getting the most out of a team - KISS - Keep It Simple Stupid. Cam Cameron, the genius that lead the Dolphins to a 1-15 season, now coordinates the offense for the Baltimore Ravens. Ravens’ veteran quarterback Steve McNair retired on Thursday; rumor has it that he took one look at Cam's offense and faxed his retirement papers to the NFL office.

Troy Smith for one is quoted by the Baltimore Sun as being more than a little frustrated with the new scheme. On one occasion, he slammed the ball to the ground after failing to find one of his targets. However, on another play he hit Demetrius Williams in stride for a TD.

Smith is not the only player that is less than thrilled with the new scheme. Derick Mason, the 12-year veteran wide receiver, told a Sun reporter that the offense is “fast and frustrating.”

The Ravens have an entirely new coaching staff. The team fired last year's staff after the team finished third in the AFC North. The new administration headed by first time head coach John Harbaugh signed last year's back up QB Kyle Boller to a one year contract. That indicates they are less than impressed with his performance last season. In 8 starts after McNair was hurt, Boller threw for 9 touchdowns but also gave up 10 interceptions and lost 4 fumbles. Smith started the last two games for the Ravens including the season ending win against the division champion Steelers.

There is a good chance that if Matt Ryan, the top rated quarterback in the draft from Boston College is available at the 7th choice, the Ravens will select him and probably cut Boller. If a QB is drafted later in the draft, the Ravens may keep Boller and let Smith compete with him for the starting spot in training camp.

By Bill Smith
Bill Smith is a former coach of several semi-pro teams and has scouted talent. He is a senior writer for BrutusReport.com and has published several novels on http://ebooks-library.com/index.cfm

Past articles from Smith:

• The best values in each round of the 2008 NFL Draft
• The best bargains of the 2008 NFL Draft

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