Ravens head coach Brian Billick, with his usual candor, addressed the recent arrest of return specialist B.J. Sams on Thursday for driving under the influence.
Billick gave a canned response when asked to respond to Sams? off-the-field issues, saying, “we?ll let due process take care of itself. It?s unfortunate when players find themselves in this situation, and we?ll see how the process plays its way out.”
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When asked if he yelled at Sams privately for his second DUI arrest in as many years early Tuesday morning, Billick took it a step further.
“I?ll go back to the Chris Rock example,” Billick said, referencing the popular stand-up comedian. “You never disrespect someone and hit them, but you sure would like to shake the [expletive] out of them.”
Sams was not available for comment after Thursday?s practice. He walked off the field with teammates and did not talk to reporters.
Billick said Sams would likely continue his normal role of returning punts and kickoffs Monday against Denver and the rest of the season until the legal process is carried through.
The team does not expect the NFL to suspend Sams until the conclusion of legal proceedings.
Mile-High expectations: Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas is using a tent with less oxygen to simulate the atmosphere of the mountains of Colorado, but the Ravens (4-0) are not taking such extreme measures for their game with the Broncos (2-1).
“You?ve got to be out there a good 72 hours or beyond to offset that effect, or you get in as late as possible,” Billick said. “So we?re going in as late as we possibly can on Sunday.”
A prime-time battle: The Ravens are 4-2 in appearances on “Monday Night Football” since coming to Baltimore a decade ago.
The organization has been known for its defense, but the team?s offense has shown up for games on Monday night. The unit averages 295 yards, including 313.4 in the four victories, and has outscored opponents, 160-86, in six games.
The Broncos have been far more successful at home than on the road when playing Monday night games. They are 18-8-1 at home and 5-21 on the road during the NFL?s marquee showcase.
The Ravens would likely improve public perception among many NFL observers with a win, but Billick isn?t concerned with outside opinion.
“I don?t really care,” Billick said. “It?s great whatever the perception is or isn?t. What?s important is to get one more win and be 5-0.”
