Ravens head coach Brian Billick said there was no doubt offensive coordinator Jim Fassel calls the plays Thursday.
Billick, once noted for his animated give-and-take with the media, has been quick and toned-down with his post-practice media conferences so far this year. When asked about a column that appeared in Thursday?s Sun that said Billick took over play-calling inside the 20-yard-line last season, the old Billick showed up.
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“Jim made it very clear, twice. Jim called every play last year, virtually every play,” Billick said. “He made it very clear. He repeated himself twice. Jim?s saying, ?I called virtually every play last year.? Now, you can?t be more direct and honest than that. I don?t want to get all confrontational, and the new me is not going to do it, but if you ask a direct question and we give you a direct answer, are you not incumbent to put it out there?”
Officials Make The Call: NFL referee Tony Steratore and other NFL officials took part in Thursday?s workouts, giving the team a glimpse of what to look for on the field. The officials are scheduled to return today and for Saturday?s scrimmage with the Redskins.
“Hearing it from them, and I don?t know if our guys listen, but it?s another set of eyes for them,” Billick said.
Steratore went over several rule changes for 2006. Of note: an even stronger enforcement on hits below a quarterback?s knee when he?s in the act of throwing and tighter scrutiny on celebrations with props. Perhaps the biggest change will be that coaches can challenge fumbles previously ruled down by contact.
Star of the Day: Todd Heap, one of the best pass-catching tight ends in the NFL, was impressive scoring multiple touchdowns Thursday. Heap has shown early chemistry with new quarterback Steve McNair.
Area boy presents check to Mulitalo: Cody Gelvar, a Sudbrook Magnet Middle School student, presented Edwin Mulitalo $1,000 and musical instruments for his music-in-schools foundation. Gelvar collected five new and used instruments and the money as part of his bar mitzvah community service project.
