Rookie safety Tom Zbikowski appears to be playing more like a veteran everyday.
The third-round pick from Notre Dame turned in his best performance of the preseason Saturday in the a 24-10 loss at the St. Louis Rams, as he followed his block punt with an interception.
Zbikowski’s performance could help him earn more playing time, especially on defense where he is competing at safety with fellow rookie Haruki Nakamura and veteran Jim Leonhard. Zbikowski, a third-round draft pick, has started the Ravens’ first three games, as Pro Bowl starter Ed Reed (shoulder) has not been cleared to participate in contact drills.
“Those live reps getting into those games have really helped my progression,” Zbikowski, has six tackles and a pass deflection in three preseason games, said. “Seeing that speed on special teams and how plays develop. Doing that continuously helps you transfer what you have learned on the practice field to the game field.”
SECONDARY PRIMARY CONCERN: With Reed and cornerback Chris McAlister sidelined with injuries, the secondary has been vulnerable during the preseason. The Ravens rank 21st out of 32 in passing yards allowed per game (202.3) after the Rams through for 298 yards and two touchdowns on Saturday.
Reserve cornerbacks Corey Ivy and Frank Walker have both had their struggles and Fabian Washington is dealing with a mild hamstring and shoulder injury. Derrick Martin continues to be sidelined with a shoulder injury and is not expected to play against the Falcons on Thursday.
“Chris practiced on the walk-through here this morning, and he’s going to work to some extent [Monday] in practice,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “So, he’s working to get back, and we will just have to see how his knee responds to it. Samari Rolle looks good. Fabian Washington has a hamstring tweak, so we are going to give him a rest for a couple of days here and see how that progresses.”
BIG OPTION: Fullback Le’Ron McClain’s performance against the Rams proved the Ravens have depth at running back. The second-year player rushed for a team-high 41 yards on six carries, as the 260-pounder took advantage of running behind Pro Bowl fullback Lorenzo Neal.
“Le’Ron was excited,” Harbaugh said. “Le’Ron didn’t want to come out of the game. That happens to a running back when he’s getting the ball. He was excited, and it looked good.”
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