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Breaking Down: How Steve Smith Has Remained Effective With the Ravens

During his prime with the Panthers, Steve Smith’s speed helped him become an elite threat. But when receivers get into their 30s, they have to adjust their games to make up for their dwindling athleticism. Smith’s done exactly that in Baltimore by channeling his aggression with balance:

NFL.com
NFL.com
In the GIF above, you can see Smith lined up in the slot. Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco fires a quick pass and Smith picks up a first down and more. But his speed isn’t the reason why the play is successful.Smith wasn’t running away from anyone, and at 35, that’s not really an option. His ability to create chunk passing plays goes back to nonphysical factors.A different angle of the above reception provides a closer look:
NFL.com
NFL.com
Smith has used three attributes to create big plays this season.First, his balance allows him to stay on his feet. Smith’s cuts aren’t as lethal as Panthers fans will remember, but his balance gives him an edge over many defenders.Second, now in his 14th season, Smith has mastered angles. His hesitation as Steelers safety Troy Polamalu comes across the field gives him enough leverage to break a tackle.Lastly, Smith’s controlled aggression brings everything together. He’s well known for his anger, but he’s done an excellent job staying in control. He’s running with his familiar rage and energy, but he isn’t reckless with his movements.By mixing controlled aggression with balance and intelligence, Smith remains a deadly threat.


 The Trust of His Quarterback

Flacco has always leaned on veteran wideouts. First it was Derrick Mason, and then Anquan Boldin. Now Smith is Flacco’s safety net.Receiver Torrey Smith was supposed to be the top target under new offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak, but through three weeks, Steve Smith is by far and away the Ravens’ top wideout.Here’s why:

NFL.com
NFL.com
Smith runs a deep route on a play-action pass. The Browns have good coverage on the back end, and the Flacco doesn’t have a clear read. He has to fall away from the line of scrimmage to buy himself some time.But Flacco’s eyes are important to note. While he scans the field for an open target, he keeps coming back to No. 89. At the last possible moment, he heaves a pass to Smith. The big money quarterback has enough faith in his new, but veteran receiver to make a big money play. Smith rewards that confidence by winning the jump ball.It’s clear Flacco trusts Smith, and that trust has allowed their bond to grow quickly.


 Putting It All Together

Even at 35, Smith still has a highly effective mix of technique, toughness and athleticism. He used all of those attributes to make this clutch catch during the Ravens’ game-winning drive in Week 3:

full play
NFL.com
Even though Smith is going against Pro Bowl cornerback Joe Haden, Flacco trusts his veteran receiver to make a play. Smith’s execution is flawless:
NFL.com
NFL.com
Smith wins this route from the start. He makes a slight movement at the line of scrimmage to get Haden turned around. As Haden attempts to recover his positioning, Smith channels his inner athlete and technician, and he uses a slight arm-bar to create more space.Smith tracks the ball over his outside shoulder and hauls in the catch between two defenders. He displays his unique toughness to hang on despite taking a solid hit.Even Smith’s biggest backers may be surprised by his effectiveness since moving to Baltimore. But he’s still a very good player, and he’ll be out for blood on Sunday.The Panthers will have their hands full dealing with a man — an angry and vengeful man — who is still quite capable of playing at a high level.

BBR NUGGETS

  • It appears Thomas Davis will play Sunday. Jonathan Stewart is a long shot, but Friday was still a big step. — BBR
  • The softer side of Steve SmithCharlotte Magazine
  • Former Alabama linebacker hopes to get some hits on former Auburn quarterback. — AL.com
  • Another Panthers/Ravens reunion. — ESPN.com
  • Panthers Vs. AFC North. — AP

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