The Ravens Might Be Spreading Their Wings and Taking Flight in 2008

Even though they dumped an offensive "genius" from the head coaching spot, the Ravens could come out with a much more aggressive offensive style in 2008. Word from this weekend's minicamp is that new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron is seriously considering using three wide receivers in the team's base formation.

There's a couple of reasons why that's a curious choice. For one, the presumed trio of Derrick Mason, Demetrius Williams and Mark Clayton combined to score five touchdowns in 2007, all by Mason, and struggled to gain yards after the catch. Mason did catch 103 passes while the other two battled injuries and all three had to deal with some of the worst quarterbacking in the league but it's not a unit that strikes a lot of fear into the hearts of opposing defenses.

That quarterbacking problem is the other reason it's an odd direction. A spread formation would require quick, well chosen passes and I don't think anyone expects that kind of production from Kyle Boller. Troy Smith may have those skills but he's untested as is first-rounder Joe Flacco. Flacco's arm strength is his strong suit but he may not get to show it off in an offense predicated on timing not verticality.

Assuming they work out those issues, though, Willis McGahee would benefit from such an alignment. A spread out defense should offer him space to maneuver and help avoid the grinding that takes a toll on his body.