Ravens vs. Rams: 5 Halftime Observations for the Ravens

Ravens fans just let out a collective sight of relief. After laying an egg in Tennessee last week, the Ravens have come out firing on all cylinders and have absolutely shocked the Rams in St. Louis. 

While they won't need to make many adjustments heading in to the second half, let's take a look back at some of the key moments of the first half. 

1) Turtle Power

Former Maryland Terrapin Torrey Smith collected his first three catches of his NFL career today. Oh yea, and they were all touchdowns...in the first quarter. That's right. Three catches, three touchdowns. Not a bad coming out party for No. 82.  The second-rounder was given the start opposite Anquan Boldin after Lee Evans was ruled out. 

2) A Thing of Beauty

Everyone in Baltimore knew that Joe Flacco threw a beautiful deep ball, and it finally seems like everyone else has finally got a look at it. His first two TD passes to Torrey Smith were thrown perfectly. As a long time Flacco supporter, it's good to finally see him getting the recognition that he so greatly deserves.

3) Undrafted, Unschmafted

Undrafted rookie free agent LaQuan Williams is officially in the box score with his first career catch, but he was a big help on the field. Williams lined up several times in both two and three wide receiver sets and threw a terrific block on a big third-down play to free up Anquan Boldin. Must be something in the water down at the University of Maryland.

4) Don't Let Up

The Ravens have given up big leads before. The Houston Texans game last year was an unbelievable finish, but it never should have gotten to that point. Twice already today teams have been up by 20+ points and lost. This is not the time nor the place to get cocky.

5) Rest the Starters?

Obviously you don't want to do this right away. But let's face it, the Ravens defense isn't getting any younger. With a prime time matchup next Sunday night against the Jets, the Ravens may benefit from getting a little extra rest for their older players. Obviously this is contingent on the Ravens continuing to beat up the Rams into an oblivion.