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Mike Duffy

Gaither/Oher Pass Test

Posted by Mike Duffy on Sunday, November 22nd, 2009 at 8:05 pm | Categories: Mike Duffy, Week 11: Colts Game Notes

Ravens offensive tackles Michael Oher and Jared Gaither faced what could be considered the NFL’s best pass-rushing test when the Indianapolis Colts brought Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis to M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday.

Even though the Ravens are disappointed in their 17-15 loss, the performance of the tackles cannot be overlooked.

Neither Freeney nor Mathis managed to record a sack, of which the duo has 18 combines, or a single tackle.

They were largely rendered inefficient against a collection of protection packages.

“Coach Cam [Cameron, offensive coordinator] drew up a good game plan to take care of those guys,” said Oher.  “We all helped, the running backs, the tight ends, the offensive line.  Everybody had a hand in it.” 

Quarterback Joe Flacco was essentially clean all game, as the Colts did not have any quarterback hits.  The only time Flacco did get touched was when he scrambled outside of the pocket.

Gaither had seen Freeney before.  Last year, he started at left tackle when the Ravens traveled to Indianapolis in Week 5.  That day, Freeney was also shut out, even though Mathis did manage three sacks going against tackle Willie Anderson.

“Freeney really has three things he does,” Gaither explained.  “He can go upfield and get past you, he has that tremendous spin move, and if you fall asleep on him, he’ll bull rush you.  That’s three different ways he can kill you.  You’re off-balance with him, and if you don’t stay on your toes, he will get to the quarterback.”

Oher believes there is still much work to be done to improve the unit, however.

“I think me and Jared had a good game, but there’s always things you can get better on,” said Oher.  “We’ll look at the tape and fix it.”

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