The final preseason game will give the Baltimore Ravens' coaches a chance to focus on some key position battles.
Here are three areas to focus on when the Ravens take on the Rams Thursday:
Sergio Kindle vs. Chavis Williams: If the Ravens keep nine linebackers, both are safe. If eight is the magic number, then these two will be competing for the final spot. Williams was called up to the 53-man roster mid-season in 2011 due to his special teams abilities. Kindle was selected in the second round of the 2010 draft, but endured a fractured skull that summer that set him back. Both linebackers will state their case against St. Louis.
Tyson’s time: DT DeAngelo Tyson, selected in the seventh round of the 2012 draft, will have a shot at cementing his status on the 53-man roster against the Rams. Tyson stood out with a sack against Jacksonville last week and will look to expand on that. He should see a lot of playing time against St. Louis, which will further help his chances in making the final roster.
Omar Brown's chance: S Omar Brown has been the biggest surprise this preseason (three fumble recoveries, an interception and an onside kick recovery). Call it luck if you want, but Brown placed himself in position to come up with the big plays. With injuries popping up on Baltimore’s roster at safety, a solid performance against St. Louis could push Brown onto the 53-man squad.
Follow Ravens reporter Jason Butt on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLBAL and @JasonButtCBS.
