Torrey Smith says he will play

Baltimore Ravens star wide receiver Torrey Smith wasn’t able to practice today after missing yesterday’s practice with a knee injury, and he sported a noticeable limp after the team’s narrow 34-33 loss to the San Diego Chargers. Smith did all he could to help the Ravens win with six receptions for 65 yards and two touchdowns, and his early-season struggles are well past him. Steve Smith has cooled off lately, and the younger Smith has re-assumed his role as the clear-cut No. 1 guy in the Ravens high-upside passing attack.

According to the Baltimore Sun’s Aaron Wilson, Smith stated that the only way he will miss this week’s big game against the Miami Dolphins is if he is forced to wear crutches. Nobody has anticipated Smith missing this week’s game, but his inability to practice today has led to some real concerns. He should be able to get back onto the field tomorrow, but his status will be in plenty of doubt if he isn’t able to practice at all this week. Keep a close eye on his practice status tomorrow, because he won’t be at risk of missing this week’s game if he’s able to get some work in.

This week’s Dolphins-Ravens tilt has plenty of playoff implications, as both sides are vying for a Wild Card spot and have even 7-5 records. Whereas the Ravens are coming off of a thoroughly impressive victory over the Chargers, the Dolphins narrow victory over the New York Jets was far from impressive. That said, both of these teams are evenly matched, and we’ll be in for a treat. Smith’s status for the Ravens is critical, since he’s their most talented skill position player and will be locked up against elite CB Brent Grimes. Without him, the elder Smith would be forced to face off against Grimes, and he wouldn’t have much support around him.