Torrey Smith erupted in the first quarter of Sunday’s game for the Ravens. Putting up a ridiculous 3 TD’s and 133 Yds on the first three receptions of his career. Obviously… that type of production will not happen again anytime soon. However, Smith still merits a closer look.
Smith was a star WR and kick returner at Maryland. He was only the second WR to ever put up 1000 Yds. in a season at Maryland. He also holds the ACC career kickoff record. He ran a 4.43 forty at the 2011 scouting combine, second among major school WR’s (behind only Julio Jones), so he certainly has the skills to be a top-flight WR.
He played this week due to an injury to Lee Evans. Evans does not appear likely to miss an extended period of time and will likely be back in the WR mix soon. However, he has been a non-factor (2 Rec.’s for only 45 Yds.) so far this season and may need more time to fit into the offense. Baltimore’s #1 WR, Anquan Boldin, still has not fully lived up to his production in Arizona. So there is certainly room for someone, such as Smith, to take on an increased role in the Baltimore Offense.
Going forward, Smith should get more playing time and more targets. With a healthy Evans, his opportunities likely will not be quite whate they were today, but should still see an increase. If you are desperate for help at WR, Smith appears to be a viable candidate with considerable upside. I would not start him until it becomes clear if he can put up solid numbers on a consistent basis, but he is worth stashing on your bench for a few weeks to see how he develops.
