Posted by ESPN.com's James Walker
Although it's possible, right tackle Willie Anderson likely won't suit up for the Baltimore Ravens Sunday when they host the Cincinnati Bengals. Anderson signed a three-year deal with Baltimore today, according to ESPN.com's John Clayton.
But rest assured Anderson will make an impact this weekend.
The 13-year veteran knows the ins and outs, check downs, audibles and personnel of the Bengals' high-powered offense. If you don't think rookie head coach John Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Rex Ryan won't pick Anderson's brain this week, you're sadly mistaken.
The Ravens know a lot from film study, which is the way most teams learn opponents. But Anderson will be able to provide a level of understanding that no one in that Ravens' building currently has -- until now.
For many years Anderson was the glue of Cincinnati's offense. He may even know part of the gameplan as teams usually begin preparing for its first opponent in training camp.
In Cincinnati, the Bengals should be shaking their heads right now. Not because they will face Anderson Sunday, but because they will face a team that has all the knowledge on the Bengals that Anderson possesses.
With Baltimore's young offensive line, eventually Anderson should crack the starting lineup. With his experience and playing ability when healthy, he is an upgrade over both young tackles Adam Terry and Jared Gaither.
But Anderson's revenge towards the Bengals likely won't take place on the field until their second meeting Nov. 30. Right now, and over the next 72 hours, it's all about Anderson giving his new team a mental edge in this AFC North rivalry game to start the regular season.
Walker joined ESPN.com in 2008 after three seasons covering the Cleveland Browns for the Columbus Dispatch. He also covered the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Cavaliers at the Dispatch. Walker grew up in Hyattsville, Md., before attending Temple University, graduating in 2001 with a B.A. in communications and mass media. He resides in the Cleveland area.
