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Steve Davis: Monday's Ravens Game Balls

Despite the 30-9 score, this was hardly one of those dominant performances that you would expect with that score. In fact, the way the Texans marched the field on the first drive and the way the Ravens offense had two quick three and outs, I thought the Ravens were in for a long day.

However, we learned why they play 60 minutes.

Here are some game balls...

Houston Texans v Baltimore Ravens
(Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Defense goes to Daryl Smith, not that is an eye-popping pick. His pick 6 changed the entire flow of the game. Who knows what would have happened had he not made that play. He continues to be a steady force in the middle of the field, which was such a question mark during the off-season.

Offense goes to Joe Flacco. No, Joe didn't play great, particularly in the first half, when he was inaccurate on several short throws. One of the things that has impressed me about Joe is that he isn't forcing bad balls when things aren't going well. In the past, he might have tried too hard to make a play to make up for things. He has been very patient this year, and I give him credit for that.

Special teams goes to Tandon Doss, again a no-brainer. He has been easy fodder for criticism. I give him credit for coming back and doing a great job in Jacoby Jones' absence. His punt return, like the pick six, was a game changer.

Related: Monday Morning Quarterback: Preston's Report Card

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