The Ravens and Falcons open their preseason schedule Thursday night against the Falcons. Here's a look at who you'll see and who you won't:
Who’s playing for the Ravens: Coach John Harbaugh said Baltimore’s starters will play about a quarter, some potentially a quarter and a half. However, you’d have to think big names like Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Haloti Ngata and Ray Rice won’t play too long. LT Bryant McKinnie tweeted that he’s going to see a lot of playing time since he missed a lot of practice when training camp opened.
Who probably won't play for the Ravens: Anyone who missed Tuesday’s practice due to injury is unlikely to play Thursday night. That includes CB Jimmy Smith (back), C Matt Birk (back), RB Bernard Pierce (hamstring), DE Arthur Jones (hip flexor), LB Dannell Ellerbe (hamstring), LB Darryl Blackstock (groin), TE Dennis Pitta (hand), OL Jah Reid (calf), WR David Reed (ACL), LB Josh Bynes (vertebrae) and WR Patrick Williams (undisclosed). OLB Courtney Upshaw (shoulder) returned to practice on Tuesday but is doubtful. WR Jacoby Jones was present at practice Tuesday but didn’t participate much. It’s unknown if he’ll play against Atlanta.
Who’s playing for the Falcons: Much like the Ravens, Atlanta’s starters are slated to play about a quarter, with some going halfway into the second quarter. LB Akeem Dent could get a lot of minutes as he prepares to take a starting role with Atlanta this year. The offensive line is expected to rotate eight or nine guys throughout the night. At quarterback, John Parker Wilson and Dominique Davis could receive the majority of the reps in a tight battle for the No. 3 spot.
Who probably won't play for the Falcons: Atlanta is relatively healthy outside of its secondary. CBs Dunta Robinson (right ankle) and Brent Grimes (foot) are not expected to play Thursday. DT Corey Peters (foot) is also unlikely to play.
Follow Ravens reporter Jason Butt on Twitter: @CBSSportsNFLBAL and @JasonButtCBS.
