Cassel Questionable For Game Against Ravens

NFL News - September 10th, 2009 - Written by Scott

Kansas City Chiefs fans are still left with doubt as to whether their starting quarterback Matt Cassel will play in their season opening game against the Baltimore Ravens. Cassel injured his left knee in their preseason game against Seattle on August 29 when he was pulled down from behind by Barndon Mebane. He practiced Wednesday for the second time this week and was wearing a brace on his left knee. He did not participate in a full practice and Chief's coach Todd Haley has listed him as questionable against the Ravens.

"He was out there, which was good. That's better than not being out there," Haley said. "He was able to get through some (drills), so that's going to be a situation we'll monitor as the week goes on. I don't know that we're going to have an answer right up until we play."

Cassel has not looked up to form this preseason in comparison to last year when he took over for injured Tom Brady and led the Patriots to eleven wins. The game with Seattle was supposed to be one where they could get Cassel extensive playing time. Instead, he was injured on the third play of the game. If Cassel is not able to go, this would probably lead to backup Brode Croyle getting the starting nod. He has been hit by injuries also and has not lived up to the franchise quarterback role. In addition, he has not even led the offense to a touchdown this preseason. This could be a difficult task for Croyle if he does get the start against one of the league's best defenses.

The Chief's signed Cassel to a deal that guarantees him $28 million over six seasons during the offseason. They need him to be ready for their game against the Ravens and are being careful this week by limiting him in practice. In his preseason so far with the Chiefs, Cassel has seen very little action. He has completed 11 of 19 passes for 114 yards and one touchdown. Their offense has been far from spectacular in the preseason and not having Cassel would put the Chiefs in a bad situation against a great Raven's defense. One positive thing for the Chiefs is that he was in full pads on practice Wednesday and did not seem bothered during passing drills by his left sprained knee.

The Chief's already are coming into the game as 13 point underdogs with an over/under set at 36 according to sportsbook Beted. Not having Cassel could play a huge role in these odds.

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