During a 33-31 loss to the Cleveland Browns in Week 10, two difference-makers disappeared from the Baltimore Ravens' offense. It's safe to say that won't happen again.
"Looking back on it, would we have wanted [RB Keaton Mitchell] out there more? Yeah," Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told reporters Monday. "I think that'll factor into this game plan. ... I'll add Mark [Andrews]. He got two passes in the game. Is that what we want? Absolutely not."
The disappearance of Mitchell following his first-half performance is head-scratching. In the first quarter alone, he had a 32-yard reception and rushed for a 39-yard touchdown to give Baltimore a 14-0 lead.
However, there is a case for his limited action. The undrafted rookie just returned from injury last week.
"It's part of the process of getting a young guy in there," Harbaugh added. "I don't think we felt as an offensive coaching staff that we're gonna throw the whole game plan on him."
But the lack of usage of Andrews, an All-Pro and one of the best tight ends in the NFL, is more confusing. He finished the loss with two catches for 44 yards.
Andrews is the Ravens' best playmaker among pass-catchers. He leads the team in receiving touchdowns (six) and is second in receptions (43) and receiving yards (521). The three-time Pro Bowler must be looked to more, especially in close shootouts like the Week 10 game against the Browns.
It would be shocking if Mitchell and Andrews aren't a key part of the offensive game plan the rest of the season, starting with Week 11 on Thursday against Cincinnati.
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