By Mike Wilkening
Oct. 3, 2008

More from PFW • Week 12 handicapping trends and tips, 11/20/2008 1:24:18 AM • Ravens LB Ray Lewis has been an invaluable resource for many NFL players - and he's not slowing down at age 33, 11/19/2008 8:17:10 AM • Matchups to exploit, 11/19/2008 8:17:03 AM • Week 12 fantasy rankings, 11/18/2008 5:25:29 PM • Week 12 power rankings, 11/18/2008 10:06:01 AM Related Topics • National Football League • Baltimore Ravens • American Football Conference • AFC North Division • Todd Heap • Joe Flacco • Derrick Mason • John Harbaugh

Updated at 10:01 a.m. EDT Monday, Oct. 6

As surprising as it was to see TE Todd Heap catch only seven passes in Baltimore's first four games, it would be an even bigger surprise if he weren’t a bigger part of the offense in the weeks to come. Several factors contributed to Heap’s lack of catches early. He frequently has been utilized as a blocker as the Ravens try to protect QB Joe Flacco. Also, Flacco frequently has targeted WR Derrick Mason — who has 12 more catches than any other Ravens pass catcher — while spreading the ball around otherwise. That said, it’s likely Flacco will look for Heap more in the weeks to come. He has had three seasons of 68 catches or more in his NFL career, remains an important part of the offense, and the Ravens don’t want him to lose sight of that. “Sure, we want him catching more balls, and we’re going to keep working on it to make sure that happens,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said recently.