National Football League

Ravens' Rice runs, catches and provides leadership

Published Jan. 12, 2011 2:38 p.m. ET

foxsports

When it comes to providing big plays and leadership, the Baltimore Ravens depend upon two guys named Ray: Ray Lewis and Ray Rice.

Lewis does his part for the defense, and Rice provides those qualities for the offense.

Rice led the Ravens with 1,220 yards rushing and ranked second with 63 receptions, one fewer than Anquan Boldin. Now in his third season, Rice could be a key figure in Baltimore's bid to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday in the second round of the NFL playoffs.

Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin calls Rice ''a great football player.''

Rice does more than just run and catch. He's also an effective blocker in the pocket, and lately has taken on a leadership role in the huddle.

Ray Lewis says of Rice: ''He can take over a game.''