WESTMINSTER (AP) - Several Baltimore Ravens newcomers are eager to make a strong first impression during today's scrimmage against the Washington Redskins, including $40 million running back Willis McGahee or quarterback Troy Smith, the Heisman Trophy winner.
The workout with the Washington Redskins at M&T Bank Stadium marks the debut for several players in their first year with the defending AFC North champions.

"To tell you the truth, when you go somewhere new, you're always going to have jitters," said McGahee, a Pro Bowl runner acquired in a trade with the Buffalo Bills. "I'm going to have the jitters when we scrimmage until you get that first hit. Then, it's like, 'Okay, I'm all right.' "

The Ravens, who cut former NFL Offensive Player of the Year Jamal Lewis before acquiring McGahee, are banking major dividends on their hefty investment.

"Yeah, there's pressure," said McGahee, who slumped to a career-low 990 yards last season. "They know what I can do, but they want to see if I can do it again with them. You always have to prove yourself."

Meanwhile, Troy Smith is aware that his glittery Ohio State pedigree guarantees him nothing in his competition with Drew Olson to be the Ravens' third-string passer. Troy Smith opened camp with a lot of errant throws and interceptions, but has begun to calm down and get acclimated to the faster pace of the NFL.

"I started off a little rocky, as I would expect, trying to think too much early on, but things are starting to come together," Troy Smith said. "The guys have accepted me. It's a totally different trust factor at this level."

Troy Smith is expected to see a lot of action. Starter Steve McNair and backup Kyle Boller will get limited snaps Saturday.

"Hopefully, when I'm called upon and when my number is etched in stone, I'll be ready," Troy Smith said. "Until then, whether I have to be a great cheerleader or not, I'm happy to do anything to help this team win."

Rookie offensive tackle Jared Gaither, a supplemental draft pick from the University of Maryland, is slated to play with the first team on the left side because All-Pro Jonathan Ogden is sidelined with a toe injury. The 21-year-old has five days of practice under his belt and was declared academically ineligible to play football for the Terrapins.

"I'm going to work hard and focus, just pound, pound and pound. Get a 'W,' of course, but really just work hard and get my feet wet," Gaither said.

NOTES: Offensive guard Ben Grubbs (sprained right knee), outside linebacker Antwan Barnes (sprained right ankle) and nose guard Kelly Gregg (right thigh bruise) have been ruled out for the scrimmage along with five players on the physically unable to perform list. That includes: Ogden (toe), tackle Mike Kracalik (ankle), linebacker Dan Cody (knee), linebacker Mike Smith (shoulder) and fullback Justin Green (knee). ... Rhys Lloyd, an NFL Europa kicker still hasn't reported to camp due to visa issues.

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