Playing with a Heavy Heart
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith shined in last night’s game despite the passing of his 19-year old younger brother, Tevin Jones.
Tevin died in a tragic motorcycle accident less then 24 hours before the Baltimore Ravens hosted the New England Patriots in last night’s primetime AFC match up. Torrey had a close relationship with Tevin and all six of his younger siblings. Not only did Torrey play the role as brother, but at many times he had to be the father figure as well. Smith’s dad was absent during his childhood and because of it Torrey was the only father figure his younger siblings had. He even raised them alone for a short period of time due to a six-month jail sentence his mother Monica Jenkins had to serve due to an altercation with a family member.
Torrey was skeptical whether he was going to play in last night’s game but decided to play as a tribute to his younger brother. Not only did Smith play, he was the also the best receiver on the field. He reeled in six passes from quarterback Joe Flacco for 127 yards and two touchdowns. After his first touchdown catch he pointed to the sky and after the second he dropped to a knee and briefly prayed.
The sophomore wide out emerged as the Ravens go to deep threat early on in his rookie season and has all the potential to be a perennial Pro-Bowler. Last year Smith racked up 841 receiving yards on 50 catches and set a Ravens rookie record in touchdown receptions with seven, which also led the team. “Torrey” chants rang many times during the game throughout M&T Bank Stadium. He was arguably the most vital part of the Ravens offense during the match up. The Ravens won 31-30 on a controversial field goal attempt in a closely fought game. It may be hard to tell if the game winning field goal went through the upright’s or not, but it’s not hard to tell that Torrey Smith has the heart to compliment his great potential.
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