Ravens RB Anthony Allen and OL Gino Gradkowski have passed their baseline tests after suffering concussions at Denver last week.

Both players are now cleared to play in the AFC Championship game. Allen is a third-string running back and special teamer. Gradkowski is the heir to Matt Birk's center job.

Ravens RB Anthony Allen has allowed a sack in each of Baltimore's first two preseason games.

Allen's struggles in pass protection won't endear himself to the coaching staff. Allen lost two yards on his lone carry in Friday's game, and muffed one of his three pass targets. He's rushed for seven yards on six carries through Baltimore's first two preseason games, adding one catch for 12 yards. Barring injury to Bernard Pierce, Allen will open the year third on the depth chart.

The Baltimore Sun believes it's "fair to say" Anthony Allen will open Ravens camp as the team's No. 2 tailback.

Allen worked with the first-team offense all spring while Ray Rice stayed away, and knows Cam Cameron's system better than rookie Bernard Pierce. Pierce, a third-round pick, remains the favorite for No. 2 back duties and will receive an "extensive" look this preseason. We prefer Pierce for Rice handcuffers.