Kyle Ericson/Associated Press

Rams QB Marc Bulger rebounded from a pair of poor starts.

What we learned ...

Troy Smith can't go: Coach John Harbaugh wanted to give an extended look at Smith, who is battling Kyle Boller for the team's starting quarterback spot. Smith had to miss the game with a viral illness, allowing rookie Joe Flacco to play the entire game. Flacco struggled in the first half, but settled down in the second half and threw a 15-yard touchdown pass to Derrick Mason.

Marc Bulger shows signs of recovery: Bulger has struggled in the preseason, but had his best performance against the Ravens. Bulger completed 18 of 25 passes for 182 yards and 2 touchdowns, leading St. Louis to 17 first-half points. Almost more importantly, he was not sacked.

Rookie receiver Donnie Avery impressive: Avery made his debut for St. Louis after missing the previous two preseason games while recovering from a cracked pelvic bone. Avery was sharp as he recorded 5 receptions for 65 yards.