NFL teams
Jamison Hensley, ESPN Staff Writer 7y

Ravens' Smith to OBJ: If you hit after whistle, there'll be a fight

NFL, New York Giants

OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Jimmy Smith isn't known for scuffles, but the Baltimore Ravens' top cornerback made it clear he won't back down from Odell Beckham Jr. on Sunday.

Beckham has been in the spotlight this season for his outbursts in losses to the Washington Redskins and Minnesota Vikings.

"All of that extra hitting and talking, that's not going to fly," Smith said Wednesday. "That's not my game. I like to line up and play. 'Give me your best shot, and I'll give you mine.' But if you hit me after the whistle, there's going to be a fight."

Smith has been known to shadow some of the best receivers in the NFL in recent years, from Antonio Brown to A.J. Green.

He wouldn't say whether he will follow Beckham all over the field, although he acknowledged that he likes going against the top competition.

"He's a physical player, and I'm a physical player," Smith said. "So, I'm pretty sure we'll have a good matchup."

The Ravens, who are ranked No. 3 in the NFL in defense, understand the importance of slowing down Beckham.

"Odell Beckham Jr. is one of the most gifted players in the league," coach John Harbaugh said. "We've all seen the catches he's made. He obviously has a very fiery, competitive personality, which you respect. It's a big challenge. I think we need to know where [No.] 13 is at all times with our defense."

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