If Willis McGahee’s preseason was a coming attractions reel, the movie would be perceived to be a bust.

The Baltimore Ravens’ new running back averaged a meager 2.6 yards per carry and failed to scored a touchdown. Take away his one shining moment, a 16-yard pickup in the opener against Philadelphia, and McGahee gained 31 yards on 17 attempts.

The NFL, however, isn’t Hollywood. Which means the Ravens had absolutely no intention of showing what McGahee can really do until the curtain comes up to start the show. The host Cincinnati Bengals can look at all the film they want, but they won’t know what it’s like to face the Ravens with McGahee in the backfield until tonight.

“I’m ready to work now. This is when it counts,” McGahee said. “The preseason, you’ve got to get through it without getting hurt. That’s over with now.”

Tonight’s game opens a new era for the Baltimore offense, which for years has relied on power back Jamal Lewis. After the Ravens allowed Lewis to sign as a free agent with Cleveland, general manager Ozzie Newsome quickly worked a trade with Buffalo to land the versatile McGahee.