By Jay Paris

SAN DIEGO ---- Shawne Merriman is an odd mix. The Chargers' Pro Bowl linebacker is unfailingly nice, easy to approach and a media favorite as any time is a good time to tug on his massive arm.

But come Sundays, Merriman does a 180, becoming an agitated, aggressive defender, showing no mercy on those toting the ball.

This Sunday, he'll perform not only for the Chargers, but for a certain Raven as well: linebacker Ray Lewis.

Merriman counts Lewis, the two-time defensive player of the year, among his pals. Come Sunday in Baltimore, he's bent on knocking out Lewis' teammates and knocking the smirk off Lewis' mug.