Happy New Year for Lamar Jackson: Feels like Ravens season is ‘just getting started’
The Baltimore Ravens have a lot to be happy about as they head into the new year. They are 8-4, in first place in the AFC North, and have a legitimate chance to make a deep playoff run.
Much of the Ravens’ success this season can be attributed to the play of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson has been playing at an MVP level, throwing for 2,560 yards and 19 touchdowns with just six interceptions. He has also rushed for 762 yards and nine touchdowns.
Jackson’s performance has been even more impressive considering the fact that he has been playing behind a patchwork offensive line. The Ravens have lost three starting offensive linemen to season-ending injuries, but Jackson has not let that affect his play.
In fact, Jackson has seemed to thrive under pressure. He has led the Ravens to three straight wins, including a 47-42 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. In that game, Jackson threw for 287 yards and four touchdowns and rushed for 91 yards and a touchdown.
Jackson’s performance has not gone unnoticed by his teammates. After the win over the Browns, wide receiver Marquise Brown said, “Lamar is a special player. He can do things that no other quarterback can do. He’s the reason why we’re in the position we’re in right now.”
The Ravens will need Jackson to continue to play at a high level if they want to make a deep playoff run. They have a tough schedule remaining, including games against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals, and Los Angeles Rams.
But if Jackson can continue to play the way he has been, the Ravens have a chance to be a major threat in the AFC.
Ravens’ defense steps up in big win over Browns
The Ravens’ defense also played a big role in the win over the Browns. They held the Browns to just 42 points, which is the lowest total the Browns have scored all season.
The Ravens’ defense was led by cornerback Marlon Humphrey, who had two interceptions. Humphrey also had a fumble recovery, which he returned for a touchdown.
The Ravens’ defense also got a big play from rookie linebacker Odafe Oweh, who sacked Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield three times.
The Ravens’ defense has been playing well all season, but they have been especially good in recent weeks. They have allowed just 16 points per game in their last three games.
If the Ravens’ defense can continue to play at a high level, they will be a tough team to beat in the playoffs.
Ravens’ playoff hopes hinge on Jackson’s health
The Ravens’ playoff hopes hinge on Jackson’s health. If Jackson can stay healthy, the Ravens have a chance to be a Super Bowl contender. But if Jackson gets injured, the Ravens’ playoff hopes will be in jeopardy.
Jackson has been injured before, so there is some concern about his durability. But Jackson has also shown that he is tough and can play through pain.
The Ravens will need Jackson to be healthy if they want to make a deep playoff run. But if Jackson can stay healthy, the Ravens have a chance to be a special team.
Conclusion
The Ravens are in a good position as they head into the new year. They have a talented quarterback, a strong defense, and a lot of momentum.
If the Ravens can stay healthy, they have a chance to make a deep playoff run. But if the Ravens get injured, their playoff hopes will be in jeopardy.
The Ravens will find out their playoff fate in the coming weeks. But one thing is for sure: they are a team to watch in 2022.