“`html
BALTIMORE — Lamar Jackson, already a two-time MVP, is performing exceptionally well this season.
Moreover, his new teammate in the Baltimore backfield, Derrick Henry, has been equally impressive.
The collaboration between Jackson and Henry has transformed an already strong offense into an overwhelmingly powerful unit, helping the Ravens deal with significant defensive challenges. Over the last six weeks, Baltimore has managed to score at least 35 points in four games, and their season average of 446 yards per game currently leads the NFL.
Wide receiver Zay Flowers referred to Jackson as “Lamarvelous” following his flawless passer rating during a decisive 41-10 victory over the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
Leading the league with a passer rating of 120.7, Jackson has thrown 20 touchdown passes against only two interceptions. Meanwhile, Henry has already surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in his first season with the Ravens. With Flowers thriving in his second year, Baltimore boasts a plethora of offensive talent, supported by a newly-constructed offensive line that has been reliable enough.
“It’s a pick-your-poison offense, so depending on what the defense provides, certain players might shine,” Jackson explained. “It all hinges on the defensive strategy. It could be a big day for the tight ends one game, the running backs another. You can never be sure who will take center stage.”
However, the Ravens (6-3) have encountered difficulties on the defensive side. The departures of linebacker Patrick Queen and pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney due to free agency have been impactful, but the team’s secondary has emerged as a significant issue, even with star safety Kyle Hamilton on the roster. Baltimore is currently positioned last in the NFL in pass defense.
The Ravens also experienced a coaching shift this offseason when defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald left to become head coach in Seattle. Additionally, two other defensive assistants accepted coordinator roles elsewhere, which may have played a part in the team’s struggles this season.
While Jackson is likely to be in contention for another MVP award, the team’s overall capability isn’t quite as well-rounded as last season’s squad that achieved the league’s best regular-season record. If improvements are made on defense, this could be the breakthrough year for Jackson as he aims for a Super Bowl appearance.
On a positive note, Baltimore has managed to average at least six yards per play across all nine games this season, tying the 2000 St. Louis Rams for the longest such streak within a season. The Ravens have been particularly effective at converting yards into points, ranking as the top red-zone team in the NFL.
However, there are areas that require attention. Baltimore has been outscored 93-61 in the fourth quarter, losing games against lower-ranked teams such as the Raiders and Browns in the closing moments. This has placed them behind Pittsburgh in the AFC North standings.
In their latest outing, Baltimore notably held Denver scoreless in the second half.
“We’re dealing with some past scars, and we’re focused on not giving up anything at this stage, so our mindset was to hold firm today,” Hamilton stated. “For the most part, we executed that.”
In terms of individual performances, left tackle Ronnie Stanley seems to be enjoying a resurgence in what many viewed as a pivotal year for him, stepping up as the Ravens have had to rely on less experienced offensive linemen.
Conversely, kicker Justin Tucker, considered one of the best in history, has not been at his best lately. He has converted only two of five attempts from 50 yards or more this season. While his 56-yard kick was crucial for a win against the Bengals, a miss from 50 yards ultimately hurt the team in their loss to the Browns.
Injury updates include the recent placement of defensive lineman Michael Pierce (calf) on injured reserve, although the overall health of the team remains relatively stable. Running back Keaton Mitchell is expected to return soon from a knee injury sustained in December.
A significant statistic for the Ravens is their resilience; the maximum deficit they have faced this season is just 10 points, highlighting the team’s capability to rally back, especially with Jackson in good health.
Looking ahead, the Ravens have a short turnaround, preparing for a Thursday night clash against the Bengals. Baltimore previously overcame a 10-point deficit to secure a 41-38 overtime victory over Cincinnati in October. Additionally, both encounters with Pittsburgh still lie ahead, a matchup where the Ravens have struggled recently, losing seven of the last eight games against the Steelers.
“`