OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Lamar Jackson has maintained a strong winning record against teams in the NFC.
However, this week he faces a significant challenge.
On Sunday, the Baltimore Ravens will take on the Philadelphia Eagles, marking a clash between the Ravens’ top-ranked offense and the Eagles’ leading defense.
This game represents one of Jackson’s biggest tests so far this season against the NFC, where he holds an impressive 23-1 record as a starter.
But the Eagles come into this matchup riding a seven-game winning streak and possess a formidable defense.
“This is a really good team we’re playing,” remarked Ravens head coach John Harbaugh.
“I think some people believe they could be the best team in the league, and they’re playing that way.”
While Philadelphia has faced a few weaker opponents during their winning stretch, they have also convincingly defeated competitive teams, such as a dominant 37-17 win over Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals, as well as a decisive 37-20 victory over Matthew Stafford and the Rams last weekend.
Ravens running back Derrick Henry praised the Eagles’ defensive prowess, saying, “They rely on their front, heavily. They’ve got great linebackers who are very smart and play well together.
Good in the back end, as well. Overall, a great defense — the No. 1 defense in the league — and it shows on film.”
Since Week 8, the Eagles have capitalized on turnovers, scoring 46 points off opponents’ mistakes, which is the highest in the NFL.
Earlier this month, they achieved five takeaways in a dominant 34-6 win over the Dallas Cowboys, who managed a mere 146 total yards against them.
However, neutralizing the Ravens presents a unique challenge, especially since Jackson has been adept at protecting the ball this season with only three interceptions.
Philadelphia will be without veteran defensive end Brandon Graham due to a torn triceps and cornerback Darius Slay, who missed practice on Wednesday due to a concussion.
Despite these setbacks, the Eagles can still rely on a strong defensive lineup featuring Jalen Carter, Josh Sweat, Zack Baun, and Nakobe Dean.
“Jalen Carter is amazing. Those guys up front are doing an incredible job getting after the quarterback and causing disruption in the backfield,” Jackson commented.
“I see an explosive defense with great corners and an all-around strong defensive unit, especially with the safeties.”
This weekend’s game has generated considerable excitement, particularly due to the matchup between running backs Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry, both of whom have already crossed the 1,300-yard rushing mark.
Barkley’s contributions have led to speculation that the MVP award this season may go to a player other than a quarterback.
While Jackson, the current MVP, aims to hold on to that title, he is currently leading the NFL in passer rating, passing yards, and touchdown-to-interception ratio.
He has faced tough defenses already this season, scoring 41 points in a victory over Denver and putting up 35 points against Buffalo.
The only time the Ravens struggled offensively was during a game against Pittsburgh, where they turned the ball over three times.
Regardless of the outcome, the clash between Baltimore and Philadelphia will likely make a significant statement about the capabilities of these two top-tier teams.
“Just focus on being who you are and stay true to yourself, approaching it like any other game,” Jackson advised.
“Don’t overthink the opponent; you need to concentrate on what lies ahead of you.”
NOTES: Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith (hamstring) returned to practice for the walkthrough on Wednesday after missing the previous Monday night game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Additionally, nose tackle Michael Pierce, who has been on injured reserve since late last month, also returned to practice.
Coach Harbaugh also confirmed that tight end Charlie Kolar suffered a broken arm.