Ravens’ Jackson expected to play against Bengals despite toe injury; Hamilton returns to practice

Lamar Jackson's resilience will be tested as the Baltimore Ravens prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals on Thanksgiving night, despite his ongoing recovery from a toe injury.

Why it matters: Jackson’s ability to play effectively is crucial for a Ravens team currently riding a five-game winning streak and tied for first in the AFC North.

• The Ravens boast a record of 6-5, reflecting their contention for playoff positioning as they head into a critical stretch of the season.
• With the Bengals looming, a victory could solidify their standing in the division against a rival team.

What’s new: After missing one practice day due to his toe injury, Jackson returned to the field and expressed confidence in his readiness for the upcoming matchup.

• He commented on his condition, stating, "I just got fell on, but I'm good though. The toe's good," which reflects a positive outlook heading into the game.
• Jackson's leadership is evident, as he remains focused on the team's success, saying, "We win. So that's what it's all about."

Yes, but: Jackson’s recent performance has raised questions about his effectiveness under duress.

• Notably, he has not recorded a touchdown in back-to-back games for the first time in his career, and he has gone three straight outings without exceeding 200 passing yards.
• However, he leads the NFL with an impressive 143.4 passer rating in the fourth quarter, showcasing his ability to perform when it counts most.

What to watch: The Ravens offensive strategy may evolve as they contend with Jackson's limitations.

• Head coach John Harbaugh emphasized Jackson's importance, noting, "He's been doing things you take for granted: You protect the football...or you get us down the field."
• Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities remain vital, especially against a Bengals defense that will look to exploit any perceived weaknesses.

Zoom in: Kyle Hamilton's return to practice adds another layer of complexity to the Ravens' defensive schemes.

• Hamilton had a full participation session following his absence on Monday, which can bolster a secondary that will need to contain the explosive Bengals offense.
• Harbaugh acknowledged Hamilton's impact, stating, "Kyle Hamilton looked good. He had a good practice," indicating readiness ahead of this divisional clash.

The bottom line: As the Ravens gear up for a pivotal matchup against the Bengals, Lamar Jackson's health and performance will be key determinants of their success.

• If Jackson can overcome his injury and regain his form, the Ravens may extend their winning streak while solidifying their position atop the AFC North.
• Conversely, if his struggles persist, the Ravens may find themselves facing a challenging road ahead in their pursuit of postseason aspirations.