Ravens' Jackson named AFC Offensive Player of the Week after four-touchdown game
Lamar Jackson continues to establish his dominance as a dual-threat quarterback, earning AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors following an impressive performance against the Miami Dolphins.
Why it matters: Jackson's ability to efficiently distribute the ball while maintaining his rushing prowess is critical for the Ravens as they prepare to face tougher opponents like the Minnesota Vikings. His versatility keeps defenses guessing and opens up opportunities for other offensive players.
What’s new: In the Ravens' recent victory over the Dolphins, Jackson threw for 238 yards and four touchdowns.
- This performance marks a significant rebound, demonstrating his capability to excel in the passing game even with limited rushing production.
- Jackson also had five rushing attempts for a total of 14 yards, which reflects a strategic decision to prioritize passing in certain situations.
By the numbers: Despite the modest rushing output, Jackson remains a record-setting player.
- He has amassed 6,353 career rushing yards, making him the NFL's all-time leading rusher among quarterbacks—a number nearly 2,000 yards higher than any active QB.
- Currently, he averages 36 rushing yards per game, the lowest of his career, indicating a shift in how the Ravens utilize him within their offensive scheme.
Yes, but: Jackson's recent game highlights a trend that could raise questions about his running style moving forward.
- It was only the seventh time in his eight-year career that he was held to less than 15 rushing yards, suggesting a potential evolution in his role as defenses adapt to his threat.
- His comments about being ready to run "if I have to" imply a willingness to adjust based on game circumstances rather than relying solely on his legs.
What to watch: As the Ravens gear up to face the Vikings, how Jackson balances his passing and rushing will be crucial.
- Tight end Mark Andrews emphasized the difficulty of defending against a quarterback like Jackson, acknowledging his dual-threat capabilities: “It’s tough to blitz a guy like that because of how good he is with, obviously, his arm, but his feet, too.”
- Expect the Vikings to devise a defensive strategy that accounts for both aspects of Jackson's game.
The bottom line: Jackson's recent accolades and performances underscore his continued importance to the Ravens' success.
- With his unique skills and unprecedented records, the Ravens are not just banking on Jackson’s past achievements; they are focusing on how best to leverage his talents against upcoming challenges.
As the Ravens prepare for their next matchup, Jackson's ability to adapt and execute will be pivotal in maintaining their competitive edge in the league.
