Ravens' Jackson sacked 23 times in 7 games, matching last season's total
Lamar Jackson's struggles with sacks and injuries this season highlight ongoing concerns for the Ravens' offense as they navigate a challenging campaign.
Why it matters: Jackson's performance is critical to the Ravens' success, particularly in a fiercely competitive AFC North.
As the starting quarterback since 2018, Jackson's ability to remain healthy and effective directly impacts the team's playoff aspirations.
By the numbers: This season, Jackson has been sacked 23 times in just 7 starts, equating to a staggering average of over three sacks per game.
- This statistic marks a stark contrast to last year's total, where he was also sacked 23 times but across 17 games, ranking him 26th among quarterbacks for that season.
- Notably, despite missing 3 games due to a hamstring injury, his current sack count ranks 8th most in the league, underscoring persistent issues with protection and play-calling.
Zoom Out: Over his career, Jackson has been hit an alarming 1,305 times, the highest total among all quarterbacks since he took over the starting role.
The Ravens have struggled to provide adequate offensive line support, which has hindered their ability to implement a more dynamic offensive scheme that leverages Jackson's unique skill set.
Yes, but: Despite these challenges, Jackson remains confident in his ability to improve and adapt.
- He stated, "I got to talk to the offensive line about that. I'm going to holler at my guys about that," emphasizing a collaborative approach to addressing the issue.
What’s next: The Ravens face crucial upcoming games where adjustments will be necessary for both Jackson and the offensive line.
With recent performances averaging only 184.5 yards per game and a notably low 47.6 passer rating against the Browns, the need for strategic changes is pressing.
The bottom line: Jackson's health and performance are essential not only for the Ravens' immediate goals but also for his long-term career trajectory.
As he approaches the close of another season filled with highs and lows, the Ravens must find a way to bolster their offensive line and provide Jackson with the protection he needs to thrive.
