Will Lamar Jackson Save Ravens?

The Baltimore Ravens are facing a challenging 1-5 start to the NFL season, a situation that requires significant fortune and momentum shifts to secure a playoff spot, which was unexpected given their status as Super Bowl contenders just two months ago. Injuries have plagued the team on both offense and defense, exacerbating defensive struggles and putting additional pressure on a stagnated offense, leading to losses against playoff-caliber opponents.

In their recent 17-3 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the Ravens showed some defensive improvement, offering a glimmer of hope to fans, but turnovers and an inability to score touchdowns highlighted ongoing offensive issues. The absence of quarterback Lamar Jackson, who suffered a hamstring injury and missed multiple games, has been a major factor, with the team relying on backups like Cooper Rush and Tyler Huntley, who failed to provide effective scoring drives.

Jackson's injury has led to a sharp decline in the Ravens' offensive performance, with statistics showing a drop from 32.8 points per game and 338.0 yards per game with him to 6.5 points and 251.8 yards without him. Prior to his injury, Jackson led the league in touchdowns and passer rating, underscoring his critical role in diverting defensive attention and supporting players like Derrick Henry, whose utilization has suffered in Jackson's absence.

Beyond Jackson's return, the team faces broader issues, including defensive underperformance with missed tackles and poor pressure on opposing quarterbacks, as well as play-calling problems that have persisted. Head coach John Harbaugh has emphasized the need for changes, but mismanagement and ongoing struggles threaten the Ravens' chances of joining the rare 1-5 teams to make the playoffs.

The Ravens are hopeful for Jackson's return in Week 8 against the Chicago Bears, with an upcoming bye week providing time for recuperation. His reinsertion into the lineup is seen as crucial for improving the team's outlook for the remainder of the season, though broader adjustments are necessary to address defensive and strategic shortcomings.