NFL Notebook, Week 7: Patrick Mahomes’ injury, trades, awards and more
By Zach Cohen
![DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 17: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs walks off the field before a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on October 17, 2019 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 17: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs walks off the field before a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on October 17, 2019 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/e7698a48f484495b0a0efc6da810fe6a6b82751d99ff8780036778a9d666948a.jpg)
Lamar Jackson: Smooth Criminal
In my first ever NFL Notebook for NFL Spin Zone, I gushed about Jackson’s ability as a runner and a passer. This wasn’t the first time I’ve lauded Jackson in a Ravens uniform; I implored you to draft him in all of your fantasy leagues.
#LamarJackson:
— Zach Cohen (@ZachCohenFB) September 3, 2019
He only started 8 games last year but ran for 695 yards, 640 of which came in those 8 starts. He's basically guaranteed to eclipse 700 rushing yards this year. All 7 QBs to ever do that were top-5 in the position. He's roughly the 15th QB taken in most drafts
Back in April 2018, I predicted Jackson’s selection by Baltimore and why it would be such a good fit.
Felt pretty good about writing this, especially with a solid 8 picks right and this gem. Thanks to those who actually read it... pic.twitter.com/fcqDoayt8s
— Zach Cohen (@ZachCohenFB) April 27, 2018
Fast forward to October 2019, and it’s not looking like a good fit; it’s looking like a great fit. Jackson’s dual-threat ability has elevated the Ravens to a legitimate playoff contender. Look at all that he’s accomplished:
- Since his first start last year in Week 11, his 11 wins in that span are tied for the most with Russell Wilson
- More passing yards than 20 teams
- More rushing yards than six teams
- Tied for 5th-most total touchdowns among all QBs
- And this beautiful tweet:
Lamar Jackson is a real-life glitch.
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) October 21, 2019
RAVENS:
▪️ No. 1 points
▪️ No. 1 rushing offense
▪️ No. 2 total offense
▪️ On pace for most rushing yards ever
LJ:
▫️ No. 6 QBR
▫️ No. 6 rusher in the NFL
▫️ No. 1 yards per carry pic.twitter.com/b3Xyr4PbUI
When I listed my top-five MVP candidates last week, I should have included Jackson at the bottom of the list. He’s simply transformed what was previously a lackluster offense.
With a bye this week, Jackson’s next game will be against the Patriots. It’ll be interesting to see if Jackson can continue his dominant ways against one of the best defenses of all time. Speaking of the Patriots’ defense…