The toll of the regular season is taxing on the body. Players are expected to finish a seventeen-game schedule – not including an extended season. Expectations are high, but being present is a part of the game. When key players are absent, the chances of winning decrease – creating a tough weekend for the coaching staff and supporting fans. John Harbaugh and the Ravens know this feeling to be true. An injury to their dual-threat quarterback could jeopardize playoff chances.
It was a tough afternoon for Baltimore fans on Sunday. Lamar Jackson suffered a PCL strain after taking a hit from Jonathon Cooper Sunday against the Broncos. No. 8’s latest injury could sideline Baltimore’s quarterback for the next three weeks. When reporters asked John Harbaugh about No.8’s status for their upcoming game against Pittsburgh, his response was bittersweet.
It is “less likely” that Jackson will suit up on Sunday, which means Tyler Huntley will start in an important divisional game. Baltimore is first in the AFC North but could lose placement if their backup quarterback performs poorly.
Ravens’ QB Lamar Jackson suffered a sprained PCL during Sunday’s win over the Denver Broncos, per league sources. PCL injuries often sideline players 1-to-3 weeks and Ravens’ HC John Harbaugh already has said Jackson is “less likely” to play Sunday vs. the Steelers. pic.twitter.com/4ra4KDuUdQ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 6, 2022
Lamar Jackson’s Injury Jeopardizes Ravens playoff chances
Depending on Lamar to make big plays is the secret formula for Greg Roman’s offense. Their performances this season have been subpar, but enough to win eight games. This season, Baltimore ranks 12th in points per game (23.8) and 18th in total yards (4,202) – leaving room for improvement. Jackson accounts for more than half of Baltimore’s total offensive yards (3,006) – causing concern for those who wonder what will happen in his absence.
Lamar Jackson is responsible for more than half of the #Ravens total yards.
— Loyal Ricks Jr. (@LoyalJRicksJr) December 6, 2022
Lamar - 3,006 Yards
Ravens Offense - 4,202 (Ranked 18th)
Will Tyler Huntley be enough to keep things rolling? #NFL
Without No.8 under center, it will be hard for Baltimore to hold their position in the AFC North. Baltimore is the first seed in the division, but upcoming match-ups will force the Ravens to play their best football. The Steelers, Bengals, Browns, and Falcons are working towards keeping their post-season hopes alive and plan to take advantage of the wounded birds. Three of Baltimore’s four divisional games are on the road – giving an advantage to opponents trailing in the standings.
Lamar Jackson’s absence will cause Ravens front office to evaluate his worth
The pressure will be on Tyler Huntley to help his team secure a playoff birth. His performance against the Broncos was shaky but enough to get the job done. No.2 finished with 197 yards passing and an 84.4 completion percentage.
Clinching a playoff berth depends on how well the Ravens adjust to making plays without Jackson on the field. While No. 8 nurses his PCL Strain, the Baltimore front office will evaluate the state of the franchise.
If Huntley performs flawlessly, Baltimore will reconsider signing Jackson to a new deal in the off-season. Poor performances could prove Jackson’s worth and will lead to a new contract in the off-season.