Lamar Jackson’s Struggles Continue as Ravens Offense Stumbles in Defeat to Bengals
The Baltimore Ravens have repeatedly asserted their status as Super Bowl contenders, but the reality on the field tells a different story. Despite boasting a roster filled with star power and skilled athletes, the offense has shifted from being explosive to erratic in just a few short weeks.
Lamar Jackson started the season with an impressive performance, throwing 16 touchdowns in his first six games and showcasing his dual-threat ability as both a passer and a playmaker. However, his recent form has been alarming, as he has now gone three consecutive games without a touchdown pass, accompanied by three interceptions. While Kyle Hamilton drew comparisons between Jackson and basketball superstar LeBron James, this recent slump is more than just a minor setback; it has become a significant concern.
Playcalling Woes Amplify Offensive Struggles
One of the most perplexing aspects of the Ravens’ current struggles is the avoidable nature of their offensive difficulties. During the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals, the Ravens held a 7-3 lead and seemed poised to establish control. Instead, the playcalling took a drastic turn away from their strengths. Jackson faced 12 dropbacks in that quarter alone, yet the offense produced negative expected points added (EPA) per attempt. Strikingly, there was not a single rush called for Derrick Henry during this stretch, despite the Bengals ranking 31st in run defense. Henry ended the game with only ten carries, while rookie Keaton Mitchell was given just two opportunities. The sheer volume of dropbacks placed an undue burden on Jackson in a game that did not necessitate such a heavy reliance on his arm.
Missed Opportunities Conceal Larger Issues
It is essential to recognize that the Ravens’ struggles have also been compounded by bad luck and questionable officiating. A long touchdown pass from Jackson to Zay Flowers was nullified by a questionable offensive pass interference call, a decision that could be viewed as a harsh penalty for what is often an overlooked aspect of deep throws. Additionally, a fumble by Isaiah Likely in the end zone represented yet another missed opportunity for Baltimore.
While these moments are significant, they do not obscure the broader issues plaguing the team. The offense lacks cohesion, and Jackson appears uncomfortable in the pocket. The Bengals emerged victorious with a convincing 32-14 win, taking advantage of the Ravens’ self-inflicted wounds and the predictable nature of their offensive play. Todd Monken, known for his innovative approach, seemed to misjudge the game’s rhythm, leading to a game plan that failed to exploit the Bengals’ vulnerabilities.
Ravens Must Reestablish Their Identity
If the Ravens aim to be taken seriously as playoff contenders, the offense needs to regain its identity. Right now, the team feels more like a ship lost at sea, searching for direction rather than building on its strengths. As each week passes, the urgency grows. The Ravens must address their offensive inconsistencies or risk falling further behind in a competitive landscape.
As the team navigates the aftermath of a disappointing primetime loss, several storylines emerge, including injuries to key players and the implications of their upcoming matchups. The road ahead is pivotal for the Ravens as they seek to regroup and regain their footing in the NFL landscape.
