Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh finds himself facing a tough decision regarding star quarterback Lamar Jackson. With the Ravens already securing the AFC North title and the AFC’s No. 1 seed, their upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers holds no significant ramifications. Consequently, Harbaugh has refrained from making a definitive announcement on whether or not Jackson will start on Saturday.
In his statement, Harbaugh emphasizes the need to address Jackson’s injury concerns before reaching a conclusion. The coach estimates that it will take approximately 24 to 48 hours to assess the situation thoroughly. Once the medical staff evaluates Jackson’s condition, the Ravens will promptly disclose their decision. The team is committed to transparency and will share their plans after Wednesday’s practice session.
A Precarious Position
If Jackson sits out, he will face an unusually long 19-day break between games. Nevertheless, this scenario is not entirely uncharted territory for the Ravens. In 2019, when Baltimore held the AFC’s top seed, Harbaugh opted to rest Jackson and six other starters during the final game of the regular season. Unfortunately, the extended layoff affected the team adversely, resulting in a surprising 28-12 loss to the Tennessee Titans in the divisional round.
Reflecting on that experience, Harbaugh acknowledges the challenges of handling such delicate decisions. While the current circumstances differ significantly, he emphasizes the importance of taking lessons from the past. The Ravens coach is cautious not to attribute the team’s subpar performance solely to their extended rest in 2019. However, he acknowledges that their failure to deliver their best football that day left a lasting imprint.
Since that disappointing loss in 2019, only nine players remain on the Ravens’ current 53-man roster who went through that ordeal. These individuals who weathered that defeat understand the value of the learning experience it provided. Offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley reflects on how that memory has propelled them forward, overcoming various obstacles to reach their current position. The scars left by that defeat serve as a constant reminder of the team’s mission.
Throughout this season, Lamar Jackson has emerged as the frontrunner for the coveted NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. With his exceptional performances, Jackson has led the Ravens to an impressive six-game winning streak and the best record in the NFL at 13-3. His impact on the team’s success cannot be overstated, making him a critical asset in their pursuit of a Super Bowl title.
The Backup Plan
In the event that Jackson is unable to start, the Ravens will likely turn to backup quarterback Tyler Huntley. While Huntley may not possess the same level of experience and talent as Jackson, the team has faith in his abilities. Throughout the season, Huntley has trained alongside the star quarterback, preparing for moments like these. Although the circumstances may not be ideal, the Ravens remain confident in their backup plan.
The decision regarding whether Lamar Jackson will start for the Baltimore Ravens against the Pittsburgh Steelers remains uncertain. Coach Harbaugh and the medical staff have yet to make a final determination, taking into account Jackson’s injury status. While the team hopes to learn from their past mistakes, they also recognize that each situation is unique. Regardless of the outcome, the Ravens are committed to giving their all and overcoming any challenges that lie ahead.
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