Lamar Jackson, the highest-paid player in the NFL on a per-year basis, showcased his prowess as he guided the Ravens to a decisive 27-24 victory over their rival Bengals. Meanwhile, on the Bengals’ side, star quarterback Joe Burrow, fresh off a substantial 5-year contract extension worth $275 million, was grappling with an injury, setting the stage for a dramatic narrative that would unfold on the field.
Mind you, this is a rusty Lamar Jackson. #BALvsCIN pic.twitter.com/2YKhhfzyxS
— GOWIE (@DaKidGowie) September 17, 2023
In the previous week against the Texans, the Ravens’ offense struggled to perform. Described as an appetizer needing more cooking by Odell Beckham, Jr., they were far from their potential. However, things took a turn this week.
The offense significantly improved, with quarterback Lamar Jackson exuding confidence and comfort in the pocket. Despite an injury-hit offensive line, he was provided ample time, allowing him to complete passes to seven different targets.
Notably, a 17-yard touchdown pass to Nelson Agholor in the fourth quarter showcased Jackson’s prowess as a passer, silencing any doubts about his abilities.
Agholor was part of the revamped receiving unit that equipped Jackson with the best set of tools he had ever worked with. The Ravens took time to adjust at the beginning of the season after resting starters in the preseason. Although the Bengals improved in the second half, the Ravens had already found their groove in the previous week’s practices.
The focus and effort they put into practice translated into a game like this. Notably, the absence of their starting center, Tyler Linderbaum, and left tackle, Ronnie Stanley, or the ankle injury sidelining Beckham, failed to impede their progress.
Lamar Jackson Shines as Bengals’ Worries Escalate
In a riveting display of skill and determination, Lamar Jackson took center stage as the Bengals grappled with mounting concerns. Jackson’s words encapsulated the essence of their triumph.
“Just experience,” Jackson said. “We hadn’t played for a while together. I feel like today we stepped it up. The offensive line blocked their tail off, guys were getting open. It made my decision making much faster.”
Under the stewardship of new coordinator Todd Monken, the Ravens had found balance. Despite Monken’s emphasis on passing, they showcased a balanced offensive approach, rushing for 178 yards, including Jackson’s 54. This not only granted them additional time of possession but also allowed them to close out the game effectively, a task often entrusted to their defense. The victory carried added significance for the Ravens, having been eliminated from the playoffs by the Bengals last season, particularly when Jackson was sidelined.
Contrastingly, the Bengals faced a worrisome start to the season, starting 0-2 in the division. Burrow, their quarterback, acknowledged tweaking his calf in the final touchdown play. As they geared up to face the Rams the following Monday night, their quarterback’s recovery and their early struggles loomed as major concerns.
The Ravens were already in the position the Bengals aspired to reach, having navigated their growth pains and injuries. Mark Andrews, the Ravens’ tight end, emphasized the need for coordination and staying focused in the face of varying game outcomes. Jackson echoed this sentiment, recognizing that, in the grand scheme, it was just the beginning of a 17-game season.
Nonetheless, the Ravens showcased the potential to be the most well-rounded and balanced version in years. On that Sunday, in the long narrative of the season, they were on point.
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