'Game Changing Game Manager!' Ex NFL QB Phil Simms Applauds Ravens' Lamar Jackson's Skill Set
The Baltimore Ravens finished their regular season campaign with a 13-4 record, an AFC North title, the No. 1 seed in the AFC, and a first-round bye in the playoffs.
Led by MVP favorite, quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Ravens carried their regular season momentum to a Divisional Round 34-10 win over NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate C.J. Stroud and the upstart Houston Texans.
And while it's not official, Jackson is expected to be awarded his second NFL MVP award for his 2023 efforts. Jackson is a unique player with a unique set of skills, and former NFL quarterback and current analyst Phil Simms discussed Jackson's skill set with son Matt on their podcast, Simms Complete.
"Why throw into a tight crowd when I just might scramble and buy some more time," said Phil Simms. "I have watched him closely, and he is not a risky thrower."
Jackson has been criticized his entire career for being more of a runner than a pure passer. But his numbers don't support that argument, particularly this season. Jackson threw for 24 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. What's more, he did so while leading the Ravens on the ground, with 821 yards rushing on 148 carries.
Perhaps it's possible to be both a prolific passer while also being a threat to run.
"He is one of the few game-changing players that also is a game manager at the same time. He really does blend the worlds very well," said Matt Simms.
The Ravens will face the Chiefs on Sunday in the AFC Championship game as Jackson hopes to ride his MVP run to his first Super Bowl appearance.
The Ravens' final injury designations for Sunday include corner Marlon Humphrey, wideout Tylan Wallace and safety Rock Ya-Sin all as questionable while linebacker Del'Shawn Phillips is doubtful.
The team anticipates the return of tight end Mark Andrews for his first game action since an ankle injury suffered against the Bengals on Nov. 16 caused him to miss the final seven games of the regular season and the Divisional round matchup with the Houston Texans.
