Ravens to Win Division? It's About Lamar Jackson - and Closing Tight Games
The Baltimore Ravens, by their own standards, had a so-so season last year.
They finished with a 10-7 record as backup QB Tyler Huntley went 2-2 filling in for the injured Lamar Jackson before being knocked out of the playoffs by the Cincinnati Bengals.
A building-block season? Yes. But there could have been a real chance to win the division as well? Yes, that's right, too.
Lamar was 8-4 as the starter until he succumbed to injury, and for many, that's where the Ravens' season likely ended, despite making the postseason.
However ...
Looking through the schedule from last season, the Ravens were in many tight games. They had 12 one-score games and went 6-6. Had just one or two results gone the other way, then Baltimore could have realistically had a shot at the division title.
But what does this mean heading into next season?
Putting it simply, the fine margins can be rectified, and if they are, even if the organization moves forward without Lamar, it could be in a decent position. Not as good if the former Louisville star puts pen to paper, but serviceable, nonetheless.
With a top-notch defense that ranked third in points allowed per game (18.5), the Ravens will be in most games. Their biggest loss last year was 11 points to the Bengals in Week 18.
They weren't blown out in any game. That'll work.
So that points to a team that is there or thereabouts when it comes to teams in the playoff/Super Bowl bubble. Can a team learn to put the close games in the win column? There's no reason to suggest that Baltimore can't do that ... particularly with new offensive coordinator in Todd Monken helping to steer the ship.
If the Jackson situation can get sorted out, then Baltimore fans have every reason to be optimistic about their team's chances in 2023 year. ... especially if they win the close ones.
Follow Adam Schultz on Twitter
Follow the Baltimore Ravens Daily Blitz Podcast
Follow Raven Country on Twitter and Facebook
Ravens Alert! Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Baltimore Ravens?
