Offensive Explosion Blows Baltimore Ravens Past Detroit Lions
Following last week's win over the Tennessee Titans, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson said his team "needs to find a way to execute and get into the end zone."
Well, did Sunday salve those wounds?
The Ravens rode an offensive wave of 503 total yards and 38 points en route to a 38-6 shellacking of the Detroit Lions on Sunday, and Jackson was a big part of that success. He accounted for 357 yards through the air and three scores, putting up monster numbers against what had been one of the best defenses in the NFL entering this week.
Oct 22, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) rushes during the first half against the Detroit Lions at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
© Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Baltimore did not have a sole runner who broke the century mark on the ground, but the trio of Jackson, Gus Edwards and Justice Hill combined for 146 yards rushing, good enough to provide a change of pace as the quarterback did his thing in the passing game.
The biggest takeaway, however? The Ravens found the end zone and did not have to settle for field goals.
Leading up to last week's game in London, Jackson remarked that his team had seen some explosive plays at times, but it had been unable to consistently find pay dirt. On Sunday, that changed, and it's even more noteworthy that it came against the red-hot Lions. Sure, these two teams won't compete against one another for an AFC crown, but the Lions have been one of the best teams in the league in recent weeks. Putting up these kinds of numbers against them should not go unnoticed.
The Ravens continue their tour of the NFC over the next two weeks, traveling to face the Arizona Cardinals next before hosting the Seattle Seahawks. Can Sunday's "flash in the pan" become a trend for Jackson and this offense?
They have the weapons, for sure. Maybe Sunday will serve as a step in that direction.
