Lamar Jackson Leads Exciting Baltimore Ravens Offense

The Electrifying Lamar Jackson Leads the Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens have become one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NFL, thanks in large part to their superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson. Ever since being drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Jackson has taken the league by storm with his electrifying playmaking ability.

Jackson's Rise to Stardom

After seeing limited action as a rookie, Lamar Jackson took over as the Ravens' starting quarterback midway through the 2018 season. His impact was immediate. Jackson led the Ravens on a 6-1 run to close out the regular season and helped guide them to an AFC North title. However, the Ravens were eliminated in the Wild Card round of the playoffs that year by the Los Angeles Chargers.

Jackson showed flashes of brilliance as a dual-threat QB in his first season, but his passing ability was still unproven. He silenced all doubters in 2019 by putting up one of the best seasons ever by a quarterback. Jackson threw for 3,127 yards and 36 touchdowns while also rushing for 1,206 yards and 7 scores. He was named First-team All-Pro and earned NFL MVP honors in just his second professional season at the age of 22.

A New Era in Baltimore

With Jackson as their franchise QB, the Ravens transitioned their offensive identity to match his dynamic skill set. They implemented a run-heavy scheme with Jackson as the focal point with designed quarterback runs and read-option plays. This offensive philosophy, paired with a stout defense, enabled the Ravens to finish the 2019 regular season with an NFL best 14-2 record.

Baltimore continued their success into the playoffs by defeating the Tennessee Titans and Buffalo Bills to advance to the AFC Championship Game. However, their Super Bowl hopes were dashed after losing to the eventual champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Despite the disappointing playoff exit, there was no denying that Jackson had ushered in an exciting new era in Baltimore. The Ravens were now viewed as perennial contenders and Jackson was regarded as one of the brightest young stars in the NFL.

A New Challenge in 2020

The 2020 season presented a new challenge for Lamar Jackson and the Ravens. Teams had an entire offseason to study Baltimore's offense and develop plans to stop Jackson. Additionally, the Ravens were forced to overcome a COVID-19 outbreak within the organization early in the season.

Jackson experienced something he wasn't used to in his first two seasons - struggles. Both Jackson and the Ravens' offense started the 2020 season slowly as opposing defenses contained the QB's running ability. Jackson also had bouts with turnovers and erratic passing.

Despite these issues, Jackson helped lead the Ravens back to the playoffs with an 11-5 record. But the team suffered another early playoff exit, this time losing to the Tennessee Titans in the Wild Card round. Jackson finished the season with solid but unspectacular numbers - 26 TD passes, 9 interceptions, 1,005 rushing yards.

Bouncing Back in 2021

After two straight early playoff exits, Lamar Jackson and the Ravens entered the 2021 season with a chip on their shoulder. Doubts had emerged about whether Baltimore's offense was too one-dimensional and could thrive in the postseason.

Jackson responded to the criticism by putting up a season that firmly entrenched him as one of the NFL's elite QBs. He drastically improved as a passer, setting career bests with 4,136 passing yards and 37 touchdowns. But Jackson still remained as dangerous as ever as a rusher, amassing 767 yards and 2 TDs on the ground.

The Ravens struggled with injuries on both sides of the ball but still managed to go 10-7 and reach the playoffs once again. Jackson led an epic comeback in the Wild Card round against the Tennessee Titans before Baltimore lost a heartbreaker to the Buffalo Bills in the Divisional round.

Despite another early postseason exit, Jackson proved he can lead the Ravens to success through the air or on the ground. His steady development as a passer combined with his generational running ability showed he is still just scratching the surface of his potential.

Jackson Poised for an MVP Encore in 2022?

Now entering his 5th NFL season in 2022, Lamar Jackson looks poised to take his game to the next level at the age of only 25. He will be playing for a new contract this season which should provide extra motivation.

During the offseason, GM Eric DeCosta made it a priority to upgrade Baltimore's passing attack. The Ravens added playmaking tight end Isaiah Likely in the draft and acquired receivers Rashod Bateman and James Proche in free agency.

These new weapons, paired with Lamar's continual growth as a passer, could help him produce an MVP-caliber season. Given his increased proficiency as a passer over the past two seasons, Jackson may be less reliant on his running this year and focused more on picking apart defenses from the pocket.

But the threat of Jackson taking off and ripping off huge chunks of yards on the ground will still be ever-present for opposing defenses. This will open up opportunities in the passing game play-action passes downfield.

With Jackson entering his prime and the Ravens looking to make another Super Bowl run, the stage is set for an MVP-level 2022 season. He has proven he can carry the load and lift Baltimore to contender status. If Jackson can put together a sustained, high-level performance this upcoming season, he could very well be hoisting his second MVP trophy.

Jackson's Unmatched Style

Regardless of any future accolades, one thing is for certain - Lamar Jackson will continue to dazzle fans with his unmatched style of play. His electric speed, ankle-breaking moves, cannon arm, and poise under pressure combine to form an exhilarating viewing experience.

Jackson's ascension has also been instrumental for the greater representation of black quarterbacks in the NFL. Along with stars like Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts, Jackson is proving that African-American QBs can not only succeed but revolutionize the position.

On and off the field, Lamar Jackson serves as an exemplary model of athletic excellence paired with humility and heart. He strives to inspire the next generation of players to work hard and chase their dreams just as he did coming out of the University of Louisville.

The future is exceedingly bright for number 8 in purple and black. Lamar Jackson has already established himself as must-see TV with his game-changing talent. It's safe to say his career is just getting started, and the best is likely yet to come.

FAQs

When was Lamar Jackson drafted?

Lamar Jackson was selected by the Baltimore Ravens 32nd overall in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

What college did Lamar Jackson attend?

Jackson played college football at the University of Louisville from 2015-2017.

What awards has Lamar Jackson won?

Jackson won the NFL MVP award in 2019. He was also named First-team All-Pro that season. Additionally, Jackson won the Heisman Trophy in 2016 while at Louisville.

How many rushing yards did Lamar Jackson have in 2019?

In his MVP season in 2019, Jackson rushed for 1,206 yards and 7 touchdowns on the ground.

Is Lamar Jackson on social media?

Yes, Jackson is active on Twitter (@Lj_era8) and Instagram (@new_era8). He often interacts with fans on these platforms.