Lamar Jackson’s Elite Rushing Equals a Viable Fantasy Streamer

Lamar Jackson flashed the rushing upside to be the QB1 Streamer answer to your Week 12 prayers.

In his first NFL start, Ravens QB Lamar Jackson dazzled… as a runner. He rushed a whopping 27 times against the Bengals — a carry total no QB has reached since 1950– ultimately racking up 117 rushing yards in the process. Jackson was also composed and competent through the air when needed, completing 13-of-19 passes (68.4%) for 150 yards and a broken-play interception. Although John Harbaugh insists Joe Flacco will start once healthy, he conceded a Week 12 return “will be tough.” This sets Jackson up for a juicy date with the pathetic Raiders, where his QB1 upside is very real.

Ravens OC Greg Roman has historically run-heavy roots, and a 54-to-19 run-to-pass ratio told the story here. The Ravens rushed the ball 13 straight times before attempting a pass, and the formula was a clear success. Moreover, the running game came to life with Jackson opening up cutback lanes, as Gus “The Bus” Edwards bulldozed his way to a career afternoon. Even better, RGIII barely touched the field.

Jackson certainly comes with risk, especially with a game of tape now available.  But as a one-week plug-in for a Bye Week Patrick Mahomes or Jared Goff? I’d turn to Jameis Winston or Baker Mayfield first… but Jackson’s ceiling is greater than either. Plus, if he pulls of another W and claims the starting gig for the stretch, Jackson will face the easiest ROS QB schedule. At minimum, he needs to be stashed by the QB-needy.

Author

  • Founder of Roto Street Journal. Lover of workhorse backs, target hog wideouts, and Game of Thrones. Aspiring to be the "Brady" and "Leo" of the fantasy universe.

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