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
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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.