Retour
The Baltimore Ravens’ 35-13 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals was shocking, particularly after they surrendered a commanding first-half lead. The back-to-back losses have proved how much the team needs its star quarterback, Lamar Jackson, who has now missed three consecutive games because of an injury.
Jackson’s continued absence and another second-half collapse left Ravens fans frustrated, with some supporters questioning the quarterback’s availability and the team’s ability to overcome its ongoing problems.
Jackson missed his third consecutive game on Sunday after suffering a high left ankle injury during Baltimore’s Week 4 matchup against the Tennessee Titans. He returned to limited practice ahead of the game, but the Ravens ultimately ruled him out against Cincinnati, forcing backup quarterback Tyler Huntley to take his place once again.
Without the two-time NFL MVP, Baltimore initially appeared to have the game under control after building a 13-0 lead in the first half. However, the momentum shifted after halftime as Joe Burrow and the Bengals offense took charge, scoring 35 unanswered points to complete a stunning comeback win.
The Ravens are now 4-3 overall and 0-2 in the AFC North. Their struggles have become difficult to ignore, while Jackson’s latest absence has sparked criticism among frustrated supporters who are eager to see their franchise quarterback return to the field.
“I don’t think he plays hurt; that’s all I’m going to say. I’ll catch grief for that, but you know, if it’s not 100%, 90% is still good, but that’s his call, their call, so we’ll see,” a fan remarked.
“If I’m the owner, I’m a business guy, so if I’m the owner, like I don’t think the ROI is there anymore, I’m getting rid of him next year, and I’m going all in on Joe Flacco number two,” one fan chimed in.
The frustration among Ravens fans reflects more than just one disappointing afternoon.
“I think he’s doing it on purpose; I just think he doesn’t want to play,” a fan slammed.
“You know, if Lamar Jackson’s not ready to play, then he’s not ready to play. This team has Super Bowl aspirations, so this game is just a small speck on the schedule, so we’ll get it done,” another fan criticized.
Jackson’s health remains a critical factor in Baltimore’s hopes of recovering from its recent struggles. Before sustaining the injury, he had thrown for 967 yards, six touchdowns, and one interception. He currently ranks No. 2 in PFN’s NFL Quarterback Impact Rankings with an 86.7 grade.
Meanwhile, Baltimore’s upcoming schedule offers little room for complacency. The Ravens are set to face the Buffalo Bills on the road in Week 8 before taking on the Jacksonville Jaguars.