By Austin Medina
It was less than a year ago when the Ravens were embarrassed in a home playoff game.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson had thrown for a measly 25 yards through three quarters. The Ravens offense couldn't counteract the fast-winding Chargers defenders. At this point, the Ravens were counted out.
After winning the AFC North crown with a 21-year old quarterback, the Ravens were critiqued at every turn.
And while many critics followed and ridiculed, Baltimore took the offseason to get better. The light was there at the end of the tunnel though very few wanted to see it. The Ravens kept their eyes open.
Jackson produced the highest passer rating of any 21-year old quarterback and was just one of eleven 21-year old's to attempt atleast 150 passes.
Jackson and the Ravens were young last season- and still won the AFC North crown.
Fast forward a season later. The Ravens are back-to-back division champions. Lamar Jackson is the league MVP favorite. The Ravens offense seemingly cannot be stopped.
Ravens have now rushed for 2,830 yards this season, the most through 14 games since 1978 Patriots.Baltimore is on pace for 3,234 rushing yards, which would break NFL single-season record.Only 2 teams have rushed for 3,000 yards: 1978 Patriots (3,165) and 1973 Bills (3,088).
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) December 13, 2019The Ravens rank first in the NFL in scoring offense (33.7 ppg) as well as rushing yards per game (202.1).
There were many theories concluded after just eight starts from Jackson. From he can't throw to the Ravens offense can't move the chains to his style isn't sustainable.
All of these theories have been debunked this season. Jackson has improved his completion percentage, thrown for 33 touchdowns, and produced an 80.2 QBR.
Lamar Jackson is 6th QB of Super Bowl era with at least three games of 5 or more TD passes.Only QB with more in a single season is Peyton Manning, who had 4 such games in 2004.Jackson has two games remaining in the regular season.
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) December 13, 2019Jackson is a quarterback who can make electric plays with his feet.
The Ravens rushing attack is more dynamic than most people realize.
Baltimore is winners of ten straight games and can clinch the #1 seed with a win over Cleveland in two weeks. The Ravens have been, by far, the best team in the AFC.
Oh, what a difference a year makes!
