'The World's Most Difficult Guy To Defend!' Ravens QB Lamar Jackson Key To Title
The status of Lamar Jackson has altered the autumns of Baltimore Ravens fans throughout the DMV area. Now, Bleacher Report hints that his next efforts could also determine the happiness levels in Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh as well.
Baltimore holds a good amount of control in the fate of the AFC North, as Bleacher Report declares that Jackson's adjustments and responses to a new offense led by Todd Monken will be the "top storyline" that "determines" the winner of the division.
"The Baltimore Ravens held steady this offseason, weathered Lamar Jackson's contract squabble, and signed their franchise signal-caller to a new five-year, $260 million extension," B/R writes. "Along the way, the organization, specifically head coach John Harbaugh, realized changes were necessary, with Greg Roman stepping down as offensive coordinator after four seasons ... Todd Monken steps in after directing the back-to-back national championship-winning Georgia Bulldogs offense."
Despite another postseason berth, the Ravens offense was a mixed bag last season, ranking 19th in points scored and 16th in yardage. Monken isn't the only high-profile newcomer taking to the Charm City sidelines, as veteran free agent Odell Beckham Jr. joins first-round pick Zay Flowers.
If Monken and Jackson are able to harness the newfound powers and if the latter stays healthy while returning to his multi-talented self, the path will be paved to the Ravens' first division title since 2019.
"A fully realized Jackson may be the world's most difficult individual to defend," Sobleski's review concludes. "Both the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers are ready to make a run, but Jackson and the Ravens clicking on all cylinders are the most likely to dethrone Joe Burrow and Co."
Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags
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