In a significant shift for the Baltimore Ravens, quarterback Lamar Jackson will miss his third consecutive game due to a hamstring injury. As reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN, Jackson will be sidelined for the Week 8 match against the Chicago Bears. The Ravens are hoping to see him return in Week 9 when they face the Miami Dolphins.
Despite being listed as a full participant in practice on Friday, Jackson remains limited by his injury. This absence is particularly concerning for the Ravens, who are struggling with a disappointing 1-5 record this season, especially after entering the campaign with high expectations as Super Bowl contenders. The team has lost both games without Jackson, scoring only 13 points while conceding 61 in two heavy defeats.
Initially, the Ravens turned to Cooper Rush, a former backup for the Dallas Cowboys, to fill in for Jackson. Unfortunately, his performance fell short, completing 25 of 39 passes for 251 yards, with no touchdowns and four interceptions in his first two games as a Raven. Following these struggles, Rush was replaced by Tyler Huntley during the recent game against the Los Angeles Rams. Huntley finished that match with a more promising performance, completing 10 of 15 passes for 68 yards and adding 39 yards on the ground from three rushing attempts.
Huntley, who has spent the majority of his career with the Ravens, including nine starts between 2021 and 2023, brings a different dynamic to the game. While his overall record as a starter stands at 3-6, he managed a 2-2 record while filling in for Jackson in 2022, helping the Ravens secure a playoff spot. Now, as the Ravens aim to keep their dwindling playoff hopes alive, much will depend on Huntley’s ability to perform against a Bears team that currently holds a 4-2 record.
The Ravens’ schedule offers a glimmer of hope following their encounter with Chicago. After the Bears, they are set to face five consecutive opponents with losing records, including the New York Jets, who remain winless this season. Should Jackson return as expected in Week 9, the Ravens may find themselves in a better position to recover from their early-season struggles.
As the Ravens prepare for their upcoming game, the focus will be on Huntley as he leads the offense against a formidable Bears defense. The outcome of this match could be pivotal for Baltimore’s aspirations this season.
