Lamar Jackson, arguably in the best shape of his career, is doing a great job. The two-time MVP quarterback threw for 281 yards and five touchdowns on Monday night, leading the Baltimore Ravens to a crucial 41-31 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The win helped the Ravens bounce back from an early double-digit deficit, extending their winning streak to five games.
A Joyful Victory Despite Early Obstacles
“I’m focused on winning. That’s all that matters,” said Jackson, after a night in which the Ravens scored seven of nine points before being benched with about two minutes left in the game. Ravens coach John Harbaugh praised Jackson, calling him “a great leader and player” and “one of the greatest competitors” he’s ever seen.
Jackson’s winning streak against NFC teams jumped to 23-1, a record unmatched by any quarterback against the opposite conference in NFL history. His record for the Buckeyes stands at 3-0.
Crows Overcome Injuries of Top Bucks
The game did not have many injuries. Buckeyes wide receiver Mike Evans had to leave the field with a hamstring injury after celebrating his 100th TD. This setback was followed by another blow as leading scorer Chris Godwin was taken off the field in the final quarter with a serious ankle injury.
The Buccaneers coach, Todd Bowles, confirmed the incident, revealing that Godwin’s ankle may have been sprained. Despite these setbacks, Bowles defended the decision to keep Godwin on the field during the final minutes, expressing the team’s determination to win the game.
Stellar performance from the Ravens’squad
Jackson completed 17 of 22 passes without an interception, throwing to Mark Andrews, Rashod Bateman, Justice Hill, and Derrick Henry. Henry, who also rushed for 169 yards on 15 carries, was the standout player.
The Ravens’ defense also stepped up, with quarterback Marlon Humphrey breaking up two key passes in the second quarter, setting up Justin Tucker’s 28-yard field goal and a 17-10 lead.
Jackson’s teammate, Baker Mayfield, finished the night 31 of 45 passing for 370 yards, three TDs, and two interceptions.
Upcoming Games
The Ravens look forward to a clash with AFC North rival Cleveland next Sunday, while the Buckeyes host the Atlanta Falcons in a battle for first place in the NFC South.
The Ravens currently lead the NFL with 1,476 rushing yards this season, rushing for at least 150 in every game. With their performance Monday night, they became one of four teams since 1980 to start a season with at least 1,400 yards in their first seven games.
Despite the points that the Buckeyes finally got, the Ravens were able to hold back and secure the win, marking another commendable chapter in the ongoing season.
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