The Baltimore Ravens secured a 30-16 victory over the Chicago Bears on Sunday, improving their season record to 2-5. Tyler Huntley made his first start of the year and delivered a sensational performance, leading Baltimore to its first win since Week 2.
Ravens fans had anticipated the return of Lamar Jackson from a hamstring injury late in the week, but head coach John Harbaugh clarified the confusion surrounding Jackson’s status. “Harbaugh said he’s not involved in the injury designations and admitted the team made an honest mistake. He said he’s hopeful that Lamar will play Thursday,” reported Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic.
Though Jackson was listed as questionable and participated fully in practice during the week, his role running the scout team in Friday’s walkthroughs usually signals that a quarterback will not start on Sunday. Despite the team listing him as a full participant—leading many to believe he would play—the Ravens had no plans to start Jackson.
The NFL is currently investigating the injury designations made by the team.
With a short turnaround, the Ravens now prepare to face the Miami Dolphins on Thursday Night Football. Harbaugh remains optimistic about Jackson’s availability for the primetime matchup, according to Zrebiec.
In Jackson’s absence, the Ravens made a quarterback change by benching Cooper Rush in favor of Huntley. In his first start this season, the longtime Baltimore backup threw for 186 passing yards and added 53 rushing yards. Huntley’s passing success helped open up the running game for Derrick Henry, who rushed for 71 yards and scored two touchdowns.
While the Ravens’ record remains below expectations, the team still aims to make an impact in the AFC North race, especially if the Pittsburgh Steelers lose on Sunday night.
The upcoming game against the Dolphins will be pivotal for Baltimore’s playoff hopes. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Lamar Jackson will be under center for this important primetime showdown.
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