In a season already filled with jaw-dropping performances, Lamar Jackson managed to raise the bar even higher in Week 9. The Baltimore Ravens quarterback carved up the Denver Broncos defense, recording a perfect 158.3 passer rating in a 41-10 rout. It marked the fourth time in Jackson’s young career that he’s achieved the elusive “perfect game,” tying him with legends Peyton Manning and Ben Roethlisberger for the most in NFL history.
Practice? We’re Talking About Practice?
What makes Jackson’s feat even more impressive is that he did it on just one day of practice. Resting back and knee injuries, the former MVP only participated in Friday’s session. But as running back Derrick Henry noted, that’s all Jackson needs:
“I feel like it doesn’t matter if it’s one day or half a day, he’s going to be ready.”
– Derrick Henry on Lamar Jackson’s preparation
Jackson’s dedication to studying film and working with quarterbacks coach Tee Martin allowed him to dissect the Broncos’ third-ranked defense. He completed 16 of 19 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns, with each scoring strike going to breakout receiver Zay Flowers.
Point Guard on the Gridiron
Wide receiver Nelson Agholor compared Jackson’s vision and playmaking to that of an elite point guard, saying:
“It’s like your ideal point guard in a basketball situation — somebody that sees people, sees their strengths, sees ways to get them won. He’s a special player…”
– Nelson Agholor on Lamar Jackson’s field vision
That court vision was on full display as Jackson spread the wealth, connecting with seven different receivers. Flowers became the first Raven with 100+ receiving yards and 2+ touchdown catches in a game since Marquise Brown in 2019.
Ground and Pound
Though not at full strength as a runner, Jackson got plenty of help from his backfield mate Derrick Henry. The bruising back topped 100 yards and scored twice, becoming just the 10th player in NFL history to notch 100 career rushing touchdowns.
Henry’s presence kept the Broncos honest, opening up passing lanes for Jackson to exploit. The duo’s complementary styles have made the Ravens offense a multi-dimensional nightmare for opposing defenses.
Midseason MVP?
After his latest masterpiece, Jackson has reclaimed the pole position in the NFL MVP race. His odds sit at +225 according to ESPN BET, edging out preseason favorite Josh Allen (+360).
With a loaded supporting cast and Jackson playing at the absolute peak of his powers, the 6-3 Ravens are poised to make a deep playoff run. They’ll look to keep the momentum going against a tough slate featuring the Panthers, Jaguars, and rival Steelers over the next three weeks.
If Jackson maintains this otherworldly level of play, the Ravens could be a legitimate Super Bowl threat come January. Flowers put it best when summing up his quarterback’s outing: “Lamarvelous.”
