Baltimore Ravens’ Lamar Jackson Defends Focus on Team Wins Over Personal Stats

The Baltimore Ravens secured a decisive victory over the Buffalo Bills on Sunday night, largely thanks to a commanding performance in their running game. Lamar Jackson, the team’s quarterback, was not heavily relied upon for passing, attempting just 18 passes while completing 13 for 156 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the modest statistics, Jackson’s passer rating was 135.4.

Jackson has been vocal about his perspective on the importance of team success over individual statistics. In a statement released on Monday via X, formerly known as Twitter, Jackson responded to fans critical of his performance affecting fantasy football outcomes. “This is a ‘TEAM’ sport,” Jackson stated. “I’m not out here satisfied when I threw for 300 yards but took a loss. If I throw for 50 yards and we WIN, that’s what matters. Y’all stop commenting on our socials about the yards your fan duel or parlays didn’t hit,” he wrote.

Sunday’s game was the second consecutive match in which Jackson did not surpass 200 passing yards. However, over the course of the season, he has compiled 858 yards and five touchdown passes against one interception. His performance emphasizes his continuing role as a dual-threat quarterback, supplementing his passing with formidable rushing capabilities. Through the season so far, Jackson has an average of 77 rushing yards per game, which would mark his second-highest average over a full season.

The Ravens have managed to rebound from their first 0-2 start since 2015, now trailing the Pittsburgh Steelers by just one game in the AFC North. Baltimore’s offensive strategy has favored its ground game, bolstered by the impactful addition of Derrick Henry during offseason free agency. The four-time Pro Bowl running back, Henry, has led the league with 480 rushing yards on 80 carries, including an explosive 87-yard touchdown run against the Bills.

Henry’s contributions have been pivotal to the Ravens, especially in their effort to secure a third consecutive playoff appearance. As the Ravens continue to build momentum, Jackson remains steadfast in prioritizing team victories over personal accolades, as demonstrated in his recent comments and performance.