Ravens' Odds Hinge on Lamar Jackson's Week 8 Status

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Game Time Decisions

Ravens Cannot Be Trusted Until Lamar Jackson Returns

The Ravens are not going to win many games with Huntley starting. Lamar Jackson needs to return, and the constant uncertainty surrounding his status cannot continue. Each week brings conflicting signals about whether he practiced, whether he will play and whether he has been ruled out.

That uncertainty is especially important with the Ravens facing Buffalo in a significant game. The betting line moved from Buffalo as a three-point favorite to 3.5 in some places. If Jackson plays, the line could remain around three points. If he does not, it could quickly move to five or 5.5.

Until Jackson returns, the Ravens cannot be trusted. Opposing defenses can allow Zay Flowers to make plays while focusing on stopping Derrick Henry. Flowers remains Baltimore’s primary downfield threat, while Henry does not provide the same receiving threat out of the backfield.

Against Cincinnati, the Ravens had one explosive play: a touchdown to Flowers. Cincinnati took control from that point and blew them out.

Baltimore also cannot afford to keep losing games while Jackson is unavailable. Joe Burrow showed what Cincinnati can do, while the Browns and Steelers each have five wins. The Ravens need clarity about their franchise quarterback, and the betting market is also waiting for a definitive answer.