Lamar Jackson: Key is consistency to get out of the slump in Ravens

Lamar Jackson Seeks Consistency to Overcome Career Slumps

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has emphasized the need for consistency to overcome the slump in his performance, considered the worst of his career so far. After the 32-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, Jackson reiterated the word “consistent” on multiple occasions during his meeting with the media, addressing issues such as turnovers, lack of precision, and the impact of injuries. During the Ravens’ five-game losing streak, Jackson has experienced a complicated period, with two fumbles and an interception, totaling three turnovers, the highest figure in the last four seasons.

“I just have to play consistently,” Jackson stated.

Lamar Jackson

Despite the discomfort in his knee, ankle, and toe, which have prevented him from participating in at least one weekly practice for the last three weeks, Jackson dismissed the idea that the injuries are affecting his performance. He acknowledged that he needs to improve his throwing accuracy, something he usually doesn’t miss in training. Jackson denied that this is the worst moment of his career, although the results have not been favorable. This was the third consecutive game without a touchdown pass for Jackson, the longest drought in his eight years in the NFL. In addition, he has recorded four consecutive games with a completion percentage below 60% for the first time.

“I feel like I’m seeing the field pretty well for the most part,” Jackson said, who completed 17 of 32 passes (53.1%) for 246 yards. “But I just have to be consistent. We all have to be consistent.”

Lamar Jackson

Faced with the question of how to achieve that consistency, Jackson responded with determination: “Just be me. Just be Lamar. That’s all.” In Jackson’s first four starts, the Ravens averaged 32.7 points. After a hamstring injury that kept him out for three games, Baltimore has averaged 23 points in their five games since his return. In the recent game against the Bengals, they only managed 14 points. The Ravens’ tight end, Mark Andrews, expressed his support for Jackson, highlighting his confidence in him and the cyclical nature of American football. Safety Kyle Hamilton also backed Jackson, emphasizing his competitive spirit and his status as a two-time MVP. The loss to the Bengals, Jackson’s first since 2021, affected the Ravens’ aspirations to retain the AFC North title. The chances of winning the division decreased, according to the analyses. The Ravens (6-6) are half a game behind the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5), who will face the Buffalo Bills (7-4) on Sunday. Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers emphasized support for the quarterback, highlighting that as long as Jackson fights, the team will do so with him.