Ravens vs. Chargers Recap: Lamar Jackson and Aggressive Coaching Lead Baltimore to Victory

Lamar Jackson Extends Monday Night Football Dominance

Lamar Jackson now boasts an impressive 22 touchdowns and zero interceptions on Monday Night Football. The Ravens' quarterback was pivotal in keeping the team in the game, contributing with a rushing touchdown and connecting on key passes to Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, including a 40-yard touchdown.

Although this game saw a more balanced offensive approach, Jackson's ability to deliver in critical moments remains a major factor in the Ravens' success. His playmaking ability keeps him at the forefront of MVP discussions and continues to elevate the team's performance on the big stage.

Lamar Jackson Leads NFL in Key Passing Categories After MNF Win

With another classically cool Monday Night Football performance, Lamar Jackson now leads the NFL in several major passing categories:

• 3,053 Passing Yards (1st)

• 27 Passing Touchdowns (T1st)

• 75.9 QBR (1st)

• 3 Interceptions

• 3 Rushing Touchdowns

• 599 Rushing Yards

While Lamar Jackson has played one more game than other quarterbacks due to the Ravens' late bye week, his passing efficiency this season has been the best of his career. Jackson's ability to balance elite rushing stats with passing accuracy has propelled him into MVP discussions yet again, further solidifying his status as one of the league’s most dynamic quarterbacks.

If Lamar is successful in his third MVP campaign, he’ll join the elite ranks of Jim Brown, Brett Favre, Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, and Baltimore Colts Legend - Johnny Unitas.

Ravens’ Rushing Attack Overwhelms Chargers’ Top Defense

The Baltimore Ravens showcased their dominant rushing attack against the Los Angeles Chargers, running for 212 yards and converting key third and fourth downs. With Lamar Jackson at the helm, the Ravens showed their physicality, wearing down the Chargers' #1 overall defense. One of the boldest decisions of the game came when John Harbaugh opted to go for it on fourth and 1, deep in Ravens territory. Harbaugh’s confidence in his team paid off as Mark Andrews converted with a quarterback sneak, leading to a pivotal touchdown drive.

The Ravens ability to run the ball effectively allowed them to outperform the Chargers on 3rd down (8-15 to 5-14) and 4th down (3-3 to 2-2).

Malik Harrison and Chris Board Step Up in Roquan Smith’s Absence

With Roquan Smith sidelined, linebackers Malik Harrison and Chris Board rose to the occasion. Harrison, normally a core special teamer, recorded 13 tackles, helping to hold the Chargers to just 83 rushing yards. The Ravens' pass defense also stepped up, allowing only 202 passing yards, a significant improvement over previous weeks. The addition of Tre White via trade, Ar'Darius Washington to the starting lineup, benching of Marcus Williams, and cutting of Eddie Jackson has given this group the jolt they needed. However, there were some holes in the middle of the field, which Ladd McConkey and Will Dissly exploited.

Justin Tucker Finds His Rhythm After Recent Struggles

After some earlier struggles, Justin Tucker nailed his only field goal attempt of the game, could be a sign of him re-solidifying his status as one of the NFL’s best kickers. Tucker’s adjustment to his kicking technique following last week’s loss to the Steelers was evident, as he delivered when the Ravens needed him most. The Ravens will rely on Tucker’s clutch performances throughout the season.

Tucker’s consistency will be key, as we discussed in our Week 12 Preview.

Penalties Still a Problem for Ravens—And So Are the Referees

Penalties continue to haunt the Ravens, as they lead the league in penalty yards at 865 yards - the Texans are in 2nd with 754. However, it wasn’t just the Ravens making mistakes; questionable calls from the referees also played a role. A “leg whip” penalty negated a 20-yard completion, and the Ravens’ secondary was penalized for minor contact on LA’s pass catchers in the final drive.

Meanwhile this is an effective way to legally tackle Lamar Jackson apparently…

Later this week, don’t miss our Week 13 preview of the Philadelphia Eagles at the Baltimore Ravens. This promises to be an electric matchup between two physical Super Bowl contenders. The Ravens will look to continue their dominant play, while the Eagles aim to prove they’re ready for the postseason. Be sure to check back for all the insights ahead of this exciting showdown!