The Baltimore Ravens faced uncertainty as they returned from their bye week, with star quarterback Lamar Jackson still sidelined due to a right hamstring injury. Jackson, a two-time NFL Most Valuable Player, has missed the past two games, raising questions about his availability for the upcoming clash against the Chicago Bears.
Ravens coach John Harbaugh expressed hope for Jackson's return but was tight-lipped when pressed about the quarterback's status. The absence of Jackson has been keenly felt by the struggling Ravens, who have sputtered offensively in his absence, tallying only 13 points in the two games missed by the dynamic playmaker. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush has stepped in but failed to replicate Jackson's impact on the field.
Furthermore, Baltimore's lackluster start to the season, currently standing at 1-5, has put pressure on the team to turn things around quickly. The Ravens are eager for Jackson to return as he has been a cornerstone of their success since taking over as the starting quarterback in 2018. With a win-loss record of 74-32 with Jackson under center compared to 4-12 without him, the significance of his presence in the lineup cannot be overstated.
In Jackson's absence, the Ravens have struggled to find consistency and their playoff hopes hang in the balance. ESPN Analytics puts their chances of making the playoffs at 28.6%, making every game a crucial opportunity to right the ship. Cornerback Marlon Humphrey remains optimistic about the team's prospects, emphasizing their belief in turning the season around.
Looking ahead to the Week 8 matchup, the Ravens are set to host the Chicago Bears at M&T Bank Stadium. The Bears, with a 4-2 record, have shown solidity this season and pose a significant challenge for the Ravens. The focal point of discussion leading up to this crucial game remains Lamar Jackson's return and the impact it could have on the outcome.
The panel of NFL experts at USA TODAY has shared their predictions for the showdown between the Bears and Ravens. The spotlight truly rests on Jackson's availability and the effect of his potential return on the Ravens' fortunes. The Ravens will be hoping for a swift recovery from Jackson to bolster their chances against a resolute Bears team.
As the game day approaches, both teams are preparing for a pivotal clash that could have implications on their respective seasons. The Ravens eagerly await Jackson's return, while the Bears aim to build on their recent successes as they enter this critical matchup. Both teams will be looking to secure a crucial victory as they navigate through a challenging NFL season.
