The Baltimore Ravens have experienced a rollercoaster of seasons since their last Super Bowl victory in 2012. From the highs of Lamar Jackson’s MVP season in 2019 to the lows of early playoff exits and injury struggles, the Ravens’ quest for another championship has been marked by both promise and frustration. At the heart of this journey is Lamar Jackson, the dynamic quarterback who has the potential to elevate the team to the highest of heights — but whether he can lead the Ravens back to the Super Bowl is still a question that hangs over the franchise.
In this article, we’ll break down what needs to happen for Lamar Jackson to not only remain the centerpiece of the Ravens’ offense but also to finally bring a second Lombardi Trophy to Baltimore.
1. Lamar Jackson Needs to Stay Healthy
This one is obvious, but it’s crucial: Lamar Jackson’s health will be the most significant factor in whether the Ravens can make a Super Bowl run. Over the last few seasons, Jackson has missed key games due to injuries, including an ankle sprain that sidelined him during the 2021 season and a knee injury that kept him out for several games in 2022.
Injuries have slowed Jackson’s development and limited his ability to lead the team deep into the playoffs. The NFL is an unforgiving league, and without a healthy Lamar Jackson, the Ravens don’t have a viable path to the Super Bowl.
What Needs to Happen:
- Improved Protection: The offensive line must keep Jackson upright, particularly with the emphasis on better pass protection. While the Ravens’ run game has been effective, Jackson needs time in the pocket to make plays in the passing game.
- Smart Play Calling: Coach John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Todd Monken must ensure that Jackson isn’t overexposed. Limiting design runs and finding ways to keep him safe in the pocket are crucial.
2. Lamar Jackson Needs Consistent Receiving Help
In recent years, one of the biggest criticisms of the Ravens’ offense has been their lack of dynamic playmakers in the passing game. While Mark Andrews is one of the top tight ends in the NFL, the Ravens’ wide receiver corps has struggled to consistently produce big plays.
The addition of Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flowers has given Jackson two significant weapons on the outside. Beckham, despite being in the later stages of his career, still has the potential to make a major impact with his route-running and ability to stretch the field. Flowers, a rookie out of Boston College, brings speed and an ability to separate from defenders, something the Ravens have sorely missed.
What Needs to Happen:
- Chemistry with Receivers: Jackson and his new receivers need time to build chemistry, particularly with Odell Beckham Jr., who missed much of the last two seasons. If they can develop a strong rapport, it will open up the offense and force opposing defenses to respect the passing game.
- Role Definition: Zay Flowers needs to emerge as a legitimate deep threat, while Mark Andrews remains the primary target in critical situations. Jackson needs consistent targets to get the ball to when the game is on the line.
3. Lamar Jackson Needs a Balanced Offensive Scheme
While Lamar Jackson has always been known for his ability to run, one of the keys to the Ravens’ Super Bowl hopes will be his ability to thrive within a more traditional, balanced offense. Under the previous offensive coordinator Greg Roman, the Ravens relied heavily on Jackson’s rushing ability and a run-first attack. But with the arrival of Todd Monken, the offense is expected to evolve into a more pass-oriented system, one that plays to Jackson’s strengths as a playmaker but also demands more precision in the air.
Jackson has proven that he can thrive with his legs, but he’s also shown growth as a passer. A more balanced offense that incorporates both elements will keep defenses on their toes and allow Lamar to attack in multiple ways.
What Needs to Happen:
- Effective Play Calling: Todd Monken must strike the right balance between using Lamar’s legs to move the chains and using the pass game to stretch defenses. This means not over-relying on Jackson to run the ball but keeping him as a dual threat that can kill defenses through the air and on the ground.
- Utilize the Play-Action Game: One of Jackson’s best attributes is his ability to deceive defenders with play-action. The Ravens must use this more frequently, especially with a better passing game in place, to open up deep shots to Beckham, Flowers, and Andrews.
4. Lamar Jackson Needs to Elevate His Passing Game
Though Jackson’s throwing ability has improved over the years, he is still often criticized for his inconsistency as a passer. His deep ball accuracy has been questioned, and at times, his timing and anticipation have been off. If the Ravens are to make a Super Bowl run, Jackson will need to elevate his passing game to the level of his rushing ability.
This doesn’t mean Jackson needs to become a traditional pocket passer like Patrick Mahomes or Tom Brady. But he does need to show that he can be a consistent, accurate thrower in crucial moments — particularly in the red zone and on third downs.
What Needs to Happen:
- Focus on Accuracy and Timing: Jackson must develop more consistency with his deep throws and improve his timing on shorter routes. Getting the ball out quicker and with better accuracy will allow his receivers to make more plays after the catch.
- Confidence in the Pocket: There are times when Jackson hesitates in the pocket or escapes too quickly. He needs to trust his offensive line and his improved weapons, waiting for the play to develop rather than relying too heavily on his legs.
5. Lamar Jackson Needs a Strong Defensive Performance
While the offense will naturally get most of the attention, the Ravens’ defense will also play a crucial role in their Super Bowl aspirations. The Ravens’ defense, led by Roquan Smith, Marlon Humphrey, and Patrick Queen, has the talent to shut down high-powered offenses. However, the defense will need to be elite, especially in playoff games where opposing teams can capitalize on any mistake.
What Needs to Happen:
- Dominant Pass Rush: The Ravens need to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. If the defense can make life difficult for quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Josh Allen, it will give Lamar Jackson and the offense a better chance to score.
- Turnovers: The Ravens must create turnovers. Marlon Humphrey and Marcus Williams must be ball hawks in the secondary, while the defensive line needs to generate strip sacks and force fumbles to give Jackson extra possessions.
Conclusion: Can Lamar Jackson Lead the Ravens Back to the Super Bowl?
The answer is yes — but it’s not guaranteed. Lamar Jackson has all the tools to be the centerpiece of a Super Bowl-winning team. However, it will take a combination of health, a revamped offensive scheme, strong receiver play, and consistent defense for the Ravens to finally get over the hump and hoist the Lombardi Trophy once again.
If Lamar Jackson stays healthy, develops his passing game, builds chemistry with his new receivers, and the defense continues to play at a high level, the Ravens will have as good a chance as any to win the AFC and bring home a championship.
For Ravens fans, the hope is that the 2023 season will be the year that everything finally comes together, and Lamar Jackson leads the charge to a long-awaited Super Bowl victory.
