Ravens QB Lamar Jackson had a huge night on the ground in Thursday's opener vs. the Chiefs, carrying 16 times for 122 yards. It was the third-biggest rushing tally of his carry. Jackson was particularly effective on scrambles, racking up 90 yards on nine attempts. His seven designed carries went for 32 yards. Jackson had an OK night as a passer, throwing for 273 yards, one TD, and 0 INTs on a 63% completion rate and 6.7 yards per attempt. He notably missed a wide-open WR Zay Flowers in the back of the end zone on the penultimate play of the game. Jackson then appeared to connect with TE Isaiah Likely for the game-tying score -- but replay showed that Likely's toe was just barely out of bounds.
The NBC crew mentioned multiple times during this game that Jackson dropped weight this offseason. That moves appears set to pay off: He looked more quick and explosive than he has in at least a few years. Jackson has a shot to post his third career 1,000-yard rushing season -- and first since 2020.
This passing game is also getting a boost with Likely's emergence. He was huge in this game, catching 9 of 12 targets for 111 yards and Jackson's lone TD. WR Zay Flowers also looked good, drawing multiple penalties.
We'd like to see more downfield shots from this passing game going forward, and a remade offensive line was an issue in this one. But Jackson is clearly on track for another big fantasy season.
Next up is the home opener against the Raiders, followed by a likely shootout in Dallas.
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