The Baltimore Ravens will be without their franchise quarterback for the second consecutive week as Lamar Jackson has officially been ruled out of Sunday’s AFC North matchup against the Cleveland Browns.
Jackson continues to recover from an ankle injury suffered during Baltimore’s Week 4 victory over the Tennessee Titans. The two-time NFL MVP has not practiced since sustaining the injury, prompting first-year head coach Jesse Minter to keep him sidelined for another week. (NFL.com)
Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley will once again lead Baltimore’s offense after helping the Ravens secure a dramatic 30-23 overtime victory against the Atlanta Falcons last Sunday. Huntley completed 24 of 32 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns while adding another score on the ground.
Despite Jackson’s absence, Baltimore enters Sunday’s contest with a 4-1 record and control of the AFC North. Cleveland, meanwhile, sits at 3-2 and has an opportunity to move into first place with a victory over its division rival. (Reuters)
The matchup also carries an interesting storyline on the sidelines. Browns head coach Todd Monken previously served as Baltimore’s offensive coordinator for three seasons, giving Cleveland a familiar face with extensive knowledge of the Ravens’ offensive system and personnel.
For Cleveland, containing Huntley’s mobility and forcing Baltimore into difficult passing situations could be critical. The Browns are also monitoring injuries to several defensive contributors, including Mason Graham and Carson Schwesinger, both of whom returned to practice Friday.
Baltimore will look to maintain its momentum without its biggest offensive weapon, while Cleveland has an opportunity to capitalize on Jackson’s absence and make an early statement in the division race. (Baltimore Ravens)
Sunday’s matchup is scheduled for a 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, with significant implications for the early AFC North standings.
