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Ravens celebrate victory over Ravens

The roll should continue for the Baltimore Ravens and Lamar Jackson, their exciting, second-year quarterback.

The Ravens (11-2), who already have clinched a playoff berth, can win the AFC North with a victory Thursday night at home against the New York Jets (5-8).

Jackson is only the second quarterback in NFL history to rush for more than 1,000 yards, but his passing impresses at least as much. Half of his six interceptions came in one game and he has thrown just one in the last eight games. His 28 touchdown passes, 66.3 passing percentage and ability to extend plays with his legs (thereby stretching defenses) are all part of a most serious dash toward being named the NFL’s MVP.

You can watch him and the Raven’s NFL-leading running game at 8:20 p.m. ET on Fox and NFL Network.

The Ravens have won nine consecutive games, but let’s not hand them this victory over the Jets without them taking the field and earning it.

The Jets have won four of their last five, including a last-second comeback against the Miami Dolphins. On their best days, which are a bit more frequent as the season winds down, they’re at least competitive, even though they haven’t beaten a team that currently has a winning record.

Jackson sparks the Ravens with dynamic exhibitions of moves in the open field and his improved passing and running back Mark Ingram powers the rest of the rushing attack. The 236 points allowed is third-best in the NFL.
The Ravens will be a force in the playoffs. If you’ve not gotten a good look at them, tonight’s the night.

 
 
Post By: Larry Weisman, a longtime sportswriter for USA TODAY, blogs for Twistity.com. Follow him on Twitter @MrLarryWeisman