Cleveland Browns fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter officially ruled out two-time MVP Lamar Jackson for Sunday’s matchup. Jackson, who has not participated in practice since suffering an ankle injury 12 days ago, will miss his second consecutive game. Minter emphasized that the decision prioritizes the quarterback’s long-term health, stating, “It’s day-by-day, I would say… I think it’s just a decision for his best interest.” With the star signal-caller sidelined, the Ravens shift their offensive focus entirely to their backup, setting the stage for a critical test of Cleveland’s defensive front.
Two-time MVP sits out again as backup QB aims for fourth straight win.
In Jackson’s absence, Tyler “Snoop” Huntley is set to start for the second straight week. Huntley has emerged as a reliable stopgap, leading Baltimore to a dramatic comeback overtime victory in Atlanta last week. His performance has been pivotal, extending his winning streak to three consecutive starts dating back to last season. For the Browns, this presents a unique opportunity to exploit potential inconsistencies in the Ravens’ passing game without dealing with Jackson’s elite mobility and improvisational skills. Cleveland’s defense must capitalize on this window to control the tempo and limit Huntley’s ability to extend plays.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Ravens will be fully intact with top pass rusher Trey Hendrickson confirmed as a starter. Hendrickson, who was a full participant in all practices this week, has no designation on the final injury report, signaling he is ready to disrupt the Browns’ offensive line. His presence is crucial for Baltimore to maintain pressure on Cleveland’s quarterback, ensuring the game remains competitive despite the absence of their franchise quarterback. As the Ravens look to extend their winning streak, the Browns must navigate a balanced opponent that features elite defensive talent and a surprisingly effective backup quarterback.
Source: Baltimore Ravens
