Ravens Refuse Excuses as Historic Struggles Continue Without Lamar Jackson

A Historic Drop in Performance

The Baltimore Ravens suffered a 33-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday night. The defeat dropped Baltimore to a 4-5 record, while the Jaguars improved to 6-2. Running back Derrick Henry made his frustration clear right after the game, stating that things were not good enough and that Jacksonville was the better team.

This slump has reached historic levels for Baltimore. The team has failed to score more than 14 points in four straight games, setting a new franchise record. Baltimore also lost by 20 points or more in three consecutive games for the first time in its 31 year history.

Quarterback Problems and Offensive Woes

Star quarterback Lamar Jackson missed three games with a high left ankle sprain before returning against the Buffalo Bills. On his first snap in that 36-10 loss, Jackson injured his right thumb. The team placed Jackson on injured reserve before Thursday's game, ruling him out for at least three weeks.

Coach Jesse Minter declined to say if Jackson had surgery or if he might return this season. Minter also did not confirm reports about a trade for veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett.

With backup Tyler Snoop Huntley out with a toe injury, undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano got his first career start. Fagnano threw only one pass longer than 10 yards, averaging 3.3 yards per pass attempt. That is the lowest average by any quarterback this season. Henry took 10 snaps directly out of the Wildcat formation. The offense produced just 55 passing yards, its lowest total in nine years.

No Excuses from Players or Coaches

Despite the missing players, team leaders refuse to make excuses. Offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley stated that the players are all professionals with a job to do. Tight end Mark Andrews noted that Jackson will be sorely missed, but added that the team has talented players who must put out a better product.

Mistakes continue to hurt the team. Baltimore committed four false starts against Jacksonville, raising its league leading total to 24. The penalty trouble led offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford to throw his tablet on the sideline in frustration.

The Ravens now have an 11 day break before hosting the winless Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football. Coach Minter stated that he still believes in his players and sees a good opportunity if the team can find consistency.