Jamison Hensley
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — In his first sport in 32 days, quarterback Lamar Jackson instantly returned to his MVP type and supplied hope that the Baltimore Ravens can get again into the playoff hunt.
After lacking three video games with a proper hamstring harm, Jackson threw 4 touchdowns in a 28-6 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night time. The Ravens (3-5) have shaken off a 1-5 begin to near inside 1.5 video games of the AFC North-leading Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3).
“He is a two-time MVP for a motive,” tight finish Mark Andrews stated of Jackson after the sport. “With [No.] 8 main the cost, we're a harmful staff.”
Jackson hadn't performed since injuring his hamstring Sept. 28 towards the Chiefs in Kansas Metropolis. In his first sport again, he accomplished 78% of his makes an attempt (18 of 23) for 204 yards.
Acknowledging he felt “a bit bit” rusty on the primary drive, Jackson went on to attach with Andrews for landing passes of two and 20 yards and added TD throws to tight finish Charlie Kolar (3 yards) and vast receiver Rashod Bateman (9 yards).
“It is superior,” Jackson stated. “I simply wished to get on the market with my guys … it was simply nice to be again and get a W.”
This was additionally a homecoming for Jackson, who grew up in South Florida. Of Jackson's 13 profession video games with 4 or extra landing passes, three of them have come towards the Dolphins, his most towards any staff.
“Everytime you're away from the sport, you miss it,” working again Derrick Henry stated. “It was even higher that, when he got here again, it was in his hometown. So, it most likely gave him a bit extra juice.”
Jackson returned to apply final week as a restricted participant however did not obtain reps with the beginning offense. Within the fast turnaround to a Thursday night time sport, Jackson solely had one full apply with the primary staff earlier than taking part in the Dolphins.
He did not run usually towards Miami exterior of a 13-yard scramble early within the third quarter, however he confirmed nice mobility within the pocket to keep away from strain. He went 5 of seven for 71 yards and three touchdowns when beneath duress, that are probably the most such landing passes by a QB this season, in response to ESPN Analysis.
“I did not have any issues,” Jackson stated of his hamstring. “I used to be feeling good on the market.”
With Jackson, the Ravens regarded like a high-powered offense once more. Within the three video games that he missed, Baltimore averaged 14.3 factors. With Jackson this season, the Ravens now are averaging 31.8 factors.
Ravens coach John Harbaugh instructed Jackson after the sport that “it has been a protracted journey.”
Harbaugh added: “I am pleased with the best way he got here out and performed.”
After tying the worst begin within the franchise's 30-year historical past, the Ravens have received two video games in 5 days and have an opportunity to go on a run. Baltimore's subsequent 4 opponents on the Vikings and Browns and residential towards the Jets and Bengals — are a mixed 9-22 (.290).
“Having your MVP again,” Kolar stated, “it simply brings a complete new degree of confidence within the staff.”
