As Lamar Jackson’s MVP buzz builds, Ravens QB focuses on ‘winning in February’

BALTIMORE – Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is playing some of the best football of his career through six games this season. He’s thrown for 1,529 yards with 10 touchdowns and only two interceptions while also rushing for 403 yards and two touchdowns on 64 carries. These numbers surpass what he achieved in the same period last year when he was named NFL MVP for the second time. Jackson currently ranks third in expected points added per pass and eighth in rushing yards among all players. Baltimore’s offense ranks first in defense-adjusted value over average (DVOA).

When asked about his performance, Jackson downplayed it, saying, “Everything is just second nature right now… everything is slowing down.” As the game appears to slow down for Jackson, who is known for his electrifying play, the talk of another MVP award has intensified. Over Baltimore’s four-game winning streak, Jackson has a 70.3% completion rate, is second in yards per drop-back (9.1), and has thrown eight touchdowns to just one interception while rushing for 236 yards. In his recent games against the Bengals and Commanders, Jackson racked up 766 total yards and five touchdown passes.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh acknowledged this may be Jackson’s best season yet, attributing it to his continued development. Baltimore’s offense is excelling in several categories, including leading the league in yards per game (453.7) and third-down conversion rate (51.47%). Their rushing game, powered by Derrick Henry, is also the best in the league, which has eased the burden on Jackson, allowing him to thrive in play-action passing.

Jackson’s presnap reads have been a significant factor in his success, with analysts comparing his command of the offense to that of legends like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. The emergence of playmakers like Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely has further enhanced Baltimore’s dynamic offense. Now in his second year under offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Jackson is more comfortable in the system, which has only elevated his play.

While the MVP talk grows, Jackson remains focused on the ultimate goal: winning a Super Bowl. “I really don’t care about the hype,” Jackson said. “I’m still trying to win these games to get to February and win in February.” With 10 more regular-season games ahead, including crucial AFC North matchups, Jackson’s eyes are set firmly on the bigger prize, not just individual accolades.