2018 Baltimore Ravens: 5 potential X-factors

Today we look at the Baltimore Ravens who could be an X-Factor in the 2018 season:

5. Lamar Jackson

Jackson could be a X-Factor even if he does not unseat Joe Flacco from the starting quarterback position. If Jackson lights it up in the exhibition games of the preseason, Flacco will feel the pressure. Alex Smith came out of the gates hot after the Chiefs drafted Pat Mahomes. Flacco may have a similar experience; and if he motivates a trade next offseason the Ravens would dig that. Jackson could allow the Ravens to get the most out of Flacco and that in itself makes him an X-Factor.

Jackson also could work into the offense alongside Flacco. The wild cat (which they should totally call the wild Jacks) is certainly an option for the Ravens offense. Trick plays are an option for the offense as well. Nobody can ever forget the long pass Troy Smith made to Joe Flacco against the Oakland Raiders. When the Ravens had Tyrod Taylor, Flacco voiced displeasure for it, but at the time he had more of a leg to stand on. Jackson is here because Flacco was looking much closer to a Blaine Gabbert than he was a Tom Brady. Flacco has to be a team player, and he knows it.

It’s hard not to daydream of a scenario where Flacco gets benched in the second half of a game and Jackson leads Baltimore to a comeback win. Every time Jackson touches the field, it’s going to fuel excitement. This energy may be a catalyst to change a game or two this season. Even if Jackson doesn’t get his big chance this year, keeping Flacco honest is enough to make him an X-factor candidate.