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Lamar Jackson and Joe Flacco were comparative passers as rookies

By Chris Schisler

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 06: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens throws a pass against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first quarter in the AFC Wild Card Playoff game at M&T Bank Stadium on January 06, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 06: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens throws a pass against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first quarter in the AFC Wild Card Playoff game at M&T Bank Stadium on January 06, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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What lessons can the Ravens take from how they brought Joe Flacco along in his first season as they get Lamar Jackson going?

Joe Flacco was replaced by Lamar Jackson as the Baltimore Ravens starting quarterback last season. It’s been a while since the Ravens were dealing with a young and inexperienced quarterback. Let’s rewind back to 2008.

In Joe Flacco’s rookie year the Ravens reached the AFC Championship game, but his statistics weren’t impressive. He had 2,971 passing yards. He had 14 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Flacco’s first touchdown (through the air) didn’t come until week 4 in Pittsburgh. Flacco’s first season saw him throw for over 200 yards in only four games. He averaged 185.6 yards per game.

Flacco had success behind a strong running game and a top notch defense. He stepped up in big moments. When he found Derrick Mason deep down the sideline for a playoff touchdown against the Tennessee Titans, that was a sign that something strong was starting to come together. That playoff game is one of the most memorable moments from his rookie year but the Ravens still only won 13-10. It was an ugly, grind it out kind of game and the entire season was just like that.

Flacco entered his second season knowing he could do this. Flacco had 3,613 yards with 21 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Flacco found a groove and became a legitimate franchise quarterback. While he was never a great quarterback, he stepped up in the playoffs and became a Super Bowl MVP. Baltimore should appreciate Flacco’s journey, but that’s not the point of this writing.

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