Baltimore Ravens backup quarterback Tyler "Snoop" Huntley stepped up in a big spot last week, leading the team to an overtime win over the Atlanta Falcons. This was far from his first time coming through, as he has a solid 8-9 record, including a big win against the Green Bay Packers last year to keep their season alive.
With how things are trending, the Ravens might need more of the same. Lamar Jackson seems unlikely to play as the Ravens prepare for a showdown with their division rival, the Cleveland Browns.
As of Thursday, Jackson has yet to practice this week. While he hasn't been ruled out yet as of Friday morning, and Jesse Minter hasn't said that he has to practice, Jeff Zrebiec noted, "Seems pretty obvious where this is headed."
The Baltimore Ravens will need another strong showing from Tyler Huntley if Lamar Jackson is out
Huntley could have an even bigger challenge on his hands this week. Browns coach Todd Monken knows Huntley well, as the Ravens' former offensive coordinator. Plus, both Rashod Bateman and John Simpson didn't practice, while both Zay Flowers and Cam Jurgens were limited on Thursday. In fact, 21 Ravens players have had some sort of injury designation this week.
The Browns aren't healthy either, with Carson Schwesinger and Mason Graham seemingly poised to miss Sunday's game. Since the Browns are likely down two of their best defensive players, Huntley could be in position to put together another big game. However, the Ravens' injury concerns and Monken's history with the Ravens loom large.
Plus, being without some key starters, or if those starters aren't at 100 percent, wouldn't be ideal. As such, Sunday could be a real test for Huntley.
Thankfully, Snoop has proven he can come through when the Ravens need him to.
Make no mistake: Huntley is a quality backup. He might not be flashy or have the strongest arm in the world, but he's highly accurate with great game-management chops. During his one-and-a-half games so far this season, Huntley has completed 78 percent of his passes.
He makes smart passes, keeps the chains moving, and ultimately puts the Ravens offense in position to win. Last week, the Ravens' Huntley-led offense racked up 391 yards and 30 points. It wasn't always pretty, but it proved to be effective. Declan Doyle's scheme creativity also helped, and it's easy to believe that he'll put Huntley in a spot to succeed again.
Expect the Ravens to feed Derrick Henry. He should be the focal point if Lamar Jackson can't go. Regardless, Huntley's short-yardage passing abilities and strong decision-making will also be central to the Ravens' offensive success.
If he can make smart decisions with the ball and move the chains, then the Ravens will be well on their way to win again and move up to 5-1. The AFC North is shaping up to be a tight battle, and dropping a divisional game wouldn't be ideal.
Assuming Jackson's status is trending the way it looks to be, there will be a lot of weight on Huntley's shoulders this Sunday, but he's proven he can come up clutch when the pressure's on.
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