The Baltimore Ravens were expected to encounter offensive issues in Week 5 without Lamar Jackson, but few expected it to be as bad as it was. They scored just 10 points in a blowout loss, and only tallied 207 yards (163 passing and 44 rushing).
Cooper Rush was at the center of attention on Sunday, and while he did not exactly play well, his stats made his performance seem far worse than it actually was. He was 14-for-20 on pass attempts and threw for 179 yards and three interceptions.
However, two of those interceptions could have been avoided. Mark Andrews dropped a pass that popped up into the hands of Jalen Pitre, and Rashod Bateman pulled up on his route late in the fourth quarter, allowing Kamari Lassiter to go up for an easy interception.
Still, the offense struggled to find a rhythm under Rush. It is clear that an offense designed for Jackson did not mesh with Rush, and it sounds like there could already be changes on the horizon.
In his press conference on Monday, Head Coach John Harbaugh highlighted how they are looking into every change imaginable after such an abysmal showing in Week 5. That includes the possibility of Tyler Huntley getting reps in Week 6 against the Los Angeles Rams.
“We’ll consider everything,” Harbaugh said regarding Huntley potentially seeing an opportunity. “We’ll consider every part of it to try and get the win. That’ll be talked about in the next 24 hours.”
Tyler Huntley in consideration for starting reps in Week 6
Of course, Jackson could still play in Week 6. As the week goes on, more updates on the two-time MVP’s status will be provided, but for now, he could be in play to return from injury. However, the Ravens must be cautious with a hamstring injury, especially with a player like Jackson. If he is out for another week, as reports suggest, Huntley could be the more logical option to suit up under center.
Huntley has familiarity with Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken’s system, and his play style seems more suitable for Baltimore’s unit at this point. They are struggling to get the run game going, and as Huntley provides a threat with his legs, the rushing attack could open up a lot more.
The 27-year-old also brings adequate accuracy. While the big-play ability would take a hit, his career 64.6 completion percentage is enough to keep opposing defenses honest. Huntley would need to prove to be smarter with the football, but if Monken can simplify the passing game and let the run game go to work, the offense could look far more fluid than it did in Week 5.