Lamar Jackson wasn’t about to let the blame game define the Baltimore Ravens’ heartbreaking 27-25 loss to the Buffalo Bills in the Divisional Round. After Mark Andrews’ dropped two-point conversion in the final minutes sealed Baltimore’s fate, Jackson stood tall beside his guy Andrews, defending his Pro Bowl tight end with unwavering loyalty.
“I’m not gonna put that on Mark, bro,” Jackson said after the game, his voice resolute. “We’re a team. It’s not his fault. We’re not gonna put that on Mark.”
It’s the kind of accountability Ravens fans have come to expect from their quarterback. Sure, Jackson could’ve pointed to Andrews’ struggles—three costly errors, including a fumble and two crucial drops—but instead, he put the focus squarely on himself.
“We got to protect the ball, especially me,” Jackson said repeatedly, referencing his two first-half turnovers that led to a Buffalo touchdown and a 14-7 lead. The star quarterback owned his role in the loss, refusing to let Andrews shoulder the burden alone.
#Ravens QB Lamar Jackson: “Turnovers. We can’t have that sh*t. … Hold onto the f**king ball. I'm sorry for my language. This sh*t is annoying. I'm tired of this sh*t."
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 20, 2025
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Lamar Jackson isn't playing the Mark Andrews blame game
Andrews will undoubtedly replay the final moments in his head. After an incredible late drive from Jackson that included a 24-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Likely, the Ravens lined up for the game-tying two-point conversion. Andrews broke free in the end zone but couldn’t secure the pass as it bounced off his chest.
For a player as consistent and reliable as Andrews, it was a stunning sequence. But Jackson’s message on the sideline after the drop was clear: “We’re a team.”
Despite Andrews’ struggles, the loss wasn’t on one player. Baltimore’s three turnovers, a slew of missed tackles, and an inability to capitalize on opportunities all played a role in the defeat.
Jackson knows playoff football is unforgiving. He’s now 3-5 in the postseason, and while the criticism will undoubtedly land on his shoulders, his refusal to throw his teammate under the bus says everything about his leadership.
The Ravens’ season ended in heartbreak, but Jackson’s defense of Andrews shows the kind of locker room culture that’s been built in Baltimore. Mistakes happen, but Jackson made it clear that the team wins—and loses—together.
For now, the Ravens head into another offseason of “what-ifs.” But if there’s one thing Ravens Flock can count on, it’s a quarterback who will fight for his teammates no matter what. After the game, Jackson’s words summed it up best: “It’s not his fault. We’re a team.”