Lamar Jackson delivered a performance for the ages in a stunning 41-38 overtime victory against the Cincinnati Bengals, which many are calling the highlight of his career. Jackson threw for 348 yards and four touchdowns while adding 55 rushing yards, showing his dynamic ability as both a passer and runner. A particularly memorable moment occurred when he turned a botched snap into a spectacular play, stiff-arming Bengals defensive end Sam Hubbard near the sideline and then finding tight end Isaiah Likely for a 6-yard touchdown.
Pundits have taken notice, with Chris Simms calling Jackson “crazy talented” on Pro Football Talk, emphasizing his dual-threat capability. Jackson’s passing was especially sharp in this game, as he connected seven times with rookie wide receiver Zay Flowers for 111 yards. His arm became crucial when the Ravens’ run game slowed, but his accuracy and decision-making kept the offense moving.
In addition to Jackson’s heroics, the Ravens’ defense stepped up in key moments. Marlon Humphrey’s late-game interception of Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and Justin Tucker’s clutch 56-yard field goal helped send the game to overtime. Derrick Henry also made a significant contribution, with a 51-yard run setting up Tucker’s game-winning field goal in overtime.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh praised Jackson as “the best weapon in football” after their impressive victory, which added to their winning streak that included triumphs over both Buffalo and Cincinnati. With three consecutive wins, Baltimore is making a strong case for being a serious contender in the AFC.
On the other side, the Kansas City Chiefs and their star quarterback Patrick Mahomes have looked uncharacteristically off. While the Chiefs have become a more defense-oriented team this season, Mahomes himself has struggled at times. He acknowledged his own difficulties, particularly when discussing a missed throw intended for tight end Travis Kelce against the Chargers. Instead of the explosive, high-powered offense fans are used to, the Chiefs are relying on a more grinding, defensive style of play.
There is growing speculation that Lamar Jackson might now be the best quarterback in the AFC, a title Mahomes has held in recent years. Pundits like Chris Simms have openly questioned the hierarchy, wondering whether Jackson has overtaken Mahomes, or if the Chiefs’ star will reclaim his throne. With Baltimore’s dominant performances and Kansas City’s struggles, the Ravens are quickly emerging as a serious threat in what has been a Chiefs-dominated conference. The looming Week 17 showdown between the Ravens and Chiefs could ultimately decide the AFC’s top spot.
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