For the most part, Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson era has been characterized by nothing but success. In four of the six seasons that he has been the starting quarterback for the Ravens, Jackson has appeared in at least 13 games. The Ravens have made five postseason appearances during that time and are three-time AFC North champions. Despite their consistent dominance in the regular season, the Ravens have a history of losing in the NFL playoffs. Jackson had two one-and-done postseason runs and a meager 2-4 record in his six career playoff appearances.
This postseason, Jackson and company will try to change the narrative and dispel the notion that they can’t succeed there. The first opponent is the Steelers, a divisional rival that the Ravens easily defeated 34–17 in Week 16. Jackson will have to win this game without his best receiver, Zay Flowers, who is battling a knee ailment, even if the Ravens are predicted to win. Let’s examine who Jackson might be depending on with Flowers out as the Ravens get ready to meet the Steelers over wild-card weekend.
An update on Zay Flowers’ injuries
During Week 18 against the Browns, Flowers suffered a knee injury. He skipped practice during the week before the Ravens’ wild-card game because he couldn’t return to the game. If Baltimore makes it to the divisional round, Flowers’ condition should be constantly watched as he was diagnosed with an LCL sprain.
NFL COACHING NEWS:
Ravens WR depth chart
Rank & Name
1 Zay Flowers*
2 Rashod Bateman
3 Nelson Agholor
4 Tylan Wallace
Rashod Bateman and Nelson Agholor are the next men up in the wide receiver room in Flowers’ absence versus the Steelers. With 45 receptions for 756 yards and nine touchdowns, Bateman is having a breakout season. In Flowers’ absence, expect Bateman to play a key role. In this one, Jackson will also rely on Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews, two tight ends. On Saturday night, Baltimore will probably use a full 12 players (2 TE, 2 WR, and 1 RB on the field). Although Andrews has been a reliable member of this offense for many years, he probably has a chance to establish himself nationally.
