The Ravens vs. Patriots showdown on Sunday night was dramatically altered when Lamar Jackson was ruled out in the first half with a back injury, leaving the Baltimore Ravens without their most important player at a crucial stage of the NFL season.
For UK fans watching the late-night action, the injury overshadowed what had already been a tense and physical contest, one that was also shaped by a controversial roughing call that sparked debate among supporters and pundits alike.
What exactly happened to Lamar Jackson during Ravens vs Patriots?
Jackson suffered the injury late in the second quarter, shortly after the two-minute warning. He attempted a short run, gained only a few yards, and immediately appeared uncomfortable as he returned to the huddle.
Moments later, he walked off the field under his own power but headed straight down the tunnel.
The Ravens later confirmed that Jackson was dealing with a back injury and would not return. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley replaced him before halftime and remained under centre for the entire second half.
“Lamar Jackson has been ruled out with a back injury,” the team announced during the live broadcast.
How was Lamar Jackson playing before he was forced off?
Before the injury, Jackson was efficient rather than explosive, but he was clearly in control of the Ravens’ offence. He completed seven of his ten passing attempts for 101 yards and added two short runs for seven yards.
While he did not throw a touchdown, Baltimore was moving the ball steadily and keeping New England’s defence honest.
His calm start made the sudden exit even more damaging, particularly against a Patriots side known for capitalising on opposition mistakes.
Who took over at quarterback for Baltimore?
With Jackson unavailable, the responsibility fell to Tyler Huntley, a familiar figure to Ravens fans. Huntley has starting experience from previous seasons, but stepping in mid-game against a well-drilled Patriots defence is never straightforward.
The Ravens were forced to simplify parts of their offensive play-calling, leaning more heavily on the running game and short passes as Huntley settled into the contest.
Are injuries becoming a recurring issue for Lamar Jackson this season?
This latest setback adds to growing concerns about Jackson’s availability during the 2024 campaign.
Before Sunday night, he had played in only 11 of Baltimore’s first 14 games, missing three with a hamstring injury earlier in the season.
He has also been listed as limited or absent in multiple practice sessions due to various minor issues.
In October, the situation was further complicated when the NFL fined the Ravens $100,000 (around £79,000) for breaching injury report rules after Jackson was incorrectly listed ahead of a game against the Chicago Bears.
The incident placed Baltimore under increased scrutiny regarding how Jackson’s fitness is managed.
How does this injury affect the AFC North race?
The timing could hardly be worse for Baltimore. The Ravens entered Week 16 with a 7–7 record, having gone 6–5 in games started by Jackson.
A win against New England was crucial to keep pace with the Pittsburgh Steelers, who improved to 9–6 earlier on Sunday with a victory over the Detroit Lions.
Without Jackson, Baltimore’s margin for error in the AFC North has all but disappeared. Any extended absence could leave them relying on other results rather than controlling their own destiny.
Why is Lamar Jackson so vital to the Ravens’ entire system?
Jackson remains the engine of Baltimore’s offence, not just because of his passing ability but due to the unique threat he poses as a runner.
Entering Sunday night, he had thrown for 2,210 yards and 18 touchdowns this season, while also rushing for 333 yards and two more scores.
He is currently in the third year of a five-year, $260 million contract, worth approximately £206 million, signed before the 2023 season. With that level of investment, every injury inevitably fuels debate about durability, workload and long-term planning.
Pelissero: The Ravens have now ruled out QB Lamar Jackson …
— from r/nfl
What happens next for Baltimore?
The immediate focus will be on medical evaluations to determine the severity of Jackson’s back injury. The Ravens are expected to provide an update in the coming days, which will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
If Jackson is unable to return quickly, Baltimore must prepare to finish the season with Huntley at quarterback while hoping results elsewhere keep them in playoff contention.
