The Baltimore Ravens are running out of answers at quarterback, and the Pittsburgh Steelers couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity to strengthen their grip on the AFC North. Lamar Jackson’s latest injury has forced Baltimore into an unexpected quarterback search eight games into the campaign.
Jackson is headed to injured reserve after suffering a right thumb injury Sunday afternoon. The hand will require surgery, keeping the Ravens' offensive leader out for at least four games. With Tyler Huntley now out for the season due to turf toe, the Ravens face uncertainty under center. In Week 8, rookie Joe Fagnano stepped into Baltimore’s vacant QB role. He’s also expected to start Thursday night against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
That’s a nightmare to deal with while sitting at the bottom of the AFC North.
Meanwhile, Mike McCarthy’s Steelers sit comfortably at 6-2, leaving their division rivals scrambling to keep pace before the Nov. 10 deadline. Pittsburgh has a two-game advantage over Baltimore. The Ravens are also 0-2 against AFC North opponents.
While Pittsburgh rests during its Week 9 bye week, Jesse Minter and his staff must evaluate the roster to try to save the season. They’ve lost three consecutive games and need a momentum boost to remain competitive in the division.
But will a trade for an interim quarterback help the Ravens climb out from the bottom of the AFC North?
Recent performances make that possibility hard to envision. Especially after witnessing Baltimore’s recent performances. This season, Minter’s group ranks 15th in total offense (338.6) and 21st in passing offense (205.1). They rank19th in scoring, averaging 22.4 points per game.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must take advantage of the Baltimore Ravens QB turmoil to secure the AFC North
Without Jackson, Baltimore has relied on Huntley to lead the charge. His familiarity with Baltimore’s offense provides some stability, but his production hasn't reversed the team’s slide. This season, he’s earned 727 passing yards, four touchdowns, and a 57.6 QBR. But his efforts haven’t helped the Ravens climb out of a deep hole.
Things haven’t been all bad in Baltimore. Contributions from Derrick Henry on the ground are helping Declan Doyle’s group stay afloat. They rank sixth in rushing yards per game (133.5) and are tied for fifth in rushing touchdowns (10). The veteran bruiser is the lifeline for the Ravens' offense. But they will need additional assistance.
But could Baltimore’s front office make a call to create an offensive interim spark?
Honestly, they didn’t have a choice.
On Wednesday, Adam Schefter announced that they are finalizing a trade for Jacoby Brissett. He’s a veteran quarterback with plenty of experience and a knack for extending plays. His playing style isn’t as smooth as Lamar Jackson, but it fits Baltimore’s scheme without having to make many adjustments.
According to Tom Pelissero, Baltimore also signed Kedon Slovis to the 53-man roster from the Packers’ practice squad Tuesday morning. He provides Baltimore with an additional option to consider before a Thursday night matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Baltimore’s quarterback crisis couldn’t have arrived at a worse time. The Ravens are already two games behind Pittsburgh and winless in divisional play. Even an emergency quarterback acquisition would leave Declan Doyle with limited time to adjust his offense. Meanwhile, the Steelers have an opportunity to turn a narrow division lead into a commanding advantage before their rivals regain stability.
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