The Baltimore Ravens are starting to look more dominant as the weeks go on. Quarterback Lamar Jackson has been having the most complete season of his career as a passer and a rusher. Not only is Jackson dominating physically, his mental aptitude is something to note. With steady performances seemingly every week, Jackson has made his claim as an MVP front-runner. Luckily, Jackson doesn’t have to do it all on his own. Jackson has more weapons this season than he’s had in years past. Rookie wide receiver Zay Flowers is coming into his own and is quickly earning respect from those around the league. Odell Beckham Jr. is undergoing what can be described as a resurgence. Also, Tight end Isaiah Likely has stepped up big-time since Mark Andrews went down for the season,
Although the Ravens are having success through the air, what they’ve done on the ground is spectacular. As of week 15 in the 2023 season, Baltimore has posted 31 consecutive 100-yard rushing performances stretching back to week 2 of the 2022 season. One of the most obvious reasons for this streak is the legs of Lamar Jackson. Jackson doesn’t deserve all the credit though, as the Ravens have been rushing by committee. Gus Edwards, Justice Hill, and Keaton Mitchell have all done their part to propel Baltimore toward this achievement.
Ravens Rush for 100 Yards in 31 Straight Games
The Baltimore Ravens have rushed for 100 yards in 31 consecutive games, a show of dominance on the ground. This is not a milestone for the Ravens though, as they’ve done this before. Baltimore previously posted a streak of 43 consecutive 100-yard rushing games that ended in week 5 of the 2021 season. The fact that they’ve been able to stay consistent on the ground for years at a time is something to behold. The greatest scrambler of all time, superstar Lamar Jackson continues to dazzle fans with his feet.
Although Jackson isn’t carrying out as many big runs as we’re used to, he’s still being effective. Instead of thinking run first, Jackson is picking his spots more concisely when deciding to take off. Even though Jackson is showing next-level pocket presence, he is still the Ravens’ leading rusher with 741 yards. Jackson will probably lead the team in rushing at the end of the season, something he’s done multiple times; a rare feat for a quarterback.
Rushing By Committee
Aside from Lamar Jackson, Baltimore has had additional help in the backfield. Running back Gus Edwards has been a steady force all season, proving to be a reliable option. Edwards is a strong runner, reminiscent of a third-down back. The difference is- Edwards is an every-down back with a goal-line built frame. The starting back has rushed for over 650 yards on the season and will be relied upon heavily as the playoffs near. Backing up Edwards is Justice Hill, a sleeper in the backfield. Hill gets his fair share of touches and averages about 4.5 yards a carry. Although Hill can run between the tackles, he excels at bouncing it outside for extra yardage.
Lastly, rookie Keaton Mitchell has been a pleasant surprise. Mitchell’s ability to burst through holes, fight through contact, and outrun defenders has been on constant display since he’s been given an opportunity. Mitchell’s rushing totals are higher than Hill’s in far fewer games. Also, Mitchell’s game-high in rushing is higher than Edwards’. Unfortunately, Mitchell suffered a devastating injury in week 15 that’ll see him facing significant recovery time. In the meantime, the other running backs must fill the void that his injury will leave.
Main Photo: Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union-USA TODAY NETWORK
