The Baltimore Ravens dropped to eighth place in the NFL power rankings for Week 7 as the absence of Lamar Jackson continued to affect their performance. Despite the recent setback against the Cleveland Browns, Baltimore remains a team that could climb the rankings once its star quarterback returns to action.
The Ravens have played their last two games without Jackson, forcing backup quarterback Tyler Huntley to lead the offense during a difficult stretch. Their latest loss exposed the challenges of operating without Jackson’s dual-threat ability, which typically gives opposing defenses another dimension to consider. While Baltimore still has enough talent to compete with many teams across the league, its offensive production has suffered without its regular starter.
Sunday’s defeat against Cleveland illustrated how quickly the Ravens’ offense can lose momentum when Jackson is unavailable. Huntley helped the team establish some early rhythm, but Baltimore struggled to sustain its production after its opening two possessions. The Browns’ defense took advantage of the offensive slowdown, limiting the Ravens’ opportunities to build a consistent attack and recover from the developing deficit.
Jackson’s absence is particularly significant because of his ability to extend plays with his legs while creating opportunities through the passing game. Defenses must account for his mobility, which can open running lanes and create space for Baltimore’s receivers. Huntley brings experience and familiarity with the system, but replicating Jackson’s overall impact remains a difficult assignment for the backup quarterback.
Baltimore Ravens Drop in NFL Power Rankings Without Lamar Jackson
The Lamar Jackson-led team fell in the power rankings without their star quarterback in Week 6. This can be seen in an analysis by Nick Shook for the NFL’s official website.
I’m sure you’re asking this, and while I hear the criticism, the Ravens have played their last two games with a backup quarterback. Sunday’s defeat was an example of how Baltimore’s offense depends heavily on Lamar Jackson, who likely would have given the Browns’ stingy defense more trouble, whereas the Tyler Huntley-led attack petered out after its first two possessions against Cleveland. I’m not excusing a loss, but I am giving the Ravens a bit of a break. Plus, I still believe they’d likely beat the collection of teams behind them.
Despite the disappointing result, Baltimore’s eighth-place ranking suggests that analysts have not completely abandoned confidence in the team’s potential. The Ravens still possess a roster capable of challenging opponents, and their recent struggles must be considered alongside the circumstances surrounding Jackson’s absence. The distinction between their current performance and their potential with a healthy starting quarterback remains central to evaluating their standing among the league’s contenders.
Ultimately, the Ravens will need greater offensive consistency to prevent further movement down the rankings. Jackson’s eventual return could significantly improve their outlook, but Baltimore must also find ways to remain competitive while he is sidelined. For now, the eighth-place position reflects a team dealing with a major personnel setback rather than one that has necessarily lost its ability to contend.
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