Lamar Jackson’s exceptional performance in the Baltimore Ravens’ 35-14 victory over the New York Giants has become routine for his teammates. Offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley, for instance, is no longer surprised by Jackson’s ability to throw multiple touchdown passes in a game. However, Jackson’s latest feat—throwing five touchdown passes—was historic, making it the seventh time he has achieved this remarkable feat with as many or fewer incompletions than touchdowns. This broke the previous record of six such games held by Peyton Manning and Drew Brees.
Jackson’s performance against the Giants was nothing short of spectacular. He completed 21 of 25 passes, or 84%, for 290 yards, with touchdowns thrown from distances of 13, 49, 20, 21, and 27 yards. Despite an early mistake where he fumbled the ball on a run in the first quarter, Jackson rebounded in a big way, leading the Ravens to five consecutive touchdown drives. His performance was not just efficient but also historically significant, as he tied Patrick Mahomes for the most games with five touchdown passes in a player’s first 100 games in NFL history.
Pro Bowl linebacker Roquan Smith praised Jackson for evolving his playing style. While Jackson has always been known for his dual-threat ability, Smith noted that Jackson is now playing a more traditional pocket-passing game, with his ability to run only coming into play when necessary. This shift in Jackson’s game has been widely recognized by his teammates, and his performances are now being viewed as extraordinary even by those accustomed to his previous successes.
Jackson’s passing game was especially impressive when he had time to throw. When not under pressure, he completed 17 of 18 passes for 210 yards and four touchdowns, showing off his deep-ball accuracy. He also had a career-best performance on throws of at least 10 yards, completing 7 of 9 attempts for 155 yards and four touchdowns. Jackson’s ability to make deep throws was anticipated based on the Giants’ defensive schemes, and he executed perfectly, aided by solid protection from the offensive line.
With 34 touchdown passes and only three interceptions this season, Jackson is on track for another MVP-worthy campaign. He has joined the ranks of Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady as the only quarterbacks in NFL history to throw 30 or more touchdowns with fewer than five interceptions through 14 games. This stellar performance has not only solidified his place as one of the league’s top quarterbacks but also placed the Ravens in a strong position heading into their next game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. With a win, the Ravens could tie the Steelers for first place in the AFC North, but a loss would hand the division title to Pittsburgh. Jackson is focused on the challenge, eager to continue his strong play and improve his record against the Steelers.
