Jackson shows true colours with gesture to Ravens | NFL News

Lamar Jackson stole the show earlier than silencing his own followers’ “MVP” chants during a playoff conquer the Pittsburgh Steelers. In a pivotal AFC North postseason duel at M&T Bank Stadium on Saturday, Jackson led the Baltimore Ravens impressively, linking up properly with star working back Derrick Henry to get the higher of the Steelers defence for a commanding 21-0 halftime benefit.

A flawless 15-yard landing move from Jackson to Rashod Bateman noticed the Ravens drive a mighty 95 yards in 13 performs. Then, after Henry crossed into the tip zone, Jackson continued weaving magic, deftly dodging defenders for a five-yard rating by choosing out Justice Hill expertly.

Despite the Steelers’ valiant attempt at a comeback, it was Henry’s 44-yard landing sprint that solidified a fourth landing for Baltimore.

The exceptional efficiency solely amplified Jackson’s standing as he extremely adopted up his stellar common season, finishing 16 of 21 throws for 175 yards and including two touchdowns plus 81 yards on the ground, breaking the NFL report for many speeding yards by a quarterback in NFL historical past. Even with out the prowess of Pro Bowl receiver Zay Flowers, Jackson was unstoppable, cementing himself because the peerless two-time MVP.

In the midst of the fourth quarter, Ravens followers started to chant ‘MVP’ in honour of Jackson. However, regardless of main 28-14, Jackson was not and gestured for the group to quieten down so he may relay the play call to his group, with head coach John Harbaugh echoing his sentiments.

This second appeared to spotlight Jackson’s concentrate on group success over personal accolades. The 28-year-old is the present holder of the award and will be part of an elite group with a third MVP win; solely Johnny Unitas, Jim Brown, Brett Favre, Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and Aaron Rodgers have received the celebrated award thrice in NFL historical past.

During the common season, Jackson threw for 4,172 yards and 41 touchdowns with simply 4 interceptions. He additionally added 915 speeding yards with 4 scores, placing him on the forefront of the MVP race alongside Buffalo Bills sensation Josh Allen.

Allen ended the season with 3,731 yards and 28 touchdowns with six interceptions on a 63.6 % completion price and a 101.4 score. Both males have been first-round picks within the 2018 NFL Draft and share a rivalry not simply as AFC contenders, however as MVP frontrunners.

Despite his spectacular performances this season, Jackson’s eyes are firmly set on securing his first Lombardi Trophy. The Ravens will face both the Bills or Houston Texans within the Divisional Round subsequent weekend.