Jaguars Look to Extend AFC South Lead Against Injury Ravaged Ravens on Thursday Night Football

Thursday at 8:15 p.m. on Prime Video at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore

The Jacksonville Jaguars head to Baltimore looking to strengthen their grip on the AFC South when they face the Ravens in a Week 9 Thursday Night Football matchup. Jacksonville (5-2) enters the contest riding high after a dominant victory over Indianapolis, while Baltimore (4-4) is desperately trying to keep its season from unraveling amid a growing list of injuries, particularly at quarterback.

The Ravens will turn to an unlikely starter in rookie quarterback Joe Fagnano, who was thrust into action last weekend after injuries sidelined both Lamar Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley. Fagnano, Baltimore’s third-string quarterback, is now preparing for his first start as the Ravens attempt to avoid another damaging loss.

Baltimore is also finalizing a trade with the Arizona Cardinals for veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett. Brissett is expected to provide veteran stability and could take over as the starter when Baltimore returns to action against the Los Angeles Chargers on Nov. 15. Jacksonville, meanwhile, finds itself in an increasingly comfortable position atop the AFC South. The Jaguars hold a three-game division lead and enter Thursday’s matchup as a significant road favorite, despite playing on a short week.

Jaguars Look to Capitalize on Baltimore’s Struggles

This matchup might have looked considerably more challenging when the schedule was released, but circumstances have changed dramatically for both teams. Jacksonville has taken advantage of favorable circumstances against several opponents this season. The Jaguars defeated Philadelphia in London last month, facing an Eagles team missing running back Saquon Barkley, leading receiver DeVonta Smith and pass rusher Jonathan Greenard. The Eagles were also dealing with significant offensive line changes following Lane Johnson’s abrupt retirement and the trade of center Cam Jurgens to Baltimore.

Last week, Jacksonville delivered another impressive performance, dominating the Indianapolis Colts 42-7. The Colts had previously traded two of their top players, defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and guard Quenton Nelson, further weakening their roster before facing the Jaguars. Now, Jacksonville faces a Baltimore team dealing with considerably bigger problems. The Ravens suffered a 36-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills last weekend, and the quarterback situation has become a major concern. Jackson left the game with a thumb injury, and he is expected to be placed on injured reserve.

Huntley could also be headed to injured reserve, leaving Baltimore dangerously thin at the position. Beyond Fagnano, who has been dealing with an ankle injury of his own, the Ravens have Kedon Slovis and Austin Reed available at quarterback. The uncertainty surrounding Baltimore’s quarterback situation could also affect the atmosphere at M&T Bank Stadium. Ravens fans have endured a disappointing stretch, with the team losing five of its last six home games even before Jackson’s latest injury.

Matchup to Watch: Ravens’ Offensive Line vs. Jaguars’ Defensive Front

With an inexperienced quarterback expected to make his first start, Baltimore will likely look to establish its running game and take pressure off Fagnano. That puts the spotlight on running back Derrick Henry and the Ravens’ offensive line, which has undergone numerous injury-related changes since the beginning of the season.

Baltimore’s running game has struggled without Jackson’s dual-threat ability, making Henry’s production even more important. The Ravens will need to create running lanes, control the line of scrimmage and keep Jacksonville’s defensive front from consistently disrupting the offense.

The Jaguars will look to take advantage of Baltimore’s offensive line issues, pressure Fagnano and force the Ravens into difficult passing situations. If Jacksonville can shut down Henry and make Baltimore rely on its inexperienced quarterbacks, the visitors could have a significant advantage.

Jacksonville Has an Opportunity to Make a Statement

The Jaguars enter Thursday’s contest with an opportunity to extend their division advantage and strengthen their position in the AFC playoff race. Baltimore, on the other hand, is facing an increasingly difficult situation. With Jackson sidelined, Huntley’s status uncertain and Fagnano preparing to lead the offense, the Ravens will need an exceptional team effort to compete against a Jacksonville squad coming off a convincing division victory.

The biggest question is whether Baltimore can find enough offensive production to keep pace with the Jaguars. If Henry can establish the running game and the Ravens’ defense can create turnovers, Baltimore could make things interesting.

However, Jacksonville appears to have the advantage entering Thursday night. Against a Baltimore team struggling with injuries and searching for answers at quarterback, the Jaguars have a prime opportunity to leave Baltimore with another important victory.

Facts to Know About the Jaguars vs. Ravens

Last week: Jaguars defeated the Colts 42-7; Ravens lost to the Bills 36-10. Last meeting: Baltimore defeated Jacksonville 23-7 on Dec. 17, 2023, in Jacksonville. All-time series: Jaguars lead 13-11.