AFC North First Look: Can Joe Burrow Slow Down Lamar Jackson’s Ravens?
The AFC North is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL, with two of its biggest stars, Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, poised to take center stage. The Cincinnati Bengals, fresh off consecutive playoff appearances, are led by Burrow, while the Baltimore Ravens are driven by the dynamic play of Jackson. As the 2024 season heats up, one of the key questions is whether Burrow can continue his success against a Ravens team that seems retooled and re-energized behind Jackson.
Burrow vs. Jackson: A High-Stakes Rivalry
Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson represent two contrasting styles of quarterback play. Burrow, known for his precision passing and calm demeanor, has elevated the Bengals into Super Bowl contention with his ability to read defenses and make clutch throws. His chemistry with top receivers like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins has been a cornerstone of Cincinnati’s success.
On the other hand, Lamar Jackson is one of the most electrifying playmakers in the NFL. The 2019 MVP is a dual-threat quarterback, capable of turning any play into a big gain with his legs or his arm. After signing a new contract in 2023, Jackson is playing with renewed confidence, and the Ravens have upgraded his receiving corps, giving him more weapons to exploit defenses.
Bengals Defense: The Key to Slowing Down Jackson?
If the Bengals want to slow down Lamar Jackson, it will largely come down to their defense, particularly their ability to contain his mobility. Jackson has had success running against Cincinnati in the past, using his agility to evade defenders and extend plays. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo will need to devise a game plan that emphasizes disciplined gap control and spying Jackson with athletic linebackers like Logan Wilson or safeties like Dax Hill.
Cincinnati’s pass rush, anchored by Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard, will also need to generate consistent pressure while keeping Jackson inside the pocket. If they can disrupt Jackson’s timing and force him to make throws under duress, they may limit his big-play potential.
Burrow’s Offense: Can They Solve the Ravens’ Defense?
While much of the focus will be on how Cincinnati handles Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow has his own challenge in solving a tough Baltimore defense. The Ravens are known for their aggressive blitz packages and physical secondary, led by Marlon Humphrey and Marcus Williams. Burrow’s quick decision-making and accuracy will be put to the test as Baltimore looks to pressure him early and often.
The Bengals’ offensive line, which has been improved since Burrow’s rookie season, will have to hold up against the Ravens’ front seven. Players like Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Queen could pose problems if the line doesn’t protect Burrow adequately. But Burrow has shown an uncanny ability to stay cool under pressure, and with Chase and Higgins as his primary targets, the Bengals can stretch the Ravens’ defense vertically and horizontally.
What’s at Stake?
Both the Bengals and Ravens have their eyes set on more than just division titles—they’re aiming for Super Bowl glory. For Cincinnati, a win against Baltimore early in the season would be a huge step toward securing their third straight AFC North title. For Baltimore, knocking off the Bengals would signal that they are legitimate contenders again, especially after dealing with key injuries and playoff disappointments in recent years.
Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson are two of the most compelling quarterbacks in the NFL, and whenever these two meet, fireworks are guaranteed. But can Burrow slow down Jackson’s Ravens? It will take a complete team effort, from controlling Jackson’s mobility to exploiting Baltimore’s defense. However, if there’s one thing Burrow has proven, it’s that he thrives under pressure. Expect these matchups to be must-watch battles with major AFC implications.
As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, the Burrow-Jackson rivalry is one to watch in the AFC North. While Joe Burrow has been one of the hottest quarterbacks in the league, Lamar Jackson’s Ravens are always a threat, especially with Jackson’s unique skill set. Whether the Bengals can slow down the Ravens will come down to how well Cincinnati contains Jackson and whether Burrow can solve Baltimore’s defense. Either way, the AFC North is once again living up to its reputation as one of the toughest divisions in football.
