Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Why Lamar Jackson is primed for big Week 1

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 9/7/23

There are high expectations for the Ravens and QB Lamar Jackson in 2023. Here are three reasons why the 2019 NFL MVP will get off to a hot start in Week 1.

History repeats itself

Jackson has been very impressive in his four career season openers, posting a quarterback rating of 82.7, which ranks only second to Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes' (90.5). He has thrown for 12 touchdowns and just one interception in the four matchups.

In season openers, Lamar Jackson's 82.7 Total QBR ranks 2nd to Patrick Mahomes (90.5).

In Week 1, Jackson has thrown 12 TDs and 1 INT:

2019 (at MIA): 5 TDs, 0 INT
2020 (vs. CLE): 3 TDs, 0 INT
2021 (at LV): 1 TD, 0 INT
2022 (at NYJ): 3 TDs, 1 INT

Jackson plays Texans on Sunday.
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) September 5, 2023

Believe it or not, Baltimore isn't undefeated in the four games but still boasts a 3-1 record. Jackson will do his best to make it 4-1 on Sunday.

New-look offense

The Ravens offense is one of the biggest mysteries heading into the 2023 season, but the team is certainly expecting good results after a busy offseason. Baltimore signed former first-round wide receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Nelson Agholor in free agency and drafted WR Zay Flowers in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

However, maybe more importantly, the Ravens have a new offensive coordinator in Todd Monken, who is bringing a heavier pass approach compared to the run-first mindset Baltimore has had the past few years. The team didn't have a receiver eclipse 500 yards in 2022. It would be very surprising if that were to happen again.

Texans defense

The Ravens can't control who is on their schedule, but they are certainly benefactors in Week 1 as they host the Texans, who finished 3-13-1 in 2022. Of course, Houston's 2023 roster isn't the same as the one a season ago, but it is still one that is in the process of rebuilding.

Baltimore will look to take full advantage of the young team that allowed the third-most total yards per game in 2022 (379.5). There are no excuses for Jackson, who is set up for success in Week 1.

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