Jaguars take 10-point lead over Ravens amid quarterback crisis
Baltimore will start Joe Fagnano on Thursday as the team navigates a series of injuries to its starting signal callers.
By James Anderson ·
The Jacksonville Jaguars are projected to defeat the Baltimore Ravens by 10 points on Thursday night, according to betting lines released for the Week 9 matchup. The margin reflects a drastic shift in the Ravens' offensive hierarchy following a week of injuries to their quarterbacks. Baltimore will begin the contest with Joe Fagnano, a player acquired from the Green Bay Packers practice squad. The team also signed Jacoby Brissett, a veteran backup quarterback from the Arizona Cardinals, during the week. Brissett was benched in Arizona before the trade.
The quarterback instability began when Lamar Jackson returned from injury in Week 8. On the first play from scrimmage after his return, Jackson injured his throwing hand. The Ravens turned to Tyler Huntley to lead the offense, but he was sidelined shortly after with a turf toe injury. These injuries left Baltimore without a reliable starter or a healthy backup for the upcoming game against the Jaguars.
Jacksonville enters the game as a clear favorite despite playing on the road. The Jaguars have a strong offensive presence and are expected to maintain an aggressive strategy against a Baltimore defense that must contend with a third-string quarterback. Analysts suggest the Jaguars may run the ball to control the clock, but they could also score a high number of points if the Ravens are forced to pass frequently to keep pace.
Baltimore's offensive playmakers face altered roles due to the quarterback situation. Zay Flowers recorded five targets and no receptions in the previous week against the Buffalo Bills. His prop market odds have adjusted to reflect this, offering better value for bettors expecting him to have five or more catches. Flowers had recorded at least five receptions in every game prior to that loss. The Ravens are expected to target Flowers frequently to create yards after the catch.
Running back Justice Hill is also positioned for an increased role in the passing game. Hill recorded four receptions on eight targets last week while the team trailed. As a safety valve for a quarterback needing options, Hill is expected to see a high volume of targets in this game. His prop line for receptions is set at 2.5.
Wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. of the Jaguars is listed at +550 odds to score an anytime touchdown. Thomas recorded one reception for a touchdown in the previous game. The Jaguars are considering trading Thomas if they receive a suitable offer, making this game a potential final appearance for him before the trade deadline. Coaches may involve him early to showcase his value to potential suitors.
Rookie wide receiver Ja'Kobi Lane of the Ravens is offered at +750 odds for an anytime touchdown. Lane emerged as a standout during training camp and has developed chemistry with Joe Fagnano due to their positions on the depth chart. With the Ravens pass game in disarray, Lane is expected to be a primary target in the short passing game.
