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Three keys to victory for the Washington Football Team vs. Ravens

By Jacob Troutman

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 27: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns passes while under pressure from defensive tackle Jonathan Allen #93 and defensive end Montez Sweat #90 of the Washington Football Team at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 27, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Browns defeated the Washington Football Team 34-20. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 27: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns passes while under pressure from defensive tackle Jonathan Allen #93 and defensive end Montez Sweat #90 of the Washington Football Team at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 27, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Browns defeated the Washington Football Team 34-20. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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Sep 20, 2020; Houston, Texas, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 20, 2020; Houston, Texas, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 1 – Don’t let Lamar Jackson’s legs beat you

The Ravens have an offense built pretty similarly to the Cleveland Browns. They have a strong stable of backs that they rely heavily on to win games. However, there is one big difference: Lamar Jackson.

The reigning NFL Most Valuable Player is a game wrecker. On any given play, he can make it a house call, whether it’s with his arm or with his legs. Jackson is most effective when he is able to use his elite speed to his advantage. He is a much more accurate passer after getting a rhythm on the ground.

To neutralize the Ravens’ offense, the Chiefs made one thing clear: You have to neutralize Jackson’s ability to make plays with his legs. Force him to stand back in the pocket and throw the ball. Make the running backs beat you. Whatever you do, don’t let Jackson get going on the ground.

On the run-pass options and the straight read options Baltimore runs, the Washington Football Team must almost always commit to a Jackson run. Force him to hand the ball off or make a quick read. Contain him within the pocket.

The No. 1 plan for this Washington defense is to neutralize Lamar Jackson in the run game.

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