This season, the Seattle Seahawks are facing a number of quarterbacks similar to Russell Wilson. Seattle has already Kyler Murray and will do so again in December. If Murray is Wilson’s clone, then perhaps Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is sort of an off-brand version.
That’s not meant to disparage the second-year signal-caller, as Jackson has proven himself more than capable of being a franchise-caliber player. What it means, however, is Jackson is a faster, more mobile, slightly less accurate quarterback than Wilson . . . yet just as deadly for defenses.
It hasn’t been easy for the former Heisman Trophy winner. There was plenty of skepticism of Jackson entering the league due to his slight frame. Many questioned whether he should transition to wide receiver. Instead, Jackson stayed the course at quarterback, and it has proved to be the smart decision.
In his second year, Jackson has guided the Ravens to a 4-2 record and first place in the AFC North as they attempt to repeat as division champions. He has greatly improved in every facet of his game — most notably his completion rate, which has increased from 58% a year ago to 65% this season. His attempts per game as a starter have skyrocketed from 22.5 to 32.5.
That is truly remarkable and defeats the narrative that he is only a running quarterback incapable of consistently throwing the football.
Make no mistake — Jackson is still lethal when he runs. His speed and quickness make it near impossible for defenders to stop him when he takes off running. This could be a considerable problem for a Seahawks pass rush that has failed to make an impact over the last couple of weeks.
While Jackson has certainly improved greatly as a player, he is still beset by one nagging issue which all young quarterbacks face — turnovers. In the last three weeks, Jackson has thrown four touchdowns against five interceptions. The Seahawks have benefited greatly at forcing turnovers from young quarterbacks this year and may have to do it again in order to improve to 6-1.
