ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky delivered a bold statement this week. He suggests the Baltimore Ravens are favorites against the Pittsburgh Steelers in their critical Week 18 matchup. Importantly, his prediction remains true even if star quarterback Lamar Jackson cannot play. Jackson is dealing with a back contusion but is expected to practice Wednesday. Head Coach John Harbaugh confirmed Jackson will play if fully healthy. Nevertheless, Baltimore has a contingency plan in place.
The Henry Factor: A Guaranteed Win Formula
Orlovsky’s confidence hinges entirely on running back Derrick Henry. After all, Henry delivered a historic performance last week. He posted 216 rushing yards and four touchdowns against the Green Bay Packers. That dominant outing kept Baltimore’s playoff hopes alive.
“Here comes Derrick Henry 35 times,” Orlovsky declared. Furthermore, he emphasized feeding the veteran back. The analyst suggested using big fullback Patrick Ricard and tight ends to pound the ball. Consequently, this run-heavy approach neutralizes the opponent.
Orlovsky showed respect for Jackson, calling him “unbelievable.” However, he asserted, “They don’t need Lamar to win this football game.” Clearly, the strategy is simple: run the ball repeatedly. NFL Hall of Famer Rod Woodson agrees Tyler Huntley is capable. Huntley has guided the Ravens to two key victories over winning teams this season.
Huntley’s Proven Capability
Huntley is more than just a placeholder. He efficiently led the offense in victories against the Chicago Bears and the aforementioned Packers. Woodson, who understands the fierce Ravens-Steelers rivalry, highlighted Huntley’s poise. “He knows how to win and he knows how to play under that system,” Woodson said on ESPN’s “The Rich Eisen Show.” Huntley’s style, moreover, is compared to a “young Lamar.”
Sports Illustrated’s Josh Reed suggests starting Huntley if Jackson is compromised. Reed believes an uncompromised Huntley is more dangerous than an injured Jackson. Specifically, Huntley’s athleticism aids the run game in a profound way.
AFC North Showdown: Playoff Implications
This Sunday night game essentially determines the winner of the AFC North championship. The Ravens’ resilience under Harbaugh is certainly notable this year. Luke Jones from Baltimore Positive praised the team’s ability to thrive despite adversity. He noted their impressive win in Green Bay, specifically.
Ultimately, the focus remains on Jackson’s back. But King Henry’s presence offers a clear route to triumph. Simply committing to the run game will secure the Ravens’ postseason ticket. The Steelers’ defense will face a bruising, relentless attack. Therefore, this strategic shift makes the Ravens a dangerous team.
