Ravens 41-17 Browns: Lamar Jackson 4-TD Performance Solidifies MVP Co-Favorite Status
The Baltimore Ravens delivered a dominant 41-17 victory over the Cleveland Browns, led by Lamar Jackson's spectacular 4-touchdown performance that has solidified his position as a co-favorite for MVP.
Game Summary
The Baltimore Ravens dominated the Cleveland Browns 41-17 in a game that showcased Lamar Jackson's MVP-caliber talent. Jackson threw 4 touchdowns and led the Ravens to a convincing victory that has solidified his position as a co-favorite for the MVP award.
Lamar Jackson's MVP Performance
Jackson's Week 2 Stats
Passing Yards
287
Touchdowns
4
Completion %
72.4%
Passer Rating
118.7
Lamar Jackson was absolutely dominant against the Browns, completing 21 of 29 passes for 287 yards and 4 touchdowns. His 72.4% completion percentage and 118.7 passer rating were both elite-level performances that showcased his precision and decision-making. This was Jackson's first 4-touchdown game since Week 1 of the 2024 season.
What made this performance even more impressive was Jackson's ability to spread the ball around. He connected with multiple receivers for touchdowns, including DeAndre Hopkins on another acrobatic score, showing his ability to make every receiver on the field a threat.
Key Moment: Jackson's 35-yard touchdown pass to DeAndre Hopkins in the third quarter was a perfect example of his arm talent and accuracy, dropping the ball perfectly over the defender's shoulder.
Ravens Defense: Dominant Performance
Defensive Standouts
The Ravens defense was equally impressive, holding the Browns to just 17 points and 267 total yards. Roquan Smith was all over the field, racking up three tackles for loss and a fumble recovery for a touchdown that essentially sealed the game.
The defense's ability to create turnovers and pressure the quarterback was crucial to the Ravens' success. They forced 3 turnovers and recorded 4 sacks, making life difficult for the Browns' offense all game long.
Defensive Note: The Ravens' defense has now held opponents to 17 points or fewer in both games this season, showing their elite level of play on that side of the ball.
Lamar Jackson's MVP Case
Strengths
- Elite Passing: 4 TDs, 72.4% completion
- Dual Threat: Can beat teams with arm and legs
- Team Success: Ravens are 1-1 with strong offense
- Consistency: Strong performance after Week 1
- Leadership: Commands respect in locker room
Opportunities
- AFC North: Competitive division
- Offensive Weapons: Elite receiving corps
- Coaching: Todd Monken's elite play-calling
- Schedule: Favorable remaining matchups
- Narrative: Comeback story from Week 1
Jackson's MVP case is built on more than just statistics. His ability to lead the Ravens to a dominant victory after their Week 1 loss to the Bills shows his resilience and leadership. The Ravens' offensive success is directly tied to Jackson's performance, which is exactly what MVP voters look for.
The Ravens' 1-1 record might seem like a weakness, but their offensive explosion against the Browns shows they have the firepower to compete with anyone. If Jackson can maintain this level of play and lead the Ravens to the AFC North title, he'll have a strong case for MVP.
Comparing Jackson to Other MVP Candidates
| Player | Team | Week 2 Stats | MVP Odds | Team Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lamar Jackson | Baltimore Ravens | 287 yds, 4 TD | +300 | 1-1 |
| Josh Allen | Buffalo Bills | 148 yds, 0 TD | +300 | 2-0 |
| Jordan Love | Green Bay Packers | Strong performance | +700 | 2-0 |
| Justin Herbert | Los Angeles Chargers | TBD Monday | +1200 | 1-0 |
Jackson's +300 odds put him in the top tier of MVP candidates, tied with Josh Allen as co-favorites. His Week 2 performance was arguably more impressive than what we've seen from the other top candidates, and he has the opportunity to build on that momentum.
The key for Jackson will be maintaining this level of play throughout the season. If he can lead the Ravens to the AFC North title and put up consistent elite statistics, he could easily separate himself from the other co-favorite and become the clear MVP favorite.
What This Means for the Ravens
Season Outlook
The Ravens' dominant victory over the Browns has restored confidence in their ability to compete at the highest level. After their Week 1 loss to the Bills, there were questions about whether they could bounce back, but this performance answered those questions definitively.
The Ravens now have a clear path to the AFC North title. With the Bengals struggling due to Joe Burrow's injury and the Browns and Steelers having their own issues, the division is wide open. If Jackson can maintain this level of play, the Ravens could easily win the division and make a deep playoff run.
Browns' Struggles Continue
Browns' Issues
The Browns' struggles continued against the Ravens, as they were completely overwhelmed on both sides of the ball. Joe Flacco struggled to find any rhythm against his old friends in Baltimore, tossing a head-scratching pick to Nate Wiggins.
The Browns' offensive line was also a major issue, allowing 4 sacks and failing to protect Flacco. This made it nearly impossible for the Browns to establish any offensive rhythm, and they were never really in the game after the first quarter.
Betting Analysis
Jackson MVP Odds Value
At +300, Jackson represents fair value for MVP bettors. His Week 2 performance showed he has the talent to compete with the elite quarterbacks, and the Ravens' favorable schedule gives him opportunities to build his case.
If Jackson can lead the Ravens to the AFC North title and put up strong statistics, he could easily become the clear MVP favorite. The +300 odds offer solid value for a player with his upside.
Conclusion
The Ravens' 41-17 victory over the Browns was a statement game that showcased Lamar Jackson's MVP-caliber talent. Jackson's 4-touchdown performance was one of the most impressive individual performances of the season so far.
Jackson's +300 MVP odds put him in the top tier of candidates, and his Week 2 performance shows he has the talent to compete with the elite quarterbacks. If he can maintain this level of play and lead the Ravens to the AFC North title, he could easily become the clear MVP favorite.
The Ravens are back to their explosive form, and Jackson is leading the charge. This could be the start of a special season for both the team and their quarterback. The AFC North is wide open, and the Ravens have the firepower to take control of the division.