As the Baltimore Ravens head into the postseason, the pressure is on Lamar Jackson to deliver. Stephen A. Smith, known for his bold takes, stated that Lamar Jackson “better not struggle” in this critical playoff run, especially with a roster that has all the necessary pieces to contend for a championship.
Lamar Jackson’s Big Moment
Lamar Jackson has already established himself as one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the NFL, winning two MVPs and carrying the Ravens offense through numerous seasons. However, his playoff performances have been inconsistent, and Stephen A. believes that this year, Jackson’s playoff record cannot be an excuse. With high expectations surrounding the Ravens, Stephen A. emphasized that Lamar Jackson’s greatness is expected to show up when it matters most.
Stephen A. argued that Lamar Jackson cannot afford to slip in the postseason, considering the immense talent on the roster. He highlighted that with the pieces the Ravens have—particularly the dual-threat ability of Derrick Henry in the backfield and the talent of Mark Andrews—Lamar Jackson has no excuse to falter. Despite the absence of key players like Zay Flowers, the Ravens’ offense is still stacked with capable playmakers, and Jackson needs to take full advantage of them.
The Importance of a Complete Team Effort
While Lamar Jackson is undeniably the leader of the Ravens, Stephen A. made it clear that football is a team sport. The Ravens have a top-tier defense and a running game that can dominate. With these elements in place, there’s no reason why Lamar should struggle in the playoffs, especially given his ability to rise to the occasion during the regular season.
However, there’s a caveat. Lamar Jackson’s history in the playoffs, where he’s only won two out of six games and has struggled with turnovers, has led to growing criticism. If he does not deliver this postseason, Stephen A. believes it could tarnish his legacy as a future Hall of Famer. With the level of talent surrounding him, Lamar cannot afford another lackluster playoff performance.
No Room for Excuses
Stephen A. emphasized that Lamar Jackson’s legacy is on the line. The only way to solidify his place among the NFL elite is by translating regular-season brilliance into postseason success. He pointed out that nearly every two-time MVP in league history has won a Super Bowl. If Lamar Jackson doesn’t get it done now, the conversation around his legacy will only get more complicated.
Despite the absence of Flowers and the usual playoff pressures, Lamar Jackson has enough pieces around him to lead the Ravens to victory. Stephen A. made it clear that there are no more excuses for Lamar Jackson. He has all the tools to succeed, and it’s time to prove he can perform on the grandest stage.
Ravens’ Playoff Chances
Looking ahead, the Ravens face a tough challenge, but Stephen A. believes they have everything they need to make a deep run. With Derrick Henry capable of dominating the ground game, a defense that has stepped up, and Lamar Jackson at quarterback, the Ravens are a dangerous team in the postseason. But it all comes down to one thing: Lamar Jackson’s performance. If he can handle the pressure and deliver the way he’s expected to, the Ravens will be in good shape.
In conclusion, Stephen A. Smith sent a strong message: Lamar Jackson must rise to the occasion this postseason. With everything in place, the time for excuses is over. It’s time for Lamar Jackson to show the world that he can perform when the stakes are highest. If he does, the Ravens could be on their way to a Super Bowl title.
