By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Watch the video above for some of Patriots linebacker Kyle Van Noy’s thoughts on preparing for the Baltimore Ravens and quarterback Lamar Jackson. It’s safe to say that Jackson and the Ravens offense are unlike any other team the Pats defense has faced in 2019.
“We’re going to try our best. It’s going to take all 11 of us, that’s for sure,” said Van Noy. “He’s a special player. I mean, he’s got 500-plus yards [rushing] already, I believe. And he’s done a really good job just commanding the offense and being a good leader. We’re going to try our best to stop him.”
Jackson has emerged as the most dangerous running threat at quarterback in the NFL, averaging 6.9 yards per carry. He has 576 yards on 83 attempts, to be exact. He’s still not a dominant passer; since posting a perfect 158.3 passer rating in Week 1, he’s compiled an 80.8 rating in six games since.
Van Noy specifically mentioned Jackson’s production on the ground, so clearly that will be a point of emphasis for the Patriots in containing him on Sunday night. If they can take away that threat, it’ll be much harder for Jackson to move the ball than it’s been against other defenses.
The Ravens lead the NFL with 1,429 total rushing yards. That’s 204.1 per game, which is also the best mark in the league by 23 yards.
Thanks to that dominant running game, the Ravens are eighth in the league in total offense. For a Patriots defense that just gave up 7.2 yards per carry against the Browns, it’s quite the test. Van Noy’s ability to set the edge will be one of many key components in limiting Jackson and the Ravens, especially on the ground.
And to be fair to the Patriots, Jackson hasn’t faced a defense like theirs either.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.