Owings Mills, MD – The Baltimore Ravens are once again turning to a backup quarterback as they prepare for Thursday night’s clash with the Jacksonville Jaguars. With starter Lamar Jackson on injured reserve and backup Tyler Huntley also doubtful, rookie Joe Fagnano, the team’s No. 3 quarterback, will take the field.
Fagnano’s sudden promotion
Fagnano, who has seen limited action this season, was thrust into the starting role last weekend after injuries sidelined Jackson and Huntley. He now has just two games in five days, leaving little time for preparation. “Ask my wife. We go through walkthroughs in the living room. She’s reading the plays and stuff,” Fagnano said, noting that his spouse is practically memorizing the playbook alongside him.
Ravens’ offensive challenges
The Ravens have struggled offensively without Jackson’s dual‑threat ability. Their running game has leaned heavily on veteran Derrick Henry, who remains a key weapon. Baltimore hopes Henry can open up play‑action opportunities for Fagnano and keep the Jaguars’ defense honest.
Jaguars enter as AFC South favorites
Jacksonville arrives in Baltimore with a 5‑2 record and a three‑game lead in the AFC South, making them the clear favorite despite the short week. Defensive end Josh Hines‑Allen emphasized the team’s disciplined approach: “We do a great job of not underestimating or overestimating the opponent if something’s going to happen – of not panicking, doing our job.”
Recent Jaguars momentum
The Jaguars have benefited from weakened opponents this season, including a win in London over a Philadelphia squad missing key players. They also defeated Indianapolis 42‑7 last week after the Colts traded away defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and guard Quenton Nelson.
Ravens’ recent struggles at home
Before Jackson’s thumb injury, the Ravens lost five of their last six home games. Defensive lineman Calais Campbell appealed to the fan base for support: “Hopefully the fan base comes out there and gives us an opportunity, gives us a little grace. I think all of us wanted to be better than 4‑4 at this point in time in the season.”
Quarterback depth continues to thin
In addition to Fagnano, the Ravens have Kedon Slovis and Austin Reed listed at quarterback. The team is also in talks to acquire veteran Jacoby Brissett from the Arizona Cardinals, a move that could provide additional stability later in the season.
Key match‑up to watch
The battle in the trenches will be pivotal. Baltimore’s offensive line, already reshaped by injuries, will face Jacksonville’s aggressive defensive front. If Henry can establish the run early, it may open up play‑action passes for Fagnano and relieve pressure on the line.
Statistical snapshot
- Jacksonville (5‑2) at Baltimore (4‑4)
- Game time: Thursday, 8:15 p.m. EST on Prime Video
- Latest odds: Jaguars favored by 10 points
- Recent results: Jaguars beat the Colts 42‑7; Ravens lost to the Bills 36‑10
- Series record: Jaguars lead 13‑11
- Ravens have not been shut out since 2002 – a 395‑game streak of scoring at least one point
The outcome of Thursday’s game could determine whether Baltimore remains in the hunt for a playoff berth or slides further toward a rebuilding season.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
