Bill Belichick described the ‘problem’ that is Lamar Jackson
"Catching him is an issue."
Following their 27-13 win over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, the 8-0 Patriots prepare for what may be their biggest test of the season, the Baltimore Ravens.
The Ravens are led by second-year starter Lamar Jackson, and when asked during a media conference call Monday, Bill Belichick expressed his concern over Jackson’s ability.
“He’s a problem. He’s definitely a problem. He leads the team in rushing, or he did,” Belichick said. “He and [Mark] Ingram are right kind of there together, so it’s definitely a challenge.”
Jackson, who does, in fact, lead the Ravens in rushing with 576 yards, has been dynamic for Baltimore this year, leading them to a 5-2 record. Belichick believes what makes Jackson so dynamic is his speed.
“He’s very fast and he’s definitely a hard guy to handle,” Belichick said. “He’s fast and that’s really a big problem. A lot of times he just outruns people. I mean, he’s got good moves, too. I’m not saying that, but a lot of times he just outruns people with his speed.
“Catching him is an issue, especially when he keeps the ball. A lot of times he’s running against a defensive end and the ends just aren’t fast enough.”
Jackson may be dangerous on the ground, but he’s had a good year passing the ball too. Jackson has racked up 1,650 yards passing to go along with 11 touchdowns on a 63.3 completion percentage.
The Patriots and Ravens will match up this Sunday night at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
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