The Baltimore Ravens are set for a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. With major playoff implications on the line and Lamar Jackson’s availability still in question, Tyler Huntley is likely to get the start. However, even if Jackson were healthy enough to play, an NFL analyst has stated that he would still prefer Huntley over the two-time MVP and also explained why.
Eric Mangini Shares Why He Would Choose Tyler Huntley Over Lamar Jackson Against the Packers
In the Week 16 loss to the New England Patriots, Jackson exited Sunday Night Football in the second quarter after suffering a back injury. Huntley, a former undrafted free agent who spent the first four years of his career in Baltimore as Jackson’s backup, stepped in to replace him.
The 28–24 loss put the Ravens in a tough position. Not only do they need to win their final two regular-season games, but they also need the Pittsburgh Steelers to lose to the Cleveland Browns on Saturday to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Ahead of the must-win game against Green Bay, Jackson has missed practice this week and is currently listed as doubtful for the matchup. Amid the uncertainty surrounding his injury and availability against the Packers, former New York Jets head coach Eric Mangini shared his thoughts on the Ravens’ quarterback situation.
While speaking on First Things First, Mangini highlighted Huntley’s strong performances against Green Bay in the past and explained why he believes Huntley gives the Ravens a better chance to win.
“In terms of this game, though, I actually think Tyler Huntley gives them a better chance to win the game,” Mangini said. “And here’s why, he has had over a 100 quarterback rating in the four games he’s played, and the last time the Ravens played Green Bay, Tyler Huntley had four touchdowns. He threw for two and ran for two, and they were a two-point conversion away from winning that game.”
Jackson’s status is not only uncertain for Saturday night’s game, but there are also questions about his future with the franchise, following recent reports suggesting tension between him and the team.
If Jackson is unable to suit up against the Packers, which appears likely, Huntley will once again lead the offense. It will be interesting to see whether he can guide the Ravens to a victory and keep their playoff hopes alive. Baltimore currently has an 8.3% chance of making the postseason, according to PFSN’s NFL Playoff Meter.
