Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has long been known for his electrifying play and his composure under pressure. But in the latest 41-40 close loss to the Buffalo Bills, the two-time NFL MVP found himself in an uncharacteristic altercation with a fan that quickly went viral.
Late in the third quarter, Jackson connected with DeAndre Hopkins on a pinpoint 29-yard touchdown pass, one of the highlights of the NFL’s opening weekend. As the Ravens celebrated near the back of the end zone, a Bills fan reached over the barrier and shoved both Hopkins’ and Jackson’s helmets. Jackson reacted instinctively, pushing the fan back before security intervened.
By midweek, Jackson addressed the incident publicly and took accountability for his role. “My apologies to that [person] whoever that was, I don’t know who it was. My apologies to him,” Jackson said after practice. “Just chill next time. You can talk trash and stuff, but keep your hands to yourself. That’s all I can say.”
The moment may have been brief, but it sparked a wave of reactions across the football world, including a nostalgic reference from a rising college star.
How Did Caleb Downs Brings Back the “Big Truzz” Legacy?
Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, one of the brightest young defensive players in college football, couldn’t help but recall a term once tied to Jackson’s leadership in Baltimore: “Big Truzz.”
Lamar Jackson shoved a fan back after a Bills fan shoved him in the helmet after the TD. pic.twitter.com/wr1fq7gdUR
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) September 8, 2025
The nickname, originally coined by running back Mark Ingram during the 2019 season, was shouted proudly at a postgame press conference after Jackson’s MVP-level performance.
“Reminds me of, remember when Mark Ingram was talking about Lamar back in the day? Big Truzz,” Downs said, connecting the viral moment to the quarterback’s enduring reputation.
“Josh Allen and Lamar, I mean, that was the MVP battle last year. First game coming out. Both offenses are performing pretty well, too. I mean, it was good football,” Downs added.
At the time, “Big Truzz” quickly transcended a simple phrase. It became a rallying cry for the Ravens, symbolizing loyalty, trust, and swagger both on and off the field. Fans turned it into hashtags, merchandise, and even stadium chants, while teammates used it as shorthand for the confidence Jackson inspired in the locker room.
For Jackson, “Big Truzz” highlighted the bond he shared with his teammates and the city. For fans, it became a marker of pride, connecting them to one of the most exciting eras in Ravens football. Even years later, its mention sparks instant recognition, proving the cultural staying power of both the phrase and the player behind it.
Downs’ decision to invoke it shows how far Jackson’s influence extends, reaching not just NFL circles but also the rising generation of college football stars.
The Buckeyes enter Week 3 as the No. 1 team in the nation. They are preparing to host Ohio University in a primetime matchup at Ohio Stadium. The kickoff is scheduled for 7 PM ET.
